Jeddah, Saudi Arabia — The Philippines proudly marked its presence at the global stage during the 2nd Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference 2025, with Mary Ann Pastrana, Chairperson of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation (FastCat), representing the country as a panelist on Regulatory Frameworks for Autonomous Shipping Operations. With her inclusion in this prestigious conference, the Philippines once again highlighted its growing role in shaping international maritime discussions and emphasized the unique contributions of the domestic ferry sector in advancing sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Mary Ann Pastrana, who has served as Chairperson of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation since 2003, stood alongside renowned maritime leaders and experts from across the globe to tackle the evolving landscape of autonomous shipping. In her participation, Pastrana stressed that the regulatory frameworks being developed for autonomous shipping must carefully balance safety, technology, and sustainability while ensuring that communities and economies will benefit directly from these advances. She shared the Philippine perspective, where ferries are not just vessels but vital lifelines that connect people, trade, and culture across the nation’s 7,641 islands. For millions of Filipinos, ferries serve as bridges linking communities, enabling commerce, and safeguarding cultural and social ties.

Her advocacy has consistently centered on the belief that sustainability and innovation must go hand-in-hand. As the industry moves into an era of technological transformation, Pastrana called for frameworks that do not compromise safety and environmental protection but instead integrate both as guiding principles. She emphasized that for an archipelagic country like the Philippines, the stakes are especially high, and it is important to ensure that advances in technology lead to tangible improvements in the lives of people, particularly those living in island communities who rely heavily on ferry transport for livelihood, connectivity, and growth.

In addition to her powerful message, Pastrana expressed her gratitude to Professor Khanssa Lagdami for fostering connections that made this international exchange possible and shared her excitement in working alongside another Filipino maritime advocate, Professor Angelica Baylon, during the event. Their participation underscored the depth of expertise and commitment that Filipino maritime professionals bring to the international table, contributing insights that combine technical knowledge, sustainability goals, and social responsibility.

Representing the Philippine domestic ferry sector, Pastrana highlighted how Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation (FastCat) is aligning its strategies with global and regional sustainability goals. She noted that FastCat is actively working towards Vision 2033, the International Maritime Organization’s 2030/2050 decarbonization targets, and regional initiatives that aim to reduce emissions, modernize shipping operations, and promote environmental stewardship. These alignments reflect FastCat’s long-standing commitment to responsible and sustainable operations, and they position the company as a key player in driving meaningful impact not just locally but within the broader maritime industry.

For over 22 years, Pastrana has led Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation with vision and dedication, based in Muntinlupa City, National Capital Region. Under her leadership, the company has become a symbol of innovation in the Philippine domestic ferry industry, pioneering advancements that promote safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Her presence at the 2nd Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference not only elevated the voice of the Philippine maritime sector but also reinforced the message that the country is committed to embracing future-ready solutions while safeguarding the interests of its people and environment.

Kudos to Ms Mary Ann Pastrana for carrying the Philippine flag with pride and distinction, and for strengthening the voice of the domestic ferry sector in this vital global dialogue on sustainability, innovation, and the future of maritime operations.