The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has requested the French Embassy in the Philippines to extend the deployment of a French maritime expert Emeric Faure. Faure has been instrumental in providing technical assistance to MARINA on various projects, including enhancing safety standards for roll-on/roll-off passengers (ROPAX) vessels. The appeal for an extension was presented during a meeting between French Ambassador Marie Fontanel and MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan on January 23, MARINA said in a statement. In November 2022, MARINA and the French Embassy entered into a memorandum of agreement focused on bolstering maritime safety and security in the Philippines, specifically within the shipbuilding and ship repair industry. The MOA outlined France’s commitment to deploying a skilled maritime expert to provide technical support, training, and consultancy services to MARINA. The efforts of French expert Faure have contributed to the concentrated campaign aimed at enhancing the safety levels of ROPAX fleets. MARINA is preparing a draft MOA for the extension of Faure’s engagement, for further review and discussion with the French Ambassador and officials. In the same meeting, MARINA and Fontanel addressed the significance of legislative advancements for the Philippine shipbuilding, ship repair, and ship registry.

LINK:  https://seafarertimes.com/2020-21/node/8825