PH proposes maritime security app for seafarers

PH proposes maritime security app for seafarers
Darwin G. Amojelar June 18, 2026 https://manilastandard.net/transport/314754666/ph-proposes-maritime-secu...

The Philippines has proposed the development of a dedicated mobile application designed to give seafarers direct access to emergency assistance, real-time security alerts, and government support while navigating high-risk maritime areas.

Supported by the EU CRIMARIO initiative, the proposal was presented by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) during the 4th Steering Committee High-Level Meeting of the Indo-Pacific Regional Information Sharing (IORIS) platform, held in Mombasa, Kenya.

The summit gathered maritime authorities and security agencies to discuss strategies for strengthening regional cooperation and information sharing.

MARINA Enforcement Service (ES) Director Luisito U. delos Santos stated that the proposed platform would serve as a vital link between seafarers and government authorities. Through the app, crew members could receive critical advisories and instantly report emergencies while at sea.

According to MARINA, the initiative was prompted by the increasing security challenges confronting seafarers operating in areas affected by piracy, armed conflict, geopolitical tensions, and other maritime threats.

The Philippine delegation cited recent incidents in the Red Sea and other high-risk maritime corridors, noting that seafarers are often among the first to experience the impact of maritime disruptions yet may have limited access to timely information and assistance.

The mobile application would provide navigational advisories, maritime security notifications, welfare-related information, and emergency reporting features, while enabling seafarers to directly communicate with relevant government agencies when immediate assistance is needed.

The app proposal aligns with the Philippines’ ongoing shift toward digital maritime solutions. MARINA has already implemented electronic certificates (e-certificates) for seafarers, ensuring the secure, paperless issuance of official credentials that meet international standards.

It mirrors broader global initiatives. The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), in partnership with Lloyd’s Register OneOcean, recently developed ISF Verify—a cloud-based platform built to streamline the global transition to digital seafarer certification.

The verification ecosystem complements national systems such as MARINA’s MISMO, which manages seafarer documentation and records.