THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the local government unit (LGU) of San Agustin signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Aug. 13, 2026 to establish a new Marina Region 4B satellite office in the municipality.
The agreement was signed by Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan and San Agustin Mayor Aaron Madrona. The initiative was strongly backed by Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona of the lone district of the province of Romblon.
Highlighting the vital role of inter-agency cooperation during the ceremony, Malaluan said, “We anchor our service through partnerships.”
The signing was witnessed by municipal mayors across Romblon, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and key agency leaders, including Deputy Administrators Loumer Bernabe and Nenita Atienza, alongside Region 4B director Maximo Banares Jr.
Scheduled to open for public service by September 2026, the satellite office will bring essential regulatory services directly to vessel owners, operators, seafarers, passengers, and local maritime stakeholders.
By eliminating the need to travel to distant regional hubs, the initiative aims to streamline compliance, enhance maritime safety, and deliver more responsive governance to island and coastal communities across the province.