Maritime safety and e-navigation were in the spotlight as representatives from IMO, the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the Philippines came together in Manila under the SMART-C Traffic Project (28 March – 4 April).
IMO experts joined key Philippine maritime authorities* to assess the current state of maritime traffic information systems and identify opportunities for enhancing navigational safety via the SMART-C Traffic initiative.
Discussions included advancing e-navigation strategies, aligning with the work of the IMO's Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR), and strengthening coordination across domestic institutions.
Field visits to the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) and the Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) provided insights into the country's operational procedures and capacity for managing maritime safety information. The delegation observed first-hand the existing infrastructure for Aids to Navigation (AtoN) and hydrographic surveying, and engaged with technical experts to discuss the application of S-100 standards and the future direction of hydrographic data integration.
A dedicated inception workshop (2 April) brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders for technical exchanges on SMART-C's implementation. Presentations were delivered by MARINA, ROK, and IMO officials, highlighting national and regional progress in deploying e-navigation solutions.
Gender inclusion was a key feature of the mission, with a session dedicated to SMART-C Women participants and discussions on empowering women in the maritime sector through national master planning and engagement with Women in Maritime – Asia (WIMA).
* the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
About the SMART-C Traffic Project
The SMART-C Traffic Project – Development of a SMART-Maritime Traffic Management System and Improvement of Related Operational Capability in a Pilot Developing Country (the Philippines) – is being implemented between 2023 and 2027. The project aims to develop, operate, and pilot trial a web-based e-navigation service that can efficiently analyse and manage maritime safety information in an internet-based environment. By enhancing operational capabilities and integrating maritime safety information systems, the project will support safer navigation and more efficient maritime traffic management in the Philippines.