What is it about?
This article presents a comprehensive assessment tool designed to measure how prepared Philippine shipyards are to retrofit vessels for alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol, ammonia, or hybrid systems. It evaluates facilities, equipment, workforce skills, technological expertise, financial capacity, regulatory compliance, and supporting industries, using a 43‑page questionnaire formally submitted to MARINA as the core instrument. The study also analyses how policy incentives, regulations, and research investments influence shipyard readiness and modernization.
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Why is it important?
Retrofitting ships for cleaner fuels is essential for maritime decarbonization, but many shipyards—especially in developing maritime nations—lack the infrastructure, training, and financial stability to take on these complex projects. This study provides: • A structured, evidence‑based framework that policymakers can use to identify capability gaps. • A roadmap for shipyard modernization, aligned with global climate goals and national maritime development plans. • A tool that helps shipyards understand what upgrades, skills, and partnerships they need to participate in the global green shipping transition.
Perspectives
This research highlights that the Philippines has strong potential to become a regional hub for green ship retrofitting—but only if strategic investments, regulatory support, and workforce development are prioritized. The assessment tool offers a practical starting point for aligning industry, government, and training institutions toward a shared decarbonization agenda. It also underscores the importance of collaboration between shipyards, MARINA, training centers, and international partners to accelerate readiness for alternative fuel technologies.
Michaela Agtarap
Polytechnic University of Madrid
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Assessing the Capability of Philippine Shipyards in Alternative Fuel Engine Retrofitting: A Guide for Policy Formulation, Climate Law, December 2025, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1163/18786561-bja10079.
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