MANILA, PHILIPPINES – In a significant stride towards enhancing maritime cooperation, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through its STCW Office, has opened its doors to delegates from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The opening of this visit on 29 April 2024 marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between the two nations, as Saudi Arabia evaluates the Philippines’ system of maritime education, training, and certification.
The Saudi delegation’s visit aligns with the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at the recognition of seafarers’ certificates. Under the MOU, both countries are committed to ensuring the quality and proficiency of seafarers through mutual recognition of their certifications.
In his remarks during the opening meeting, STCW Office Executive Director Samuel L. Batalla emphasized the importance of such visits as opportunities for MARINA to exhibit its adherence to the STCW Convention. He reiterated the country’s dedication to upholding international maritime standards, highlighting the significance of these interactions.
“As one of the leading suppliers of seafarers globally, it is incumbent upon us to ensure that our maritime manpower is well-equipped and compliant with international regulations. We are profoundly grateful also for the trust and confidence that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places in our seafarers,” Executive Director Batalla stated.
Capt. Raad Al-Sobhi, heading the delegation, conveyed that the purpose of their visit is to activate the MOU between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, as well as to facilitate the recognition of STCW certificates fostering expertise exchange in this field.
“We express our hopes that the success of this visit comes out with recommendations that contribute to the success of this Memorandum,” Capt. Al-Sobhi said.
From April 29 to May 3, 2024, the KSA delegation, comprising Capt. Al-Sobhi, Engr. Osama Al-Mehmadi, Mr. Sultan Alghamdi, Mr. Abdullah Al-Hawas, and Mr. Saleh Al-Zahrani, will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the country’s implementation of the STCW Convention.
The MARINA remains committed to facilitating a constructive dialogue and cooperation between the Philippines and KSA, with a dedication to upholding the highest standards of maritime education and training, ensuring that Filipino seafarers continue to be recognized globally for their competence and professionalism.