BALAMBAN, Cebu — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday led the naming and delivery of the world’s first methanol dual-fuel KAMSARMAX bulk carrier, built in the Philippines, in ceremonies here.
Mr. Marcos said this underscores the country’s readiness to compete in the global shift toward low-carbon maritime transport.
The vessel, Hull No. SC-443, named “Brave Pioneer,” was constructed by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. at Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Inc. (THI) in the West Cebu Estate, Balamban.
It has a carrying capacity of 81,200 metric tons and is the first KAMSARMAX bulk carrier capable of operating on methanol fuel.
The President said the delivery places the Philippines firmly on the global map as a future-ready maritime manufacturing hub aligned with International Maritime Organization (IMO) decarbonization targets.
“This achievement sends a clear message to the world that the Philippines is ready to lead the global transition toward low-carbon and sustainable maritime transport,” he said.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding President and CEO Okumura Sachio said the project represents a major milestone for sustainable shipbuilding and the group’s efforts to develop environmentally advanced vessels.
“This is the culmination of many years of design expertise, shipbuilding technology, and collective efforts of the Tsuneishi Group,” Okumura said.
He noted that methanol dual-fuel capability strengthens the company’s ability to respond to evolving global demand for low-emission ships.
According to Tsuneishi, the vessel reduces carbon dioxide emissions by about 10 percent, nitrogen oxides by 80 percent, and sulfur oxides by 99 percent compared to conventional vessels. The use of green methanol could further lower its environmental impact.
Mr. Marcos said the development supports the country’s push for green shipping through cleaner fuels, optimized vessel design, and improved energy management, while creating access to premium international markets, sustainability-linked financing, and green investments.
“Green vessels are not only good for the environment; they also strengthen our manufacturing base and create higher-value jobs for Filipino workers,” the President said.
He credited the project to strong Japan-Philippines cooperation, highlighting the partnership between the Tsuneishi Group and the Aboitiz Group, which provides infrastructure and support at the West Cebu Estate.
Tsuneishi has operated in Cebu for more than three decades and has launched nearly 400 ships, delivering over 370 vessels worldwide.
As of November 2025, the Philippines has more than 130 registered shipyards employing over 11,000 workers, about 70 percent of whom are skilled professionals. In 2024, the country built 484 vessels ranging from fishing boats to passenger and cargo ships.
Mr. Marcos said the government remains committed to strengthening the shipbuilding and ship repair industry through incentives under the CREATE Law to encourage modernization, adoption of low-carbon technologies, and higher-value manufacturing.
“May the delivery of the Brave Pioneer stand as a symbol of what we can achieve when innovation, international partnership, and Filipino craftsmanship converge,” he said.
