The Philippines has been elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term.
The Department of Foreign Affairs announced the win on Saturday, saying the country would continue advocating for safe, sustainable seas that promote prosperity for maritime workers.
The Philippines will serve under Category C of the IMO Council, composed of 20 states with special interests in maritime transport or navigation. The IMO Assembly held its elections on Nov. 28 in London, naming 40 council members: 10 under Category A, or states with the largest interest in providing international shipping services; 10 under Category B, or states with the largest interest in international seaborne trade; and 20 under Category C.
During a luncheon reception before the vote, Philippine Permanent Representative to the IMO Teodoro Locsin Jr. highlighted the Philippines’ large global maritime workforce and its commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and advancement of all seafarers.
He noted the country’s role in strengthening global maritime standards, including the Manila Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention).
The IMO is a specialized UN agency responsible for maritime safety, security, pollution prevention, and related legal matters. The newly elected council will meet for its 136th session on Dec. 4 to elect its chair and vice chair for the next biennium.
