MANILA, PHILIPPINES – In a pivotal step toward enhancing maritime cooperation, the Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Qatar’s Ministry of Transport have solidified their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates on 22 April 2024 at the Malacanang Palace during the sidelines of the State Visit of the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani.
This MoU, which is a revision of the 2006 undertaking between the two Parties and aligns with the 2010 amendments of the STCW Convention, is one of the nine agreements signed between the two countries during the said event.
The MoU was signed by the Philippines’ Department of Transportation Secretary Honorable Jaime J. Bautista and Qatar’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi. The signing ceremony was witnessed by His Excellency President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and His Highness Sheikh Tanim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.
For his part, President Marcos expressed during the bilateral meeting, that with 43 years of deep friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Qatar, he is certain that the two nations will foster stronger collaboration in common fields of interests. Highlighting the importance of the Philippines as a key partner, particularly in trade and economic realms, the Amir of the State of Qatar likewise lauded the significant contributions of the Filipino community residing in Qatar to the nation’s development and progress.
Meanwhile, the MARINA underscored the significance of the said MoU not only in facilitating the employment of Filipino seafarers onboard Qatar-flagged vessels but also in aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This MoU not only promotes decent work opportunities but also supports economic growth within the maritime industry, in line with the broader global agenda for sustainable development.