Manila: The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has announced a revision of the minimum safe manning policies for Philippine-registered ships operating in domestic waters to tackle the seafarer shortage in the local shipping industry.
According to Philippines News Agency, MARINA Administrator Sona Malaluan highlighted in a press conference that the new memorandum circular, titled 'Revised Rules and Regulations on Minimum Safe Manning for Philippine-Registered Ships Operating in Philippine Waters,' introduces significant changes. The updated policy aims to address the shortage of seafarers in domestic shipping by implementing a more flexible system that balances education, experience, and training for certification of domestic ship officers. This adjustment is intended to allow experienced mariners without formal degrees to qualify for officer roles if they meet other competency criteria.
Malaluan emphasized that the revised circular provides opportunities for newly licensed mariners to gain experience by working on domestic ships, particularly when there is low demand for their level of expertise. This could potentially enhance their readiness for more advanced roles in the future. Additionally, the updated policy allows domestic shipping lines to upgrade their fleets by enabling their current crew to man higher-tonnage vessels.
Bong Omega from Roble Shipping Lines expressed support for the changes, stating that the revision would enhance the competency and salaries of existing ship crews. He noted that the new policy strikes a balance in the industry by aligning with the principles of supply and demand.
The revised circular was approved on July 31 during the 314th MARINA Board Meeting, which was chaired by Malaluan and supported by senior officials from various government agencies and industry associations. These included the Department of Transportation, Office of the President, Philippine Ports Authority, Development Bank of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SONAME), Philippine Inter-Island Shipping Association (PISA), and the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA).
Representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Filipino Shipowners Association also participated in the meeting virtually. The revision process involved extensive consultation, with 11 technical working committee deliberations, four public consultations, and active participation from stakeholders in the shipping industry.
