MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan highlighted the importance of continuous learning for Filipino seafarers during the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) “Disenteng Trabaho para sa mga Marinong Filipino Mega Job Fair” held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, in Pasay City on 22 September 2024.
The Job Fair, which was conducted in celebration of the 25th National Maritime Week and 29th National Seafarers Day, brought together Filipino seafarers and licensed manning agencies (LMAs) offering over 3,000 employment opportunities in the maritime sector.
In her remarks, Administrator Malaluan underscored the significance of continuous learning in the rapidly changing maritime landscape, advising seafarers not to fear advancements such as automation, digitalization, and decarbonization. “You should not stop learning. Kasi, ang nakikita ko, mas marami na ang millennials and Gen Z. You will not find it difficult to adjust to the current trends. Ang digitalization at automation ay hindi na future – nandito na.”
With alternative fuels emerging in the industry, Administrator Malaluan also stressed the need for training before stepping onboard. “Katulad din ng mga decarbonization, sari-saring fuel ang ginagamit sa ngayon. Wala pang one global solution. So make sure na kung sasakay kayo doon, lalo na ‘yung mga magiging officers na talagang in charge of the navigation and the engine department – you should have the training.”
As discussions on the STCW Convention progress, Administrator Malaluan reiterated her commitment to advocating for training that meets the actual needs of seafarers, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the Philippines’ advantages to ensure effective and relevant programs.
Finally, Administrator Malaluan randomly spoke with some applicants to check primarily their concerns with the Agency’s services, particularly in their application for the issuance of COPs, COCs, SRBs and SIDs.
“Maayos naman po ang pag issue ng COP pero sa SRB ay umaabot na po ulit ng more than two weeks bago makakuha ng slot”, said an applicant.
Administrator Malaluan vowed to look into this matter immediately.
The MARINA remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the maritime workforce and ensuring that Filipino seafarers remain competitive in a dynamic global market. By prioritizing continuous education and adapting to industry advancements, the MARINA aims to equip seafarers with the skills necessary to thrive in an evolving landscape.
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