EU Weighs Ban on Filipino Seafarers Due to Training Issues

January 12 ------ The European Commission is deliberating a potential ban on Filipino seafarers working on EU-flagged vessels, according to a report by Deutsche Welle. This consideration stems from longstanding concerns regarding the maritime training standards provided to Filipino seafarers, which are reportedly inadequate in meeting international safety criteria.

The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) has highlighted deficiencies in the training offered by Philippine maritime institutions, specifically citing failures to comply with guidelines set by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. Since 2006, EMSA has pointed out these shortcomings, and despite the Philippine government’s pledges to remedy these issues, critics argue that insufficient funding has been allocated to upgrade educational facilities.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines recently engaged in discussions with EU officials, reaffirming his country’s dedication to addressing the concerns raised and complying with European maritime regulations. The Philippines stands out as the largest global supplier of seafarers, with estimates indicating that between 380,000 and 400,000 Filipinos are employed in a variety of maritime roles. Furthermore, Filipino seafarers represent approximately a quarter of all personnel aboard merchant ships.

Should the Commission ultimately endorse EMSA’s report and implement the ban, it would cease to recognize the competency certificates currently issued to Filipino seafarers. Existing certificates would remain valid until their expiry, but no new or renewed applications would be accepted for jobs on EU-flagged ships. The European Commission is expected to reach a decision by the end of the first quarter of 2026, with an analysis underway of the detailed replies the Philippines provided in response to EMSA’s audit.

This potential ban emerges during a period when the maritime industry is grappling with manpower shortages and other challenges. Russia and Ukraine, the second-largest sources of seafarers according to UN data, have also faced disruptions due to ongoing conflicts, further complicating manpower availability. The industry is additionally struggling to attract younger individuals to a career at sea.

In summary, the future of Filipino seafarers in the EU maritime sector hangs in the balance as the European Commission evaluates crucial training standards and potential implications for one of the Philippines’ key professions.

Source: maritimefairtrade.org