PASAY CITY – To strengthen its proposals for the upcoming revision of the STCW Convention, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through its STCW Office, conducted the Usapang STCW on 04 September 2024. Focused on the ongoing Comprehensive Review of the STCW Convention, the forum aimed to gather valuable insights and feedback on five (5) draft papers that the Philippines plans to submit to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
These drafts reflect the country’s collective effort to ensure that the revised STCW Convention addresses current challenges while anticipating future developments in the maritime industry.
MARINA STCW Office Executive Director Samuel L. Batalla highlighted the importance of inclusivity and forward-thinking in revising the STCW standards, ensuring that they meet the diverse needs of seafarers and maritime stakeholders.
“We are committed to contributing to a Convention that is not only a regulatory framework but also a tool for empowerment, enabling not only our seafarers, but all maritime industry stakeholders, from MET institutions, to crewing agencies and shipping companies, to all thrive in a dynamic and challenging future. Your contributions are invaluable in shaping a Convention that truly reflects the realities of our industry, the Philippine context, and the necessary improvements that will bring positive impact to the next generation of Filipino seafarers,” Executive Director Batalla said.
STCW Office MET Standards Supervisor Presca Lee B. Lugo facilitated discussions on the draft papers. In the morning session, the first paper, presented by Maritime Industry Development Specialist Margie M. Mataac, focused on the digitalization of documentation, including certificates under STCW. MET Standards Supervisor Capt. Ronald Sediego followed with a discussion on the reduction of onboard training requirements under Regulation II/1, addressing concerns about the efficiency and practicality of training programs using advanced simulators.
In the afternoon session, International Seafarer’s Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) Country Manager Marville Cullen Espago tackled the critical issue of seafarers’ welfare, particularly violence and harassment in the workplace. MET Standards Supervisor C/E Charlie M. Pandongan presented the paper on training and qualifications for seafarers on ships subject to IGF Code.
Lastly, MET Standards Supervisor Herbert V. Nalupa addressed gaps identified between Regulation I/10 and Regulation I/2, proposing measures to harmonize these standards for improved implementation.
The event was attended by representatives from national government agencies, Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs), Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs), Licensed Manning Agencies (LMAs), and other key industry partners. Their input is expected to significantly shape the Philippines’ proposals to the IMO, ensuring the country’s proactive role in the global maritime regulatory landscape.
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