The Philippine Government and the European Union (EU) have initiated a Technical Assistance Project aimed at enhancing the training, education, and working conditions of Filipino seafarers. Running from September 2024 until November 2027, the project is designed to bolster the standards of training and certification for seafarers, ensuring they are globally recognized and can secure good labor conditions abroad.
The shipping industry is vital to the Philippine economy, contributing an estimated 4% to the GDP in 2022, with remittances from seafarers adding another 1.7%. With around 1.15 million seafarers, the Philippines stands as a leading provider of maritime talent, supplying roughly 25% of the world’s seafaring workforce.
Key Philippine institutions involved in this project include the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). MARINA plays a critical role in overseeing the implementation of international standards related to the training and certification of seafarers.
EU Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Massimo Santoro, emphasized the importance of this partnership in enhancing the quality of maritime education and labor conditions for Filipino seafarers. He noted that the collaboration aims to benefit the Philippine economy and global trade alike. Ms. Fotini Ioannidou, Director for Waterborne Transport from the EU, reinforced this sentiment, highlighting that the project signifies a strong relationship between EU and Philippine authorities and aims to contribute positively to the global shipping sector.
Philippine Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista also expressed support for the project. He cited a recent law—the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers—that aims to protect and enhance the rights and benefits of Filipino mariners, welcoming assistance from the EU to further improve education and training for these skilled workers.
Additionally, the Seafarers Technical Assistance Project will extend its benefits to Indonesia and the ASEAN region as part of the EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package (SCOPE). With a total budget of €60 million, SCOPE seeks to address key connectivity priorities, further strengthening economic and cultural ties between the EU and ASEAN.
This initiative is aligned with the broader Global Gateway strategy by the European Union, which focuses on global partnerships and shared priorities, including green economy transitions, renewable energy, and advancements in education and digital infrastructure.
The project will be implemented by a consortium led by NTU International A/S, in collaboration with the World Maritime University, Ernst & Young, and Fondazione Accademia Italiana della Marina Mercantile. This comprehensive effort signifies a step towards ensuring that Filipino seafarers are recognized and equipped to thrive in the global maritime landscape, benefiting individuals and economies alike.
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