Russia to help boost Ph Maritime-Transport Education

Manila, Philippines - Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and Russian Minister of Transportation Minister Maksim Sokolov agreed to cooperate on rail, maritime, road and aviation development in the Philippines.

The meeting was done at the sidelines of the 31st Asean Summit which was hosted by the Philippines.

“The meeting was very cordial and productive. They expressed gratitude for the warm welcome given to them by the Filipino people, and they look forward to even closer ties should these plans materialize,” said Transportation Assistant Secretary Leah M. Quiambao.

Philippines and Russia will pursue the exploration of Russia’s development assistance for the Northern Luzon railway corridor, including the deal for the future New Clark City.
“Russian assistance will commence with a grant for the preparation of a detailed feasibility study. Russia is expected to bring with it its development experience, gained in the course of building its 86,000 kilometer of mainline and 60,000 kilometer of secondary railway lines,” Quiambao said.

Russia is also willing to help boost the country’s maritime-transport education including a possible donation of training vessel.

“The Philippines and Russia will pursue the deployment of training vessels to the Philippines’s learners and trainers-exchange programs between the Philippine Merchant Maritime Academy and Russia’s maritime academy, and possible donation by Russia of a training vessel to the Philippines,” added Quiambao.