Pirates of the Sulu Sea: Experiences of shipping companies in Zamboanga City, Philippines

This study examines the experiences of shipping companies operating in Zamboanga City in the face of piracy incidents in the Sulu Sea. Through an empirical investigation of actual data collected from interviews and surveys conducted with key stakeholders, this research sheds light on the challenges faced by shipping companies and provides insights into effective strategies for mitigating piracy risks. The research findings reveal a significant prevalence of piracy incidents in the Sulu Sea, causing substantial disruptions to shipping operations. The study identifies key challenges faced by shipping companies, including the safety of crews and vessels, financial losses, and reputational damage. Additionally, the research highlights the impact of piracy on regional economic development, trade routes, and overall security in the area. Based on the analysis of the data, this study puts forth a set of recommendations to address the piracy challenges in the Sulu Sea. These recommendations include enhancing maritime security cooperation, investing in advanced surveillance technologies, implementing targeted risk assessment and management strategies, strengthening legal and judicial frameworks, and promoting public-private partnerships. This research contributes to the existing knowledge on maritime security and provides practical insights for policymakers, maritime authorities, and shipping companies in developing effective countermeasures against piracy in the Sulu Sea.