NMP hosts media forum to boost maritime development

NMP hosts media forum to boost maritime development
Antonio Contreras October 9, 2024 https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/10/09/business/maritime/nmp-hosts-media...

RECOGNIZING the vital role of media in disseminating information and shaping public understanding of the maritime industry, the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) hosted the National Media Partnership Forum on Sept. 25, 2024 at the Amosup Convention Hall in Intramuros, Manila.

This event was a key part of NMP's celebration of National Maritime Week 2024 and was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and the maritime sector.

The NMP provided an in-depth update on its accomplishments, strategic initiatives, and ongoing efforts to advance Philippine maritime education and training.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around Republic Act 12021, also known as the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers, and its implications for NMP.

The Magna Carta strengthens NMP's mandate as a government agency by enhancing its role in providing maritime training aligned with international conventions, conducting research and studies for program development and policymaking, and establishing a maritime resource center — a new function assigned under the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Act.

The NMP, in partnership with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), is tasked with mainstreaming gender and development into the maritime curriculum, promoting equal opportunities for male and female seafarers.

In collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), Department of Labor and Employment, and CHEd, NMP is also set to create transition and support programs for Filipino seafarers who are unemployed or between contracts, offering them training, livelihood, and income-generating opportunities. These initiatives are designed to help seafarers navigate career transitions and challenges more effectively.

NMP Executive Director Victor del Rosario also highlighted the institution's Modernization Plan FY 2025-2028. He clarified, however, that it is not yet part of the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for FY 2025, though it remains a congressional initiative.

The four-year plan aims to modernize NMP's training equipment, machinery, and vital infrastructures and enhance welfare programs for seafarers, hoping that it will soon be included in the General Appropriations Bill.

Additionally, concerns regarding NMP's initiatives in digitalization and decarbonization were raised during the open forum. NMP reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these challenges through ongoing maritime research and specialized training programs. These initiatives are designed to equip Filipino seafarers with the skills and knowledge needed to meet international standards and adapt to the evolving demands of the global maritime industry, particularly in sustainability and technological advancements.

A seafarer-participant also raised a query on whether NMP provides assistance to trainees in securing a Certificate of Proficiency (COP) with Marina after completing training, particularly since both NMP and Marina are government entities. NMP expressed gratitude for the suggestion and explained that, under the Magna Carta, the establishment of one-stop-shop centers for seafarers is a key provision aimed at enhancing convenience and maximizing the services offered by relevant government agencies.

NMP acknowledged the importance of streamlining the process and assured the forum that the possibility of facilitating or creating a special arrangement for trainees — from training to certification and COP issuance — will be explored. This may involve entering into a memorandum of agreement with Marina to ensure seamless service delivery.

NMP tapped the assistance of the Philippine Information Agency–National Capital Region to facilitate the activity. The forum, attended by 17 media outlets and 21 seafarers, served as a platform for meaningful discussions on the challenges and opportunities within the maritime sector.

NMP firmly believes that strengthening its partnerships with the media will significantly enhance public awareness of its initiatives and contribute to the overall development of the maritime industry.