France, PH continue enhancing domestic ship safety

MANILA – The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) on Wednesday welcomed Geraldine Foregeard as the country’s new French Maritime Expert (FME) following the renewal of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between MARINA and the French Embassy in the Philippines.

In a statement, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan said the continued partnership between the two countries has been proven effective, with the renewed MOA aiming to provide a framework for partnership between involved parties in providing technical assistance, training, and consultancy service through the placement of an FME.

“The collaboration is more than just an exchange of expertise, but it is a symbol of shared commitment to ensure safer seas and a brighter future for the maritime industry,” Malaluan said.

She thanked former FME Emeric Faure for sharing his expertise in enhancing maritime safety protocols and said she looks forward to continuing to “work and building new success” together with Foregeard.

Foregeard takes up the post after Faure who spent a two-year term with MARINA from November 2022 to October 2024.

During his stint as FME, Faure focused on the enhancement of the safety level of the Philippine Ro-Ro Passenger Ship Fleet and crafting a progressive upgrading plan to reduce the number of maritime accidents, incidents, and casualties.

He also facilitated various trainings and provided inputs in updating the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.

During the turnover ceremony on October 28, Faure thanked MARINA for their support and reminded them that their mission continues with the new FME.

For her part, Foregeard expressed the importance of continuity in international cooperation projects and said she is determined to contribute towards enhancing domestic fleet safety and the Philippine maritime industry as a whole. (PNA)

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