Philippines remains compliant with seafarers standards

Philippines remains compliant with seafarers standards
Richmond Mercurio - August 24, 2019 https://www.philstar.com/business/2019/08/24/1945882/philippines-remains...

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has remained in the global list of countries compliant with International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced yesterday that the country has maintained its status in the updated International Maritime Organization (IMO) white list.

The so-called white list is a list of countries following the provisions of the International Convention on STCW 1978, as amended.

The DOTr said the IMO Maritime safety committee during its 101st session last June 5 to 14 discussed and confirmed that the Philippines has communicated its full and complete demonstration of the relevant provisions of the STCW Convention.

“We are happy with this development, but the more important thing is our ability to sustain this development. That is why I challenge Marina (Maritime Industry Authority) to consistently exert all efforts to further strengthen the country’s performance of its obligations and commitments as an IMO Member State. Ultimately, our seafarers, their families and our nation stand to gain from this consistent compliance,” Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said.

Marina officer in charge Narciso Vingson Jr. said the country’s continuing inclusion in the IMO white list is a confirmation of the country’s consistent efforts in producing globally-competent Filipino seafarers through the enhancement of maritime education, training, assessment, and certification system.

“This positive development not only maintains the Philippines’ strong position in the international maritime community, but also secures the employment of thousands of Filipino seafarers manning internationally-flagged vessels and supporting the national economy through remittances,” Vingson said.

The DOTr said there is an upcoming IMO Member State Audit Scheme in 2021 that will look into the country’s implementation and enforcement of the provisions of mandatory IMO instruments pertaining to STCW, safety of life at sea, prevention of pollution from ships, load lines, tonnage, as well as regulations for preventing collisions at sea.

Tugade earlier said the DOTr, through Marina, is working not only to keep the country’s standing in the IMO white list, but also sustain its position as the largest supplier of seafarers in the world.