Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday engaged with executives from Japan's Tsuneishi Holdings Corporation to deliberate on the strategic alliance between the Philippines and Japan concerning sustainable shipbuilding and industrial growth. In a Facebook post following the meeting, Marcos highlighted the Japanese shipbuilder's inaugural methanol dual-fueled KAMSARMAX bulk carrier at a Cebu facility, describing it as a 'game changer for clean and smart shipping.'
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos expressed that 'The future of shipbuilding is taking shape in the Philippines,' emphasizing the achievements possible through innovation, robust partnerships, and the talented Filipino workforce. He lauded the project as a 'technological breakthrough' and a symbol of the collaborative potential between the Philippines and Japan, as stated by the Presidential Communications Office.
Tsuneishi Holdings Corporation, in a statement on their website, noted that they completed the first block loading for KAMSARMAX on April 21 this year. The company described the methanol-fueled vessel as a novel type combining environmental performance with economic benefits, adhering to environmental, social, and governance principles. The vessel incorporates innovative eco-friendly technologies designed to maintain and enhance the vessel's lifetime value.
The vessel is anticipated to be launched in July 2025 with a delivery date set for January 2026. As one of the world's leading shipbuilders, Tsuneishi has played a pivotal role in the global maritime industry since 1917, commanding a significant portion of the medium-sized bulk carriers market.
Specializing in bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers, Tsuneishi operates shipyards in the Philippines, Japan, and China, along with business offices throughout Asia and Europe. To further solidify its presence in the Philippines, Tsuneishi is advancing into the fifth phase of expansion at its shipyard in Balamban, Cebu, which includes investments in new capital equipment and enhanced research and development capabilities.
