A Philippine-built, methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier has started her journey to East Asia.
The 81,200-metric ton, dual-fuel ship, named M/V Brave Pioneer turned on her engines and kickstarted her trip after she underwent comprehensive inspections to make sure that she complied with international maritime standards, the Aboitiz Economic Estate said in a news release.
The bulk carrier is different from conventional vessels as she is designed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 10 per cent, nitrogen oxides by up to 80 per cent and sulfur oxides by up to 99 per cent.
Bulker’s journey, a big win for Philippine shipbuilding
According to the statement, the Brave Pioneer’s journey to the ocean aligns with the government’s focus on strengthening innovation-driven manufacturing and advancing the country’s industrial capabilities.
The development proves that the Southeast Asian nation continues to position itself as a competitive hub for globally-integrated manufacturing and export-oriented industries through high-value, technology-led production.
The vessel is built by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) at the 540-hectare West Cebu Estate in Balamban, Cebu.
Tsuneishi has launched nearly 400 vessels and delivered more than 380 ships worldwide.
The project has transformed the municipality into the Philippines’ shipbuilding capital, according to Aboitiz Group president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz.
Aboitiz added this enabled the Southeast Asian nation to compete on the global stage as it evolved into a full ecosystem that created jobs, developed skills, strengthened local suppliers and uplifted communities.
Project ‘introduces PH into global eco-friendly shipbuilding industry’
For his part, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr described the project as a statement to show the world maritime industry that it can spearhead the transition toward low-carbon and sustainable shipping.
Marcos pointed out the scheme represents the nation’s ability to deliver high-value, technologically-advanced vessels amid new global regulations that push shipping companies toward cleaner fuels and lower emissions.
The ship model is designed to significantly reduce carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide emissions compared to conventional ships, in line with standards set by the International Maritime Organization.
Marcos said the project boosts the Southeast Asian nation as a possible destination for premium international shipping markets that advocates for sustainability-linked financing, green bonds, and climate-related investments.
The president pointed out that environment-friendly ships also help create more high-value jobs for Filipino workers as it improves the nation’s manufacturing base.
He also hailed the strong Japan–Philippines co-operation in paving the way for the shipbuilding scheme.
Marcos stressed that his administration remains committed to strengthening the shipbuilding and ship repair industry through fiscal and non-fiscal incentives under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Law.
The initiative encourages modernization, adoption of low-carbon technologies and higher-value manufacturing.
As of November 2025, the Philippines has more than 130 registered shipyards nationwide, employing over 11,000 workers, with around 70 per cent classified as skilled professionals.
In 2024 alone, the country built 484 vessels, ranging from fishing boats to passenger and cargo ships.
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Lucia Caporalini 
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