PHL, Latvia strengthen maritime cooperation

PHL, Latvia strengthen maritime cooperation
Lorenz S. Marasigan February 12, 2025 https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/02/12/phl-latvia-strengthen-maritime-...

THE Philippines and Latvia have strengthened maritime cooperation with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) recognizing each other’s certificates issued under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) said.

The agreement, formalized on the sidelines of the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) this week, allows Latvian authorities to endorse certificates issued by the Marina.

Under the agreement, the Maritime Administration of Latvia will issue an Endorsement of Recognition to Filipino seafarers who have obtained certificates from Marina. The process adheres to STCW Convention provisions, ensuring compliance with rigorous training and competency standards.

Marina Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan and Maritime Administration of Latvia Director Jānis Krastiņš represented their respective governments in the signing ceremony.

Marina in a statement said the pact ensures that the training, competence assessment, and certification of Filipino seafarers meet international standards under the STCW Code, bolstering the global mobility of the country’s maritime workforce.

“It also mandates continuous monitoring of all education, training, assessment, certification, endorsement, and revalidation activities through a quality standards system,” the agency said.

The recognition of Philippine-issued STCW certificates is expected to boost employment prospects for Filipino seafarers, who comprise a significant portion of the global maritime workforce.

“The signing of this agreement further strengthens maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Latvia, reinforces international maritime standards and expands opportunities for Filipino seafarers to serve on Latvian-flagged vessels,” the Marina said.