Philippines and Latvia Forge Stronger Maritime Ties
The Philippines and Latvia have bolstered their maritime cooperation through a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) that recognizes each other's certificates under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), according to the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).
The agreement, concluded during the 11th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) this week, permits Latvian authorities to endorse certificates issued by Marina. As part of this accord, the Maritime Administration of Latvia will issue Endorsements of Recognition to Filipino seafarers who hold certificates from Marina, ensuring compliance with STCW Convention's stringent training and competency standards.
Representing their countries at the signing ceremony were Marina Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan and Maritime Administration of Latvia Director Jānis Krastiņš. Marina emphasized that this agreement guarantees Filipino seafarers' training, competence assessment, and certification align with international standards, thereby enhancing their global mobility.
The agency noted, "It also mandates continuous monitoring of all education, training, assessment, certification, endorsement, and revalidation activities through a quality standards system." This recognition of Philippine-issued STCW certificates is expected to significantly improve employment prospects for Filipino seafarers, who are a major part of the global maritime workforce.
Marina added, "The signing of this agreement further strengthens maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Latvia, reinforces international maritime standards, and expands opportunities for Filipino seafarers to serve on Latvian-flagged vessels."