Marina welcomes CMA CGM Philippines

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) welcomed CMA CGM Philippines Shipping (CCPS) as the first 100 percent foreign-owned shipping company registered in the country.

Operating under its flagship intra-Asia brand CNC, CCPS aims to enhance domestic shipping services. The CNC Pilipinas, the first Philippine-flagged vessel in the CMA CGM fleet, is designed to carry 1,037 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and will operate weekly on the Luzon Visayas Mindanao Express (LVMX) route, connecting Manila-Cagayan de Oro- Cebu-Manila.

Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan emphasized the importance of the recent amendment to Republic Act 11659, also known as the Public Service Act, which allows for 100 percent foreign ownership in the maritime sector. This landmark development is expected to attract more investments, enhance competition, and ultimately improve the shipping industry in the Philippines.

Transportation Undersecretary for Maritime Elmer Sarmiento and Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan were guests of honor during the launching ceremony of CMA-CGM Philippines Shipping. PHOTO from Marina

The entry of CMA CGM is anticipated to bring larger, greener and safer vessels to the domestic market. She expressed optimism that this would create more job opportunities for Filipino seafarers while reducing transportation costs for consumers.

Undersecretary for Maritime Elmer Francisco Sarmiento highlighted the government's focus on safety, decarbonization, and innovation through digitalization. This commitment aligns with the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.

Sarmiento emphasized that safety remains the top priority and expressed confidence that CCPS will play a crucial role in promoting a culture of safety and environmentally friendly shipping practices in the Philippines.

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The event also featured notable attendees, including CMA CGM Asia Pacific CEO Bo Wegener, CNC CEO Steven Zhu, and French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, who were present to witness the launch of this significant initiative.