In June, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held talks with top officials of Japan’s Tsuneishi Holdings Corporation to explore deeper cooperation in eco-friendly shipbuilding and broader industrial growth. The meeting took place during the second day of his working trip to Osaka, highlighting the Philippines’ push for strategic partnerships in sustainable maritime development.
As a result of that meeting, President Marcos announced that the Japanese firm will construct the world’s first methanol dual-fueled KAMSARMAX bulk carrier at its Cebu facility. In a Facebook post following the engagement, Marcos hailed the development as a milestone for advancing sustainable shipping technologies in the country.
“The future of shipbuilding is taking shape in the Philippines,” Marcos stated. “It’s proof of what we can achieve through innovation, strong partnerships and the talent of the Filipino workforce.”
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Development partnership
In a later statement, the Presidential Communications Office quoted President Marcos describing the initiative as a “technological breakthrough” and a powerful testament to the potential of Philippine-Japan collaboration.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. ranks among the early pioneers in developing methanol-powered bulk carriers—an important move in the global shift toward zero-emission maritime vessels.
A methanol dual-fuel KAMSARMAX bulk carrier is a next-generation cargo ship designed to operate on both methanol and traditional marine fuels. This flexible fueling system significantly lowers emissions, offering a cleaner alternative to standard vessels.
The company described the methanol-fueled vessel as a new generation of ships that balances green performance with economic efficiency, aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. “It incorporates innovative environmentally friendly technologies aimed at maintaining and improving the lifetime value of the vessel,” it explained.
According to an update posted on its official website, Tsuneishi completed the initial block loading for the KAMSARMAX vessel on April 21, 2025. The ship is on track for delivery by January 2026.
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Tsuneishi shipbuilding’s legacy
Founded in 1917, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. has established itself as a major force in global shipbuilding, particularly known for its strong presence in the market for medium-sized bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. With over a century of experience, the company remains a prominent player in the international maritime sector.
The firm is recognized for constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers, with major shipyards located in Japan, the Philippines, and China. Its global operations are supported by business offices throughout Asia and Europe.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding is deepening its footprint in the Philippines as it moves into the fifth phase of expanding its Balamban shipyard in Cebu. The latest phase includes investments in advanced equipment and upgraded research and development facilities, aimed at boosting innovation and production capacity.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1252659
https://politiko.com.ph/2025/06/20/marcos-japanese-shipbuilder-to-expand-cebu-facility/daily-feed/