The Philippines was elected president of the 32nd International Maritime Organization (IMO) assembly for the first time in the organization’s history, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.
Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the IMO, Antonio Lagdameo, was nominated by the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom and seconded by the representative of South Africa.
The assembly is IMO’s highest governing body, with all 174 member states and three associate members entitled to attend, including several intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.
It normally meets once every two years and is responsible for the approval of IMO’s arrangements and the election of the Council.
Lagdameo said his election comes at a year when seafarers are recognized at the heart of shipping, adding it serves as an “acknowledgment” and “endorsement of the commitment” that the Philippines has met the IMO’s objectives.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim, in his remarks during the opening session at the IMO headquarters in London on December 6, highlighted that through and beyond the pandemic, sustainable transport would be at the heart of global recovery.
The elections for members of the IMO Council will also be held later this week, with the Philippines running for re-election, according to DFA.
The 32nd IMO assembly session will conclude on December 15 while the Council will meet the following day.
Source: Philippines News Agency
