Philippines' compliance with seafarer standards worries EU

MANILA, Philippines — The European Union (EU) has expressed concern over the Philippines’ “deficiencies” in complying with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers that recognizes and allows Filipinos to be employed in seagoing ships.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said yesterday the “final judgment” of the EU will be out in January 2020.

The Philippines has to resolve outstanding deficiencies to fully comply with the STCW and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) audit and improve the country’s maritime education, training and certification system of Filipino seafarers.

“EU is worried for us. They value our mariners. Especially Norwegians,” Locsin tweeted. 

Norway provided technical expertise to the Philippines in preparation for the EMSA audit which concluded in October 2014.

He said an EU examiner he met in Brussels is coming to the Philippines next month to start the review.

The EU has long recognized the Philippines as an important maritime nation whose many seafarers on European vessels are much appreciated.