The maritime partnership between the Philippines and Norway remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral relations, gaining renewed importance as the global shipping industry accelerates its green and digital transformation.
Christian Halaas Lyster, ambassador of the Royal Embassy of Norway in the Philippines, said the long-standing cooperation is evolving in response to climate imperatives and rapid technological change, with Norway aiming to stay at the forefront of sustainable maritime solutions.
Last year, Norway supported the Philippines’ first electric ferries conference, convening policymakers, shipowners, ports, and technology providers to explore pathways for decarbonizing domestic shipping.
The initiative highlighted the potential of electric and battery-powered vessels to cut emissions while improving efficiency across the archipelago’s vital ferry networks.
Lyster said a Norwegian–Filipino private sector collaboration is also working on the country’s first hybrid-propulsion ferry prototype. Beyond lowering emissions, the project aims to modernize the local ferry fleet and generate employment through local manufacturing and technology transfer.
“The shift towards electric ships and greener logistics is no longer optional,” Lyster said. “It’s essential for long-term competitiveness and climate resilience.”
Human capital remains central to the partnership. Around 25,000 Filipino seafarers currently work on board Norwegian or Norwegian-controlled vessels, reflecting what Lyster described as their professionalism, competence, and strong global reputation.
Norwegian companies are likewise expanding their presence in the Philippines, drawn by solid growth prospects, a young and skilled workforce, and the country’s strategic position in Asia. While maritime remains the cornerstone, Lyster noted growing Norwegian interest in renewable energy, circular economy solutions, seafood, and agriculture.
Closely linked to the maritime transition is cybersecurity. As vessels, ports, and logistics systems become increasingly digitalized, Lyster stressed that cyber resilience is critical.
Norway underscored this priority by hosting a major maritime cyber conference in Manila in April.
Cybersecurity, he said, will remain a key area for deeper cooperation as the Philippines advances its digital and green shipping agenda.
