‘Phils 4th largest shipbuilding nation worldwide’
By Rachelle M. Nessia
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President Benigno S. Aquino III, who graced the grand opening of Austal Philippines’ shipyard facility in Brgy. Arpili, Balamban, said the Philippines is now the fourth largest shipbuilding country in the world.
“In 2011, our ship exports reached $638 million,” said Aquino, adding that this is 57.9 percent higher from the previous year.
Currently, around 45,000 Filipinos are employed by shipbuilding companies, he said.
Of the total, 250 are employed by Austal Philippines’ shipyard operations in Balamban town here.
The President today led the unveiling of a marker outside the production facility of said company’s shipyard in Balamban, signaling the grand opening of the Australian shipbuilding company’s operations in the country.
In 2011, Austal identified Philippines as their preferred location to develop a manufacturing facility in the region.
The company in the same year acquired the facility in Balamban town.
“We saw the potential for creating a center of excellence in delivering world-class ships and support services for local and international markets,” said Joey Turano, Austal Philippines Shipyard Operations President and General Manager.
Austal has committed 15US$ million into its operations in Balamban, with the goal of developing a world-class, high technology manufacturing operation in the area.
Aquino in his speech welcomed Austal as the company’s presence in the country will help accelerate the growth of this sector in the Philippines.
The Austal facility here has recently finished construction of a patrol vessel for export to the United Kingdom costing £5 million.
Four more ships are pegged to be completed before the end of this year.
These vessels are seen to rake in $70 million and generate jobs to nearly 300 Filipino workers.
Austal, has already invested an additional $4.8 million to improve the Balamban shipyard, Aquino said.
The President said he takes this as a sign that the company is in the country for the long haul.
“Perhaps, one day, you will consider further expanding your operations here and hiring even more of our people,” he told Austal officials. (RMN/PIA-7 Cebu)
PNoy unveiling the marker that signalled the grand opening of Austal Philippines Shipyard Operations in Balamban, Cebu on Jan. 16, 2013. With him is Austal CFO Greg Jason. (VVV/PIA CEBU)
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