Philippines overhauls manning rules to address seafarer shortage in domestic waters

Philippines overhauls manning rules to address seafarer shortage in domestic waters
Liz Lagniton August 19, 2025 https://maritimefairtrade.org/philippines-overhauls-manning-rules-to-add...

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has approved sweeping reforms to the country’s minimum safe manning rules for Philippine-registered ships operating in domestic waters, in what industry leaders are calling a “game-changing” move to address the worsening shortage of seafarers and modernize operational standards in the archipelago’s inter-island shipping sector.

The revised policy, formalized under the newly approved Revised Rules and Regulations on Minimum Safe Manning for Philippine-Registered Ships Operating in Philippine Waters, introduces changes to manning requirements, certification validity, and pathways for crew advancement. It marks the first major overhaul of domestic manning rules in nearly two decades.

Approved on July 31 during the 314th MARINA Board Meeting, the circular reflects months of technical work and broad industry consultation, including 11 technical working committee deliberations and four public consultations. Stakeholders ranged from the Department of Transportation and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to shipowners’ associations and maritime training groups.
Balancing safety, supply, and opportunity

In a press briefing on August 8, MARINA’s administrator Sonia Malaluan said the reforms aim to balance safety requirements with the realities of crew availability.

“There is a shortage of seafarers in domestic shipping and the policy aims to address that,” Malaluan said, adding that the circular creates a more flexible system for certifying ship officers, especially for seasoned mariners who may not have formal degrees but possess years of hands-on experience.

Under the new rules, veteran seafarers can upgrade their licenses based on documented experience and competency, even without conventional academic credentials. Newly licensed officers will be encouraged to gain sea time on domestic vessels before seeking higher positions or opportunities overseas.

“We are providing that opportunity,” Malaluan explained. “If there is low demand for that level, they can serve on domestic ships first to get experience. This is an opportunity for newly licensed officers.”

The policy also allows domestic shipping companies to assign existing crew to larger, higher-tonnage vessels, enabling fleet upgrades without immediate large-scale recruitment.
Strengthening maritime safety

MARINA stressed that maintaining adequate manning levels is a “non-negotiable” element of maritime operations, particularly in a country as geographically fragmented as the Philippines. The agency said the policy also ensures there are enough qualified officers to man ships in the country.

One major change is the extension of the validity period for the Minimum Safety Manning Certificate (MSMC) to five years, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to streamline government processes and reduce bureaucratic renewals.

“This policy is not just about compliance. It’s about ensuring that our ships are manned by competent, well-trained Filipino crew. In line with President Marcos’ directive, we are making processes more efficient while safeguarding jobs and careers in our domestic shipping industry,” Malaluan said.

For a smoother transition, existing MSMCs will remain valid until expiry, and qualified officers may temporarily assume higher positions without the corresponding Domestic Certificate of Competency until January 2026.

The updated manning tables, standardized across vessel types, replace earlier proposals for reduced crew numbers. Factors considered include vessel tonnage, engine power, area of operation, and voyage duration.
Strong industry backing

The revised policy has drawn rare unanimity of approval from shipowners.

“We are very happy with this MC because it addresses the long-standing low supply and high demand for domestic seafarers,” said Teodoro Franco Omega of Roble Shipping, a member of the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA).

“In domestic shipping, the voyages are short, so our seafarers usually choose to work abroad. But now, with this good MC, this will no longer be a problem for shipowners. This MC will level up the competencies of our existing crew, and their salaries will also increase,” Omega added.

Industry leaders believe the policy will help retain qualified officers by creating clearer career progression pathways, raising wages, and allowing more experienced crew to advance without leaving for overseas jobs.

In Cebu, the PCSA commended Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon for what it described as “transformative leadership” in securing the policy’s approval.

In a letter signed by PCSA chairman Lucio Lim and president Paul Y Rodriguez, the group credited Dizon and MARINA officials for delivering a “long-sought policy outcome” after nearly two decades of regulatory inertia.

“This milestone not only ensures safer seas but also reflects a renewed spirit of partnership between the government and the maritime sector,” the PCSA said, framing the reform as a model for future regulatory overhauls.
Broader implications for domestic shipping

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,600 islands, relies heavily on its domestic shipping network for passenger transport, inter-island trade, and supply chain continuity. While the country is the world’s largest supplier of international seafarers, domestic lines have often been overshadowed by the lure of higher-paying overseas jobs.

MARINA officials note that the domestic sector is vital for national economic resilience, particularly during emergencies when inter-island transport is the only means of moving goods and people.

The updated manning rules, they argue, are part of a broader modernization drive that includes vessel re-admeasurement under MARINA Circular SR-2021-01, stricter enforcement of rest hours, and enhanced coordination with the PCG for onboard monitoring.

The circular also requires shipping lines to submit regular reports on crew conditions, enabling MARINA to track compliance and identify areas for improvement. “We will monitor closely, in partnership with the Coast Guard, to ensure that both safety and crew welfare are protected,” Malaluan said.

Maritime training institutions are expected to play a critical role by offering courses in bridge watchkeeping, engineering specialization, and safety management tailored to domestic vessel operations.

The five-year MSMC validity is widely seen as reducing administrative burdens and allowing companies to focus on operational improvements, though MARINA has said certificates may still be revoked if safety violations occur.