Davao City: The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have reinforced their partnership to enhance maritime safety and security during the 3rd MARINA-PCG Forum held in Davao City on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan highlighted the significance of sustained collaboration between the two agencies' implementing and enforcement units. The forum underscored the objective of ensuring safer and more efficient sea voyages, prioritizing maritime safety standards through open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual trust.

With the theme 'Breaking Barriers and Harnessing the Power of Collaboration for Greater Achievements,' the forum provided a platform for MARINA and PCG to deliberate on information sharing, digitalization, and effective policy implementation and enforcement in the maritime industry. Key discussions revolved around policy harmonization, maritime safety, and regulatory streamlining to improve industry efficiency and security.

MARINA presented updates on its recent policies, while PCG addressed redundant policies, rules, and regulations. A notable development from the event was the decision to include the Bangsamoro Maritime Industry Authority (BMARINA) as a regular forum member. Malaluan remarked that BMARINA's inclusion contributed to a truly harmonized and uniform implementation and enforcement of maritime regulations.

To further enhance collaboration towards a progressive, efficient, and unified maritime sector, all participating agencies agreed to institutionalize the forum as a quarterly event.