Industry stakeholders lauded the leadership of past and present officials as the Maritime Industry Authority prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
Conti, appointed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2009 as the deputy administrator for planning of MARINA, is referred to as the “father” of the MARINA STCW Office, which was his brainchild. Conti and then-director Malaluan were the dynamic duo who ensured the success of the Manila STCW Conference.
EO 75 also became the basis for Republic Act No. 10635, which established MARINA as the single maritime administration responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, as amended. His leadership not only brought back the glory to MARINA but also forged effective collaborations between maritime education and training providers and the government, ensuring compliance with international standards.
One of Malaluan’s significant contributions was her involvement in the crafting of the MARINA Roadmap, a comprehensive 10-year Maritime Industry Development Program aimed at enhancing the domestic shipping industry.