LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – The Philippines and Georgia have strengthened maritime ties as the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the LEPL Maritime Transport Agency (MTA) inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978, as amended.

The agreement, signed at the Philippine-hosted cocktail reception during the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) on 12 February 2025, aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation and ensure compliance with global standards in training, certification, and watchkeeping for seafarers. Under this agreement, MARINA and MTA will recognize certificates issued by each other’s administration, allowing seafarers from both countries to serve onboard vessels flying their respective flags.
The MOA, signed by MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan and MTA Director Aleksi Akhvlediani, outlined conditions for recognition, including compliance with STCW regulations, maintenance of training and certification standards, and periodic inspections. It also established provisions for cooperation in technical and administrative matters related to seafarers’ certification and labor affairs.

The signing ceremony was also attended by Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the IMO, Mr. Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., and Chargé d’Affaires of Georgia, Mr. George Saganelidze.

This latest development reinforces the Philippines’ role as a leading provider of seafarers worldwide and expands its international partnerships to safeguard the welfare and professional growth of Filipino maritime professionals.

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