Short link: https://wp.me/paaccn-WVO
MANILA — The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recognized the Philippines as a key partner in shaping the future of global maritime regulations, highlighting the country’s strong maritime training ecosystem and its leadership as the world’s largest supplier of seafarers.
Speaking at a press conference, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez underscored the Philippines’ potential role in providing technical input that could help shape international standards, particularly as the maritime sector moves toward decarbonization and new regulatory frameworks.
Dominguez explained that training programs and best practices developed at the national level can eventually be elevated to the IMO, where they are translated into international rules. He said the Philippines, with its numerous maritime education and training institutions, can “take the next steps” by helping provide technical expertise that feeds into global policymaking.
Meanwhile, he emphasized that the IMO maintains a close partnership with the Philippines. “Through initiatives like the Smart Sea Projects, which tackle decarbonization, plastic litter from ships, and trans-boundary fouling, as well as our new mandatory bio-fouling code, we continue to collaborate closely with the Philippines. By identifying areas where support is needed, the country helps us plan for the future and ensures that our limited resources are used effectively to assist all member states.”
The Philippines is widely recognized as the largest provider of seafarers to the global shipping industry under MARINA’s (Maritime Industry Authority) oversight, making its participation critical in discussions on safety, sustainability, and workforce development. (/)