Philippines Deputy Minister for Transportation, Atty. Julius A. Yano, addresses delegates at the International Maritime Organization, a United Nations specialized agency, at its headquarters in London, UK.
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines was re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council during the 33rd IMO Assembly in London on Friday.
The country garnered 136 votes from 168 voting member states. A total of 171 member states attended the assembly.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed the significance of this re-election for the Philippines’ role in the global maritime industry.
“We believe our re-election will allow us to continue contributing to the global maritime industry, not just as a top provider of top-caliber seafarers but also at promoting safe and secure shipping operations, geared towards growth, modernization, resiliency, and sustainability,” Bautista stated.
Additionally, Bautista and Saudi Arabia Transport Minister Saleh Al Jasser signed a memorandum for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s continued recognition of training certificates for Filipino seafarers on the sidelines of the assembly.
The assembly, attended by 171 member states, is scheduled to run from November 27 to December 6.
The IMO is an attached agency of the United Nations that oversees world maritime affairs, such as safety, security, and the environmental protection of the marine sphere.
The Philippines joined the IMO in 1964, and was elected to the Council in 1997.
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