The Philippines has secured a decisive victory at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) following the official vote for the Chair of the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW).

With 53 votes, Atty. Sharon De Chavez-Aledo, Philippine Maritime Attaché to the IMO, has been elected Chair of the HTW Sub-Committee, prevailing over the United States’ candidate, Captain Cathleen Burns Mauro.

The HTW Sub-Committee plays a critical role in shaping global standards on seafarer training, certification, and watchkeeping under the STCW Convention — directly impacting maritime safety and the welfare of seafarers worldwide.

This landmark victory reinforces the Philippines’ standing as one of the world’s leading maritime nations and affirms the international community’s confidence in Filipino leadership in advancing the human element in global shipping.

From the world’s leading supplier of seafarers — now leading the global conversation on their future.

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