Authorities discussed several programs, including curriculum evaluation and assistance to seafarers during a recent interagency meeting aimed at addressing the deficiencies raised by the European Commission and enhancing the country's maritime industry,
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista led the meeting which aimed to address the gaps and issues identified by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) concerning the Philippines' compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers.
Although the European Union (EU) Commission for Transport confirmed that it would continue recognizing certificates for seafarers issued by the Philippine government, it also cited several areas that need improvement, including monitoring and evaluation of training, assessment of competence, and program and course design.
To address these issues, Bautista requested the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to evaluate and monitor the curriculum of maritime schools.
On the other hand, CHED and the MARINA were tasked to recommend areas where the EU could provide technical assistance.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration was also requested to assist Filipino seafarers pursuing further training for career advancement.
Earlier, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) cautioned that the employment of 50,000 Filipino seafarers who are working in the EU could be at risk of termination if the commission ceased to acknowledge certificates for seafarers issued by the Philippine government.
