MARINA lauds launch of first Subic-built vessel by HD Hyundai

SUBIC BAY, Philippines - The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) welcomed the launch of the first locally built vessel constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines Inc. (HHIP) at its shipyard here, calling it a landmark milestone for the domestic shipbuilding sectorThe newly launched vessel, named the Orion Jade, measures 250 meters long, 42 meters wide, and 21 meters deep, demonstrating the revived facility's capacity to handle large-scale maritime construction.Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go emphasized the Marcos administration's effort to turn foreign investment pledges into operational industrial development."The launch of the Orion Jade is a testament to the Marcos Jr. administration's efforts to attract strategic investments and ensure that these commitments materialize into projects that generate quality jobs, strengthen our industrial capabilities, and create meaningful economic opportunities for Filipinos," Go said.MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan noted that the event spotlights the national maritime workforce while advancing local shipbuilding and repair capabilities."The launch of Orion Jade reflects the continued growth of the Philippine shipbuilding industry and the capabilities of the Filipino maritime workforce in supporting world-class shipbuilding operations Malaluan said.The enterprise has created approximately 4,000 jobs in Subic Bay and nearby provinces. Officials expect employment figures to double as manufacturing accelerates.To address manpower needs, HHIP teamed up with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to establish specialized vocational training programs aligned with modern industrial standards.Construction of the four-vessel contract began in September 2025 following a steel-cutting ceremony led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.