PHL explores best practices with UK MCA

The Philippine delegation, led by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), recently conducted a benchmarking visit to the United Kingdom (UK) Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA) to further enhance the country’s maritime education and training policies and practices.

The two-day engagement, held last 05-06 February 2025, focused on key areas such as onboard training, the implementation of the electronic Training Record Book (e-TRB), and the development of a simulator equivalency for mandatory sea service.

On the first day of discussions, the two countries compared their implementation of the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW), exploring areas of mutual improvement. The UK MCA highlighted the introduction of the Cadet Training and Modernization (CT&M) Project, the modernization of the deck syllabus to align with prevailing and evolving standards, and shared insights on the emerging Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and its implications on the role of seafarers.

Other significant presentations from the UK MCA included updates from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a discussion on remote operator training and certification, and the review of short course approvals, including the integration of additional training modules on cybersecurity and the Internet of Things (IoT). Specific focus was also placed on the certification of seafarers, including Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch – II/4, Able Seafarer Deck – II/5, Restricted COCs, and Officer-in-Charge of a Navigational Watch under Regulation II/3 of the STCW Convention.

The second day centered on the modernization of the engineering syllabus, particularly for Officer-in-Charge of Engineering Watch – III/1 and Chief Engineer – III/2, as presented by the UK MCA. The Philippine delegation also received a comprehensive presentation on the e-TRB, followed by workshop skills, changes to the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) course, and the proposal for senior ETO training. Discussions on small vessel engineering and operation of vessels using alternative fuels added a practical aspect to the collaboration.

STCW Office Executive Director Samuel L. Batalla and Philippine Maritime Attaché in London Atty. Sharon L. De Chavez-Aledo led the delegation, along with key personnel of the STCW Office.

The successful exchange underscored the commitment of both countries to continually enhance maritime education and training, ensuring that policies are aligned with global standards and responsive to the future needs of the industry. The Philippines, through the MARINA, strives to explore innovative solutions to better equip Filipino seafarers for the challenges of tomorrow’s maritime landscape.