PH wins re-election bid at int’l maritime council

The Philippines is set to serve under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium after winning its re-election bid last Nov. 28.

According to the Philippine News Agency, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced the win on Nov. 29 and affirmed that the country would “continue to promote seas that are safe, sustainable, and provide prosperity to those who sail them.”

The IMO conducted the election in London to select 40 council members, with 10 states in Category A and another 10 in Category B.

Category A includes states with the largest interest in providing international shipping services, while Category B includes those with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.

The Philippines won a seat in Category C, together with 19 other countries that have special interests in maritime transport and navigation.

Its election to the Council will ensure the representation of all major geographic areas of the world, according to the IMO.

Philippine Permanent Representative Teodoro Locsin Jr. highlighted the country’s huge representation in the global maritime workforce and its “dedication to promoting the safety, dignity, and advancement of all seafarers, regardless of nationality or gender.”

“We renew our unwavering commitment to ensure that the seas that connect us are seas of safety, sustainability, and shared prosperity,” Locsin said in a statement.

“The Philippines brings to the Council a perspective grounded in experience, shaped by vulnerability, and driven by hope,” he added.

MARINA (Maritime Industry Authority) Administrator Sonia Malaluan also expressed their gratitude for joining the IMO Council again, and affirmed the country’s leadership in maritime.

“It means a louder voice for seafarers, their rights, safety, and well-being. We raised the flag,” she said.

The Philippines has been an IMO member since 1964 and a council member since 1997.