Cebu Maritime Expo 2026 Modernizing Industry

Cebu Maritime Expo 2026 Modernizing Industry and Driving Growth

The Cebu Maritime Expo is set to return in 2026, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technical experts to shape the future of the Philippine maritime sector. The three-day event will take place from April 22 to 24, 2026, at the IEC Convention Center Cebu (IC3).

As the heart of Philippine shipbuilding and domestic shipping, Cebu's central role in the industry is reflected in the expo's focus on modernizing the sector. According to Engr. Sammuel Lim, chairman of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and the One Maritime Group (OMG), the event aims to translate national maritime policies into concrete outcomes by grounding discussions in technical application.

We are moving from 'Policy to Practice.' We aren't just discussing the National Maritime Industry Development Plan; we are applying the technical expertise of naval architects to ensure that the ships built here are globally competitive, safe, and technologically advanced, Lim emphasized.

The expo will feature discussions on various topics, including maritime security and sustainability. Retired Rear Admiral Margarito Sanchez Jr., vice chairman of The Maritime League, stressed the importance of maintaining a secure maritime domain to support long-term economic activity.

Security is the foundation of sustainability, Sanchez said, highlighting the need for stronger interagency cooperation against illegal activities and environmental degradation.

Local shipyards are also set to showcase their capabilities, with Meneleo Carlos III of the Shipyards Association of the Philippines emphasizing the sector's potential for growth if supported by appropriate policies and investments.

From the shipyard perspective, we are advocating for the SBR Development Bill. We are using this Expo to showcase that Filipino yards are ready for larger, more complex builds if we get the right policy support and investment, Carlos said.

The event will also feature discussions on technical standards, vessel safety, operations, logistics, digital transformation, and more. Representatives of the Philippine Register of Shipping will highlight compliance with international safety conventions, while marine technical superintendents and ship managers will tackle vessel maintenance, performance, fuel efficiency, and crew welfare as shipping transitions toward real-time data systems and greener operations.

To bridge the gap between industry developments and public awareness, the expo aims to translate technical information into engaging stories that resonate with the general public. Organizers believe this will strengthen collaboration and deliver practical outcomes for the Philippine maritime industry.

Booth reservations are now open for companies and organizations interested in participating in the Cebu Maritime Expo 2026. Packages range from a built shell package (P60,000) to a shell scheme booth package (P190,000). For more information or to reserve a booth, please contact OMG directly.

The Cebu Maritime Expo 2026 is designed as a working platform rather than a traditional trade show, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, technical experts, and communicators to drive growth and modernize the industry.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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