THE Philippine delegation presented nine technical papers at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to align seafarer training with digitalization, green shipping and crew welfare.
The Philippines participated in the 12th Session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 12) in London from Feb. 23-27, 2026. The delegation included officials from the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the private sector. This engagement maintains the country’s role in developing international maritime training standards.
Marina STCW Office Executive Director Samuel Batalla and Maritime Attaché Atty. Sharon Aledo led the group. The Philippines introduced eight co-sponsored proposals to update the STCW Convention and Code. These papers align global certification with automation and digitalization. The updates ensure seafarer competencies remain relevant to emerging shipboard technologies.
The delegation also supported a paper to strengthen regulations on seafarer fatigue and mandatory rest hours. Discussions at HTW 12 addressed mental health and the prevention of bullying and harassment on ships. These initiatives link crew welfare to maritime safety and promote professional shipboard environments.
The Philippines co-sponsored a paper on safety and competency for ships using alternative fuels. The proposal establishes training requirements for crews operating new propulsion systems. This measure ensures that maritime education supports global decarbonization goals without compromising onboard safety.
Marina Manpower Development Service Director Jose Louie Banua presented the Philippine Seafarer’s Identity Document (SID) system. The presentation detailed security and integrity enhancements to the document. These improvements facilitate crew changes and ensure the mobility of Filipino seafarers across international borders.
The HTW 12 outcomes move to the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) for final consideration. Philippine involvement ensures that new global policies reflect current industry technology and workforce needs. These efforts reinforce standards for safety, competence, and inclusivity in the international maritime sector.
