NEGROS Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. and Angkla party-list Representative Jesulito Manalo led the inauguration of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina)-6 regional office at the Panaad Park in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City on Friday.

The activity started with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling of the marker, and blessing of the four-story building, followed by a short program.

Marina-Western Visayas director Rizal Victoria welcomed the guests during the program.

He said that the Marina extension office would greatly benefit the Negrense seafarers, and they wouldn’t have to go to Manila whenever they would process and take the Deck and Engine Licensure Examinations.

He also said that the building will also be utilized as a training center and a research center for the maritime industry.

Manalo thanked Marañon for the allotting an area for Marina at the Provincial Government property at Panaad.

He also said that Angkla party-list envisions the Philippines to become a maritime nation through the cooperation of the local government units and officials.

Marañon thanked Manalo for being instrumental in bringing down to provinces the maritime services of the government.

He said that the provincial government has been providing scholarships for students who want to pursue a maritime profession.

Marina is under the Department of Transportation responsible for integrating the development, promotion and regulation of the maritime industry in the Philippines.

Also present in the activity were Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Board Member Salvador Escalante Jr., Rep. Leo Rafael Cueva of the Second District, and Bacolod City Administrator John Orola, among others./PR