PCSA Advocates for Structural Reform of Domestic Maritime Governance

The Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association, Inc. (PCSA) convened its General Membership Meeting at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu City on October 10, 2025, focusing on the theme “Working Towards a Better Domestic Maritime Governance.” The meeting, chaired by Mr. Lucio E. Lim, Jr., addressed critical challenges, including regulatory constraints, a deficit in qualified crew, and safety concerns within the nation's coastwise shipping sector.

The primary outcome of the meeting was the PCSA’s formal request for a significant reorganization of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina). The proposal advocates for the division of Marina into two distinct entities to govern the international and domestic maritime sectors separately.

Mr. Lucio E. Lim, Jr., Chairman of PCSA

Additionally, the PCSA strongly recommended that Marina revise its seafarer competency standards. The association proposes reducing the current emphasis on the four-year academic degree requirement and prioritizing the assessment of hands-on, practical experience to expand the pool of eligible captains and officers. Mr. Lim indicated that this proposal is endorsed by Senator Panfilo Lacson and aligns with the successful independent governance models utilized in Australia and Japan. The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong collaborative relationship between the PCSA and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on matters of maritime safety and policy.