Manila: Measures advocated by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) towards boosting the shipbuilding industry and the rest of the country's maritime sector are gaining support from the House of Representatives. MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan met with members of the House on Monday to present their priority bills, particularly the proposal to enhance the Philippine shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) sector and expand the Philippine ship registry.

According to Philippines News Agency, Oriental Mindoro 1st District Rep. Arnan Panaligan backed MARINA's legislative measures. He expressed optimism about the potential economic benefits of a developed shipbuilding industry. Panaligan highlighted his previous filing of House Bill 00134, titled An Act Promoting the Development of the Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Industry, which aims to reform government policies towards shipbuilding and ship repair in the Philippines.

Panaligan also emphasized the importance of the SBSR sector working alongside the domestic steel industry, having authored the Integrated Iron and Steel Industry Development bill. This bill seeks to establish the National Steel Development Authority, which could accelerate the growth of an integrated steel industry.

Meanwhile, Senior Citizens Party-list Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes noted the job creation potential of the proposed legislation. He expressed confidence in its capacity to help many citizens find employment. Ordanes also pledged support to MARINA for its upcoming budget deliberations, particularly in securing funding for new Plantilla (permanent) positions to implement Republic Act 12021 or the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers.