Reviving the old glory of shipbuilding

KOREAN SERENADE

- LEE SANG-HWA

On a recent visit to the Subic Shipyard, I had the privilege of standing atop the Goliath crane, 85 meters high. It conjured images of this colossal machine, which can lift hundreds of tons, hoist massive steel blocks and gently set them into place, like a giant LEGO toy, until they turn into a ship.

I again witnessed this drama unfold at the same site during its launch last Sept. 2. A crucial first step—steel-cutting—took place as a symbol of commencement. Steel-cutting marks the birth of a vessel. It is where concept becomes reality, blueprint takes form and the promise of an industry is set into motion. On that historic moment, the familiar sound of steel being cut echoed as loudly as it did a long time ago, heralding the beginning of a new era in Philippine shipbuilding.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s presence at the event underscored its relevance, for he recognizes the importance of reviving the Philippines' proud heritage of vessel-making. His message resonated: "Today, we will begin reclaiming our rightful place among the world's great shipbuilding nations."

Centuries ago, the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade placed the Philippines at the center of global commerce, serving as a vital link between Asia and the New World. The Museo del Galeon in Manila, which is expected to reopen in 2026, once displayed a magnificent miniature galleon, a reminder of its storied past.