Australia and the Philippines are enhancing their maritime cooperation to bolster trade growth and better protect seafarers, as evidenced by a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). This agreement focuses on the mutual recognition of seafarer certificates, aimed at streamlining certification processes and reducing administrative obstacles in shipping and logistics.
The MoU was finalized during a meeting between Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, and MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan in Manila. During this exchange, Ambassador Innes-Brown also announced Australia’s endorsement of the Philippines-led Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being. This development follows both countries’ successful re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council and occurs as they prepare to celebrate 80 years of bilateral relations in 2026.
Ambassador Innes-Brown emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “This is not just about certificates — it is about people and prosperity.” He pointed out that approximately 95% of the trade between Australia and the Philippines is conducted via ships, highlighting the critical role of efficient maritime operations. In fact, in 2024 and 2025, Australian ports are expected to receive a record 52 visits by Philippine-flagged vessels, marking the highest frequency in five years.
From Australia’s perspective, these measures contribute to smoother trade and improved maritime operations, aligned with “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.” Simultaneously, the initiative bolsters the rights and livelihoods of Filipino seafarers, reaffirming the Philippines’ vital position in global shipping as a premier supplier of skilled maritime labor.
MARINA Administrator Malaluan noted that the MoU reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to aligning its training, assessment, and certification of seafarers with international standards. The agreement is part of a broader trend, as Australia has been expanding its maritime engagement with the Philippines to reflect a shared vision of a peaceful and economically stable region.
Additionally, Australia established a permanent Australian Border Force presence at its embassy in Manila in 2024. This initiative aims to enhance civil maritime cooperation, border enforcement, and trade facilitation in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Customs. Furthermore, Australia collaborates with the World Bank to support MARINA and the Department of Transportation in developing a roadmap for decarbonizing inter-island ferry services, in line with the Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028.
In summary, the renewed maritime cooperation between Australia and the Philippines represents a significant step towards facilitating trade while enhancing protections for seafarers, fostering an environment of stability and growth in the region.
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