MARINA Advocates for Enhanced Seafarer Protections and Digitalization at IMO Conference

MANILA – At the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) in London, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) pushed for stronger protections against harassment for seafarers, greater digitalization, and tackled other vital maritime issues. The session, which took place on Monday, saw MARINA presenting three papers that contributed to the ongoing review of the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). These papers highlighted gaps in the STCW Convention and Code, addressed violence and harassment, and proposed the digitalization of seafarers’ documentation along with the implementation of electronic certifications. MARINA emphasized that through its engagement at HTW 11, the Philippines is dedicated to bolstering maritime regulations and improving seafarer training and certification to meet international standards. The Philippine delegation, headed by MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan, is attending the week-long event to also discuss reducing ship emissions through innovative technologies and alternative fuels, and to validate IMO model courses. The sub-committee’s agenda includes the human element in maritime operations, reports on illegal practices related to certificates of competency, the biennial status report, and the provisional agenda for HTW 12, as well as a report to the Maritime Safety Committee. MARINA’s ongoing collaboration with IMO member states aims to maintain high standards in maritime education and training, reinforcing the Philippines’ position in the global maritime industry. The delegation includes STCW Office Executive Director Samuel Batalla, Philippine Maritime Attaché in London lawyer Sharon De Chavez-Aledo, Commission on Higher Education Executive Director lawyer Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro, DMW Directors August San Diego and Vincent Peneyra, key STCW Office personnel, and representatives from the Philippine Association of Maritime Training Centers, Inc.