On February 19, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between MOL Marine & Engineering Co. Ltd. (MOLMEC) and the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) at the MAAP-IMMAJ campus in Bataan, Philippines. This collaboration aims to enhance the competitiveness of Filipino seafarers by establishing a Dynamic Positioning (DP) training program that is highly relevant to offshore operations in fields such as oil, gas, subsea, and offshore wind industries.
The partnership responds to the growing demand for DP-certified professionals, as access to accredited training programs has been limited for Filipino seafarers. Although there are Nautical Institute-accredited (NI-accredited) training courses in the Philippines, financial barriers often prevent seafarers from participating. This MOU intends to offer industry-leading DP training that is both world-class and affordable, thereby making it more accessible to Filipino maritime professionals.
MOLMEC contributes its technical expertise to the training while MAAP provides advanced training infrastructure, including state-of-the-art DP simulators, specifically a full-mission, class A KSIM Navigation DP bridge simulator. With a 360° view on an Electro-pneumatic controlled motion platform, this simulator enhances the learning experience for trainees.
The initiative aligns with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines’ (MOL) broader commitment to renewable energy and offshore wind energy development. With an anticipated rise in demand for DP operators due to increasing offshore wind projects in the Philippines and across Asia, this training program will play a crucial role in upskilling the local workforce. Filipino seafarers equipped with DP certification will be well-prepared to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving maritime industry.
This groundbreaking partnership is positioned to reshape the future of Filipino seafarers in offshore operations. By expanding access to quality DP training, MOLMEC and MAAP are ensuring that the Philippine maritime workforce remains indispensable in response to the industry’s evolving needs. Through such initiatives, the country can continue its legacy as a significant supplier of seafarers to the global maritime community.
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