Philippines and Latvia Ink Deal to Recognize Seafarers’ Certificates

In a move to enhance maritime collaboration, the Philippines and Latvia have formalized an agreement that recognizes the seafarers’ certificates issued by the Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). The signing took place in Manila, aiming to open up new avenues for Filipino seafarers to work on ships registered under the Latvian flag. According to MARINA, this memorandum of understanding (MOU) not only fosters stronger ties between the two nations but also ensures that Filipino seafarers meet the international standards set by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The Latvian Maritime Administration will now endorse certificates issued by MARINA, confirming that the training and evaluation of Filipino seafarers adhere to the STCW Code’s section A-I/6 standards, with qualified instructors and assessors. Furthermore, the agreement stipulates ongoing oversight of all related educational and certification processes, aligning with section A-I/8 of the STCW. The endorsement process will follow regulation I/2, paragraph 5 of the STCW Convention. This significant agreement was signed during the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping.