Home⇛International Journal of Multidisciplinary: Applied Business and Education Research⇛vol. 7 no. 7 (2026)

An Assessment on the Readiness of the Philippine Domestic Shipping for the Implementation of Sulfur Cap Regulation under MARPOL Annex VI

Mylyn Cardines

Discipline: maritime technology

 

Abstract:

The study assessed the readiness of the Philippine domestic shipping sector for the implementation of the sulfur cap regulation under MARPOL Annex VI, focusing on Amoroso's dimensions of readiness: cultural refers to awareness and acceptance, structural that refers to the institutional and resources capacity and operational which refers to implementation capability. It examined the regulatory require- ments, national policies, stakeholder awareness, capability-building initiatives, implementation and enforcement mechanisms, interna- tional and regional best practices, availability of incentives and fund- ing, perceived challenges and measures to support compliance. Mixed methods approach was employed, using a concurrent triangulation design wherein qualitative and quantitative data were collected sim- ultaneously and integrated during analysis to provide a comprehen- sive assessment of readiness. The findings revealed that the Philip- pines has a well-defined regulatory framework and a generally ade- quate level of stakeholder awareness. However, significant gaps re- main in technical understanding, financial support mechanisms, and enforcement capacity. Capability-building initiatives are present but require enhancement, particularly through practical and scenario- based training. Although implementation follows a multi-agency ap- proach, inconsistencies in enforcement and limited monitoring re- sources affect its effectiveness. Furthermore, the absence of dedi- cated financial incentives places additional burden on shipping com- panies, especially small and medium-sized operators. The study con- cludes that the Philippine domestic shipping sector is partially ready for sulfur cap implementation. Strengthening inter-agency coordina- tion, capability-building programs, monitoring infrastructure, and fi- nancial support mechanisms is recommended to promote effective and sustainable compliance.



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