JMG Co-hosts Presidential Forum with Industry Leaders

The first of the series of presidential forums, entitled ‘The Future of the Philippine Maritime Industry, was held at the Manila Hotel last January 28, 2010. Presidential hopefuls who graced the event were Councilor JC de los Reyes, Senator Benigno Simeon ‘Noynoy’ Aquino, and Senator Richard ‘Dick’ Gordon.

When asked about his programs intended for the rehabilitation, development, and growth of the Philippines’ merchant fleet, Kapatiran party representative Councilor De los Reyes said his plans are all directed to one goal, and that is to prioritize the Filipino seafarer and his family whatever it takes.

Liberal Party standard bearer Senator Aquino, on the other hand, said that there’s a “need to craft the laws that will put in place policies and incentives for an environment conducive to progress, and provide government machinery that will be the partner of industry rather than its obstacle.”

Senator Gordon, in reference to the same query, said that what the maritime industry needs today is synergy amongst the industry and a code that will unify all maritime laws. He also believes that all else will follow if all the constituents of the industry will be one and the same in their visions and missions.

The presidential forum was hosted by the Joint Manning Group (JMG), the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), and the Philippine Inter-Island Shipping Association (PISA). The distinguished panelists were FAME President Eric Marquez, Magsaysay CEO and President Doris Ho, Filipino Shipowners Association President Carlos Salinas, and MAAP President Eduardo Ma. Santos.

By:  CreativesAsia Company, Inc.