PH, Norway sign pact on recognition of seafarers' certificates

MANILA – The Philippines and Norway have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates.

In a statement Tuesday, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said the MOA aimed to facilitate the recognition of seafarers’ certificates with the goal of “maintaining high standards of safety, competence, and professionalism within the global maritime industry.”

“It is intended to benefit the seafaring community and contribute to broader objectives, such as maritime security and sustainable development.”

The MOA was signed by MARINA and the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) in a ceremony Monday.

The Philippine Embassy in Norway, it said, believes that the signing of the MOA would result in an expected increase of 25,000 seafarers to be employed on board Norwegian-flagged ships.

“The signing of this MOA signifies a significant step towards closer cooperation between the Philippines and Norway in the maritime domain,” it said.

The MOA called for both countries’ cooperation in adhering to the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW) standards.

This includes compliance with regulations governing the issuance of certificates of recognition, monitoring of training and assessment processes, and maintaining accurate registers of certificates and endorsements.

“Key provisions of the MOA emphasize the importance of adherence to national laws, conditions for recognition, compliance with the STCW Convention, and cooperation in fortifying technical capabilities,” MARINA said.

The agreement also incorporates a quality assurance mechanism that would allow periodic inspections of approved facilities and procedures. (PNA)