DTI, AISL partner to improve shipping knowledge
September 10, 2025
THE Association of International Shipping Lines, Inc. (AISL) recently conducted a specialized training program for delegates from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), under the leadership of Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco. The initiative underscores the shared commitment of AISL and DTI to build stronger linkages between trade promotion and shipping operations, recognizing the vital role of logistics in sustaining economic growth.
A total of 19 delegates from DTI participated in the short course, which was designed for professionals with little to moderate knowledge of shipping. The training was conducted by Joseph Collantes IV, operations and logistics manager of RCL Philippines, Inc., who shared practical insights into shipping processes and industry practices. His comprehensive discussion helped delegates develop a clearer appreciation of how global and domestic trade connects with shipping line operations.
he participants came from a diverse mix of bureaus and offices, including the Supply Chain and Logistics Group, Bureau of Import Services, Board of Investments, Bureau of International Trade Relations, Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau, and Export Marketing Bureau.
The collaborative initiative between AISL and DTI aims to strengthen the delegates’ grasp of the intricacies of shipping, enabling them to be more effective in their respective fields. By enhancing DTI’s technical knowledge in this area, the program is expected to foster better alignment in policy-making, trade facilitation, and industry support. This is especially important as shipping and logistics continue to evolve alongside global challenges, technological advancements, and the increasing demand for efficiency in the movement of goods.
AISL emphasized that the training reflects its broader advocacy of promoting a deeper understanding of shipping among partner agencies and stakeholders, ensuring that government representatives are better equipped to engage with the industry. For DTI, the training represents an opportunity to strengthen its institutional capacity to support Philippine businesses, particularly exporters and importers, by bridging the knowledge gap between trade policy and actual shipping practices.
Both AISL and DTI reaffirmed their commitment to sustain this partnership beyond training activities.
The two organizations look forward to pursuing aligned advocacies and joint initiatives that will enhance trade competitiveness, improve the logistics environment, and drive sustainable growth in the shipping and logistics sector.
“Through this collaboration, we are bridging knowledge and practice. By working closely with DTI, we hope to ensure that trade facilitation and shipping operations move in step with one another — ultimately benefiting Philippine businesses and the broader economy,” AISL President Patrick Ronas said in a statement.