Marina deepens ties with Belgium and Oman for Filipino seafarers

Marina deepens ties with Belgium and Oman for Filipino seafarers
Genivi Verdejo December 10, 2025 https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/12/10/business/maritime/marina-deepens-...

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) said agreements with Belgium and Oman will expand international opportunities for maritime workers.

Marina has formalized two major international agreements at the 34th International Maritime Organization (IMO) General Assembly in London, aimed at supporting Filipino seafarers and enhancing global maritime cooperation.

The renewed agreement with Belgium allows for mutual recognition of Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates, facilitating smoother credential validation for Filipino seafarers working on Belgian-flagged vessels.

Meanwhile, the new agreement with Oman sets clear procedures for the recognition and verification of Philippine-issued certificates, providing Filipino seafarers with more predictable and transparent pathways to work in Oman’s maritime sector.

Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan said, “These partnerships open more opportunities and reinforce global career pathways for Filipino seafarers, ensuring their skills are recognized and valued internationally.”

In addition to these agreements, the Philippines reaffirmed its candidacy for the IMO Council, signaling its ongoing commitment to seafarer welfare, maritime safety, and adherence to international standards.