NMP, OWWA line up upskilling programs for Pinoy seafarers

NMP, OWWA line up upskilling programs for Pinoy seafarers
NMP April 23, 2026 https://pia.gov.ph/press-release/nmp-owwa-line-up-upskilling-programs-fo...

TACLOBAN CITY — The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have strengthened their collaboration to align support programs in upskilling the Filipino maritime workforce, ensuring they remain competitive in the global maritime industry.

During her first official visit to NMP, OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan underscored the agency’s commitment to harmonize its initiatives with the mandates of NMP, particularly in expanding access to quality maritime training and support services for seafarers.

Through this partnership, NMP will offer an updated course (free of charge) on Basic Training for Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (BT-PSSR) at the OWWA Seafarers’ Welfare Office in Parañaque City starting this year, with meal provisions for trainees.

Under its “Alagang OWWA” program, the agency is exploring the potential inclusion of the BT Full Course, along with meal provision and incentives for qualified seafarers. Once finalized, this initiative is expected to ease the financial burden of training and encourage more maritime workers to upgrade their competencies.

In addition, OWWA proposes to increase the training assistance under its Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP) from P7,500 to P10,000, pending Board review and subject to applicable guidelines.

“This expanded training support, which goes beyond free tuition to include meals and allowances, is a practical and timely assistance for our seafarers. This initiative also reflects our long-term vision of expanding access to high-quality maritime training for more Filipinos,” said Victor Del Rosario, NMP executive director.

As the only state-run maritime training and research institution in the country, NMP ensures that every Filipino seafarer is globally competitive and future-ready, sustaining the country’s position as the world’s leading supplier of maritime professionals.

For more information about NMP programs and services, visit the official website at https://nmp.gov.ph, register online at http://register.nmp.gov.ph, or follow the official NMP Facebook page at https://facebook.com/nmptrainingcenter. (NMP)