Philippines Launches First Methanol Dual-Fueled Bulk Carrier
On January 15, 2026, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. presided over the naming and delivery ceremony of the “Brave Pioneer” at the Tsuneishi Shipyard in Balamban, Cebu. This event marks a significant achievement for the Philippines as it unveils the nation’s first methanol dual-fueled bulk carrier, a vessel that embodies advancements in cleaner shipping technology. The 81,200-deadweight-ton ship, built by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries, is poised to enhance the country’s reputation in global maritime manufacturing.
Brave Pioneer: A Milestone in Sustainable Shipping
The “Brave Pioneer” is a Kamsarmax bulk carrier, recognized as one of the largest dry bulk ships capable of navigating the Port of Kamsar in Guinea, West Africa. During the ceremony, President Marcos emphasized the Philippines’ ambition to emerge as a leader in low-carbon and sustainable maritime transport. He noted that as global regulations tighten, the demand for low-emission vessels will increase, providing Philippine shipyards with opportunities to access premium international markets.
Marcos highlighted the collaboration between Japan’s Tsuneishi Group and the Philippines’ Aboitiz Group in bringing this project to fruition. He praised the craftsmanship of Filipino workers, stating that the vessel showcases the nation’s competitiveness in the shipbuilding industry. The President reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the sector through supportive policies, including the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (Create) Law. He pointed out that green vessels like the “Brave Pioneer” could attract sustainability-linked loans and climate finance, further boosting investments in shipbuilding and related industries.
With over 130 registered shipyards across the country, the shipbuilding industry employs more than 11,000 workers, primarily skilled professionals. Marcos noted that in 2024, the Philippines constructed 484 vessels, underscoring the industry’s vibrancy and growth. The “Brave Pioneer” is designed to significantly reduce emissions, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 10%, nitrogen oxides by up to 80%, and sulfur oxides by as much as 99%, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least 40% by 2030.
Transforming Balamban into a Shipbuilding Hub
The “Brave Pioneer” was assembled at Aboitiz InfraCapital’s West Cebu Estate and is set to embark on its maiden voyage later this month. The vessel was launched on July 17, 2025, marking a significant milestone for Cebuano shipyard workers. Sabin Aboitiz, president and CEO of the Aboitiz Group, expressed pride in the transformation of Balamban into the Philippines’ shipbuilding capital, attributing this success to the local workforce.
Aboitiz revealed that the West Cebu Estate has created around 12,000 jobs and facilitated the construction of nearly 400 ships, with over 380 delivered to international markets. He thanked President Marcos for approving a Presidential Proclamation in December that expanded the West Cebu Industrial Park Special Economic Zone, which is expected to unlock approximately $1.8 billion in new investments and generate over 2,000 additional jobs for the local community. “All built by Filipino hands and sailed by Filipinos throughout the world’s oceans,” Aboitiz proudly stated, emphasizing the significance of local craftsmanship in the global maritime industry.
