New EU-Philippines Project To Improve Training & Working Standards For Filipino Seafarers

Shipping — Image for representation purposes only

The European Union (EU) and the Philippine government have launched a joint project to improve the training, education, and working conditions of Filipino seafarers.

This effort, announced in a joint statement on November 11, will take place from September 2024 to November 2027.

The project will focus on improving Filipino seafarers’ training and certification processes, ensuring that they may continue to work globally under favourable labour conditions.

Filipino sailors are in high demand worldwide, and this project tries to keep them ahead in the competitive maritime industry.

Several Philippine organisations will be involved in the project, including the Department of Transportation, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Commission on Higher Education, the Philippine Coast Guard, and maritime higher education institutions.

Philippine Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista praised the EU’s cooperation, discussing the importance of internationally recognized certifications for Filipino seafarers.

Bautista says these qualifications are essential for Filipino mariners seeking jobs on foreign vessels. He further said that Filipino seafarers remain a top choice for global shipping companies due to their skills and dedication.

“The recently signed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers guarantees protection and benefits for our highly skilled maritime workers,” Bautista said. He also discussed the maritime sector’s importance to the Philippine economy, which directly contributes 4% of its GDP.

Remittances from seafarers boost the country’s GDP by an additional 1.7 per cent.

Fotini Ioannidou, the EU’s Director for Waterborne Transport, said the project reflects the EU’s strong partnership with the Philippines. It is meant not only to benefit the Philippines and the EU but also to have a good impact on the global shipping industry, where Filipino seafarers are considered a cornerstone of the workforce.

The project will also benefit Indonesia and other ASEAN countries as part of the EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package. With a total budget of 60 million euros, the initiative aims to address common connectivity priorities while improving economic and cultural ties between the EU and ASEAN countries.

The project will provide much-needed help to Filipino seafarers, assuring their continued success and well-being in the maritime industry.

Reference: Global nation, PNA

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