Industries all around the world have suffered because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The global health crisis proved that there are issues and challenges that still need to be hurdled with proper preparation. While it was largely an unforeseen roadblock, the effects could have been lessened with ample planning and foresight.
The shipping industry in the Philippines was not spared from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the global shipping shortage. As a matter of fact, we are still experiencing the lingering effects of the pandemic on the shipping industry so much so that local news is still broadcasting the current shortage of poultry products.
With that said, it is imperative that the shipping industry moves to alleviate the stresses that continue to plague the sector. For one, more steps can be taken to improve the current processes not only in ship management, crew management, and marine management but also in ship services. These are all vital areas that can be improved by employing the current practices of more modern ports from other countries.
The Philippine shipping industry can look in the direction of South Korea and Singapore where technology is at the forefront. The said countries have partnered with telecommunications companies in order to lay out advanced data-sharing technologies in order to communicate between ports in real-time. Not only did this improve communications but it also laid the groundwork for more efficient processes and automation needed to ensure a much smoother flow of cargo being loaded and unloaded at the ports.
While there is still room for improvement in our local ports, the situation in our local shipyards continues to look promising. Just recently, it was reported that Cerberus Capital and Management Austal has expressed its interest in expanding within the Philippine shipbuilding industry. This is good news, especially for skilled workers. Paired with the foreseen rise in salaries this 2022, the crewing problem within the industry might just be alleviated in the near future.
According to a paper published by the Department of Trade and Industry in 2017, there are an estimated seven large to medium-sized shipyards while there are over 90 small shipyards scattered throughout the country. All are reported to be engaged in maintenance and upgrades instead of actual shipbuilding but the future still holds promise for the local shipbuilding sector. A vast majority of these shipyards employed around 50,000 full-time workers.
The Philippine shipbuilding industry is currently looking at an upsweep this year. With travel restrictions easing up and the demand for shipping services still increasing, it’s only a matter of time until we see a significant rise in revenue for the sector. If demands continue to rise and the number of skilled workers increases, the future of the Philippine shipbuilding industry looks nothing but promising.
Companies like Jebsen PTC are committed to adapting to the new, emerging changes in the local and international shipping industries. With almost a century worth of experience in ship management, crewing, and ship services, Jebsen PTC has maintained its exceptional maritime services that ensure skilled Filipinos are always up-to-date with the latest industry trends. For more information about our story, visit www.jebsen-ptc.com/about-us/
