MARINA seeks harassment protection, better digitalization at IMO meet

MARINA seeks harassment protection, better digitalization at IMO meet
Raymond Carl Dela Cruz February 11, 2025 https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243854

MANILA – The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) sought to improve harassment protection for seafarers, increase digitalization, and address other critical aspects of maritime operation during the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) in London, United Kingdom on Monday.

During the event, MARINA presented three papers as part of the ongoing comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978 Convention and Code.

In a statement on Tuesday, MARINA said these papers focused on identified gaps and certain provisions of the STCW Convention and Code, violence and harassment, digitalization of seafarersʹ documentation, and implementation of electronic certifications.

“Through its active participation in HTW 11, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to strengthening maritime regulations, enhancing seafarer training and certification to ensure compliance to international standards,” MARINA said.

The Philippine delegation, led by MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan, is participating in the week-long session to discuss other agenda such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships through new technologies and alternative fuels and the validation of IMO model courses.

The IMO sub-committee will also discuss the human element in maritime operations, reports on unlawful practices associated with certificates of competency, the biennial status report and provisional agenda for HTW 12, and the report to the Maritime Safety Committee.

“The MARINA continues to work with IMO member states to uphold high standards in maritime education and training, reinforcing the country’s role in the global maritime industry,” the statement read.

Malaluan is joined in the event by STCW Office Executive Director Samuel Batalla, Philippine Maritime Attaché in London lawyer Sharon De Chavez-Aledo, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Executive Director lawyer Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro, DMW Directors August San Diego and Vincent Peneyra, key personnel of the STCW Office, and representatives from the Philippine Association of Maritime Training Centers, Inc. (PNA)