The Philippines has been elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the term 2026 to 2027.

In announcing its win on Saturday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Philippines would continue to promote seas that are safe, sustainable, and provide prosperity to those who sail them.

The Philippines will serve under the IMO Council Category C, along with 19 others that represent states that have special interests in maritime transport or navigation.

The IMO Assembly held its election for the new council on Nov. 28 in London, where 40 council members were formally named, including 10 in Category A, or states with the largest interest in providing international shipping services, and 10 in Category B, composed of states with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.

In a luncheon reception before the voting, Philippine Permanent Representative to the IMO Teodoro Locsin Jr. highlighted the Philippines’ huge representation in the global maritime workforce and its “dedication to promoting the safety, dignity, and advancement of all seafarers, regardless of nationality or gender.”

He highlighted the country’s leadership in elevating global maritime standards, notably through the Manila Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers or the STCW Convention.

The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for enhancing the safety and security of global shipping and preventing pollution from ships. It is also involved in legal matters, including liability and compensation issues, and the facilitation of international maritime traffic.

The newly elected council will meet for its 136th session on Dec. 4 and elect its Chair and Vice-Chair for the next biennium.