The International Maritime Organization (IMO) announced that Phase 2 of the comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention will begin in the coming weeks, focusing on specific amendments to ensure the Convention remains relevant in an era defined by cleaner fuels, artificial intelligence, and expanding digital systems onboard ships.
The announcement was made by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez at the opening of the Regional Forum At the Regional Forum on the Effective Implementation of the STCW Convention and Code in Manila on February 17.
The STCW Convention is considered one of the primary, cornerstone functions of the IMO. It is widely recognized as one of the “four pillars” of the international maritime regulatory regime, alongside SOLAS (safety), MARPOL (pollution prevention), and the MLC (labor standards).
In his speech, Dominguez emphasized that shipping must invest in people to ensure that those onboard are treated with the same dignity and provided with the same facilities afforded to land-based workers, including access to internet connectivity and adequate living conditions.
As one of the world’s leading suppliers of seafarers, the Philippines plays a pivotal role in these global reforms. Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia Malaluan highlighted the responsibility of maritime nations to ensure their workforce remains competent, adaptable, and future-ready.
“Together, we must confront the evolving challenges and opportunities within this dynamic sector,” Malaluan said, pointing to competency developments, environmental pressures, and geopolitical shifts reshaping global shipping. She emphasized that reform, while challenging, presents an opportunity to raise standards and reinforce global confidence in Filipino seafarers through strengthened maritime education and training.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr. called for a serious and forward-looking review of global standards — one that directly addresses automation, digitalization, violence and harassment at sea, and the safe handling of alternative fuels.
“If ships are to shift to cleaner energy, then training must shift with it,” he said, underscoring the need to equip seafarers with the skills to safely use, handle, and store emerging fuel technologies.
He further stressed that respect must be the norm at sea, with zero tolerance for harassment and accountability for misconduct, adding that dignity and protection must extend equally to all genders.
Delivering the message of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, Assistant Secretary Ventura Plan reiterated the Philippine government’s commitment to ensuring safe and inclusive working environments for seafarers.
“We must ensure that every seafarer, women and men alike, can work in an environment that is safe, inclusive, and respectful,” he said. “When we protect our people, we strengthen our entire maritime industry.”
