The Philippine delegation, led by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), attended the 10th session of the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) held at the IMO headquarters in London, UK. The HTW deals with the human side of shipping, including training and certification; the review, updating and revision of IMO model courses; as well as guidance addressing issues such as fatigue and wellbeing of seafarers.
The ongoing session continues the work started in HTW 9 on the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and the STCW Code. The review is carried out to deal with cyber security and emerging technologies, as well as issues on bullying and harassment, including sexual assault and sexual harassment. Likewise, the quality of onboard training, and measures to facilitate mandatory seagoing service are also discussed. The session also follows through the move for ensuring just transition for seafarers in view of decarbonization in the maritime sector.
In HTW 10, the Philippines participated in finalizing the draft list of areas under the STCW Convention and STCW Code which will be subjected to review, the draft methodology which will be adopted to tackle the work, and the road map of activities which are aimed to culminate in 2027. Lessons learned from previous comprehensive amendments, particularly during the Manila Amendments in 2010 were recalled as basis for establishing Inter-Sessional Working Groups (ISWG) and Correspondence Groups which will be convened to ensure effective coordination and avoid any unintended consequences that may arise from adopting changes.
The Philippines co-sponsored two papers in HTW 10: Reports on unlawful practices associated with Certificates of Competency which was submitted with Japan and Panama; and the Proposal to incorporate recommendations on Polar Code training programs which was submitted with Argentina, Canada, Chile, Georgia, Malaysia, South Africa and Türkiye.
During the session, two model courses were validated: IMO Model Course 1.32 on Operational use of integrated bridge systems including integrated navigation systems, and IMO Model Course 1.35 on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker cargo and ballast handling simulator.
For one of the agenda items, attending representatives of IMO member states and International Governmental Organization (IGOs) expressed overwhelming support for the inclusion of STCW module in the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS). This initiative aims to address the concerns on continuous and transparent communication between flag States and port States, and also, to deal with the problems associated with fraudulent certificates of competency.
The Philippine Delegation to HTW 10 is composed of Mr. Samuel L. Batalla, Executive Director of the MARINA-STCW Office, Atty. Jean Ver P. Pia, Maritime Attaché, Atty. Cdr. Mary Leizl Barbero PCG, Technical Adviser to the Office of Maritime Attaché, Atty. Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro, Executive Director of CHED, Engr. Annette B. Tan, RN, OIC Director of the DOH-HFSRB, Ms. Mayla N. Macadawan, Deputy Executive Director of the DMW-NMP, and select personnel of MARINA and representatives from concerned stakeholders who are attending remotely or online.
The PH Delegation, under the leadership of Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, is committed to proactively participate in all initiatives with utmost regard to seafarers as a key element for the safety and security of life at sea, protection of the marine environment, and promotion of sustainable shipping through cooperation.
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