The Philippines has been re-elected to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), reaffirming its role in global shipping and its commitment to the welfare of seafarers.
IMO is the United Nations specialized agency, sets international standards for the safety, security, and environmental performance of vessels. The Philippines secured its seat during a vote by 176 member states at the 34th IMO Assembly in London, a move officials described renewed global confidence in the country’s maritime sector. Filipinos make up about a quarter of the global seafaring workforce, with more than half a million serving on commercial vessels worldwide.
Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr., the Philippines’ permanent representative to the IMO, presented the country’s bid by underscoring its experience as a major labor supplier to the global fleet. “The Philippines offers not only its membership to the Council, but its vision of a maritime world safer, more sustainable, and more equitable for all, anchored in steadfast commitment to multilateralism,” he told the Assembly.
The country has been an IMO member since 1964 and has served on the Council since 1997. Locsin highlighted the its continued work in maritime safety, security, search and rescue, and environmental protection. He noted that one in every five seafarers worldwide is Filipino, giving the Philippines a unique perspective on policies affecting workers at sea.
“We renew our unwavering commitment to ensure that the seas that connect us are seas of safety, sustainability, and shared prosperity,” he said, adding that the Philippines’ approach is shaped by both its vulnerabilities and its aspirations for a stronger maritime future.
Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia Malaluan said the election reinforces the country’s mandate to champion seafarers’ rights. “We are all glad to have again joined the IMO Council — a sign of the Philippines’ leadership in maritime,” she said. “It means a louder voice for seafarers, their rights, safety, and well-being. We raised the flag.”
Officials noted that the re-election comes as the global maritime sector undergoes rapid change driven by digitalization, automation and decarbonization. The Philippines will continue to push for seafarer welfare under the Manila Declaration of 2025 and support efforts toward greener shipping consistent with international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary for Maritime Villamor Ventura Plan commended the delegation, citing the coordinated work of MARINA and the Philippine Embassy in London.
The 40-member IMO Council serves two-year terms. The newly-elected body will convene on Dec, 4 for its 136th session to choose its chair and vice chair for the next biennium.
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