Global Shipping Takes Center Stage at the First-Ever Joint Maritime Conference 2026
On 29 January 2026, maritime leaders and decision-makers gathered at Lanson Place Mall of Asia for the first-ever Joint Maritime Conference 2026: The Philippines in Global Shipping: Future Opportunities and Threats.
The full-day event brought the global shipping conversation to the forefront, highlighting the Philippines’ strategic role, the evolving maritime workforce, and the opportunities and challenges posed by technological innovation and geopolitical changes.
Organized by the Joint Maritime Committee of NordCham Philippines, together with the Dutch, French, German, and Italian Chambers of Commerce in the Philippines and the Philippine-Norway Business Council, the conference brought together ambassadors, policymakers, industry executives, and experts to examine how these trends are shaping the future of Philippine shipping.
The event opened with Opening Remarks by Mr. Tore Henriksen, Chairperson of the Joint Maritime Committee, who highlighted the importance of collaboration among governments, industry, and international partners in navigating today’s maritime challenges. This was followed by a Welcome Message from H.E. Massimo Santoro, Ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines, who emphasized the EU’s support for maritime security, technological innovation, and sustainable development, underscoring the Philippines’ critical position in global shipping.
SESSION HIGHLIGHTS
Part 1: Safe Passage
The first session explored maritime security and the shifting geopolitical landscape. H.E. Christian Lyster, Ambassador of Norway to the Philippines, introduced the plenary, followed by a presentation from Prof. Jay Batongbacal of the University of the Philippines on challenges to the rules-based international order.
The session included a Q&A with Prof. Batongbacal, H.E. Lyster, and Mr. Erwin Meijnders of the Royal Dutch Shipowners Association, moderated by Mr. Carl Martin Faannessen, President of the Philippine-Norway Business Council, discussing the implications of geopolitical developments on global shipping routes.
Part 2: Tech or Threat
The second session examined the impact of technology on shipping, including opportunities and risks. Plenary introductions were delivered by H.E. Marie Fontanel, Ambassador of France, and H.E. Davide Giglio, Ambassador of Italy.
Discussions covered artificial intelligence, autonomous vessels, and cybersecurity, with presentations by Mr. Louiery Reyes Sincioco (UTS Philippines), Mr. Riccardo Barbiellini (Bureau Veritas), and Ms. Louella Zarcilla (LZ Cybersecurity). A panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Joost Mes of Marlow Navigation, addressed regulatory challenges, operational risks, and the broader consequences for global shipping.
Part 3: The World’s Leading Supplier of Crew—Now and in the Future?
The final thematic session focused on Filipino seafarers and workforce competitiveness. Mr. Robert van der Hum, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Netherlands, opened the session.
Dr. Winston Conrad B. Padojinog presented insights on the overseas seafarers’ industry and its economic impact. Discussions on training, education, and labor perspectives were led by Capt. Joeran Noestvik, Capt. Sherwin Cinco, and Mr. Johann Diercks, followed by a panel and Q&A with MARINA Administrator Hon. Sonia Malaluan and DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina, moderated by Mr. Carl Martin Faannessen.
The conference concluded with a synthesis by H.E. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, Ambassador of Germany to the Philippines, who summarized key insights from the day’s discussions. Closing Remarks were delivered by Asec. Villamor Ventura S. Plan of the Department of Transportation, reinforcing the need for continued dialogue and collaboration to strengthen the Philippines’ maritime position.
Special Thanks to Our Attendees, Speakers, Sponsors, and Partner Organizations
NordCham Philippines extends its sincere appreciation to all attendees, speakers, moderators, and panelists for their active participation and insights, as well as to our sponsors for their support in making this first-ever high-level conference a success.
This conference reflects NordCham Philippines’ continued commitment to supporting the maritime sector, fostering meaningful dialogue among industry and government stakeholders, and contributing to discussions that strengthen the Philippines’ role in global shipping, in collaboration with our partner chambers and organizations.
