The Philippines is reinforcing its role in the global maritime industry by enhancing regulations, strengthening seafarer protections, and advancing training standards.

The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) demonstrated this commitment during the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) in London on February 10, 2025.

As part of the comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978 Convention and Code, Marina presented three key papers addressing critical industry concerns. 

These papers highlighted gaps in existing regulations, tackled violence and harassment at sea, promoted the digitalization of seafarers’ documentation, and proposed the implementation of electronic certifications.

“Through its active participation in HTW 11, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to strengthening maritime regulations, enhancing seafarer training and certification to ensure compliance with international standards,” Marina said.

Leading the Philippine delegation, Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan engaged in discussions on a range of maritime issues, including efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through alternative fuels and emerging technologies.

Delegates also focused on validating IMO model courses, addressing the human element in maritime operations, and implementing measures to prevent unlawful practices related to certificates of competency.

“The Marina continues to work with IMO member states to uphold high standards in maritime education and training, reinforcing the country’s role in the global maritime industry,” the agency said.

Philippines, Latvia sign pact on seafarers’ certification

On February 12, Marina announced that the Philippines and Latvia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the recognition of STCW certificates issued by Marina. The agreement aims to strengthen maritime cooperation and create more opportunities for Filipino seafarers to work on Latvian-flagged vessels.

Under the agreement, the Maritime Administration of Latvia will endorse certificates granted by Marina, ensuring compliance with section A-I/6 of the STCW Code. The pact also mandates continuous monitoring of education, training, assessment, certification, endorsement, and revalidation activities through a quality standards system, in line with section A-I/8 of the STCW.

Recognizing Philippine-issued STCW certificates is expected to boost job opportunities for Filipino seafarers, a major part of the global maritime workforce.

“The signing of this agreement further strengthens maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Latvia, reinforces international maritime standards, and expands opportunities for Filipino seafarers to serve on Latvian-flagged vessels,” Marina said in a statement. 

The signing took place on the sidelines of the HTW 11 session on February 11.

Currently, Marina said, the Philippines has bilateral agreements with 64 countries on the recognition of STCW certificates, with Latvia set to become the 65th.

Philippines, UK collaborate on maritime training enhancement

To adopt best practices in maritime education, Marina led a benchmarking visit to the United Kingdom Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) on February 5 to 6. The visit aimed to refine policies on seafarer training, certification, and assessment.

During the two-day visit, the Philippine delegation focused on key areas such as onboard training, the implementation of the electronic Training Record Book and developing simulator equivalency for mandatory sea service.

Marina said delegates compared their implementation of STCW standards and identified areas for mutual improvement. The UK MCA presented its Cadet Training and Modernization Project, explained revisions to the deck syllabus to reflect evolving industry needs, and shared insights on the emerging Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships sector.

The UK MCA also provided updates from the IMO, discussed advancements in remote operator training and certification, and reviewed short course approvals, including the integration of cybersecurity and Internet of Things modules.

The UK MCA presented its modernization of the engineering syllabus, particularly for Officer-in-Charge of Engineering Watch – III/1 and Chief Engineer – III/2. The Philippine delegation explored workshop skills development and reviewed updates to the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) course, including proposals for senior ETO training.

“The successful exchange underscored the commitment of both countries to continually enhance maritime education and training,” Marina noted, highlighting its focus on equipping Filipino seafarers with the skills needed for the next generation of maritime operations.

Pioneering digital certification

To advance digital transformation, Marina also partnered with the International Chamber of Shipping and Lloyd’s Register OneOcean to launch a pilot project for a digital seafarer certification system.

This initiative aims to modernize certification processes, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance compliance and efficiency for seafarers, shipping companies, Port State Control, and flag administrations, according to Marina. 

The memorandum of understanding for this project was signed during a Philippine-hosted reception at HTW 11 on February 12. The pilot project will explore a secure system integrating all seafarer certificates, providing real-time access for key stakeholders and giving seafarers greater control over their data.

The pact also includes an initial API (application programming interface) integration concept linking the Marina Integrated Seafarers Management Online System to the pilot platform, evaluating the technical and regulatory requirements for a global digital certification system.

Malaluan underscored the significance of this initiative, saying: “The pilot project marks a significant step in providing a global platform for a streamlined and seamless certification process for the Filipino seafarers. This collaboration reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to aligning with global maritime standards and moving towards digital transformation in the maritime industry.”

The Philippines, known as one of the world’s leading suppliers of seafarers, continues to enhance its maritime education and training to meet international standards.

By engaging in international collaborations, modernizing certification systems, and signing mutual recognition agreements, the country is paving the way for Filipino seafarers to remain competitive in the global maritime workforce.

As the maritime industry evolves with technological advancements and regulatory changes, the Philippines is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of global shipping.

Photo credit: Marina. Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan (left) and Latvia’s Maritime Administration Director Jānis Krastiņš signed a memorandum of understanding for the recognition of STCW certificates issued by Marina on February 11, 2025, in London.