MARINA, NMP TO BOOST PINOY SEAFARERS’ SKILLS
THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) tapped the training and research expertise of the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) to enhance the skills of Filipino seafarers working on domestic waters.
The collaborative training and research efforts were underscored in a recent meeting between Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan and NMP Executive Director Victor del Rosario.
The development of training programs, particularly the Trainers’ Training, was given significant focus. It will be designed to enhance the skills of domestic seafarers working onboard ships under 500 gross tonnage and using 750 kHz frequencies. This is seen to prepare them for eventual employment overseas.
Improving such training programs is expected to elevate standards and safety practices in the domestic shipping sector. Additionally, the discussion included the joint development of capabilities for Marina staff with NMP, ensuring the institution continues to lead in maritime regulatory excellence and service.
The collaboration extends to research endeavors. Marina and NMP explored consolidating memoranda of agreement (MoAs) to improve the implementation and monitoring of NMP’s three existing research-related MoAs. Marina expressed a strong interest in broadening collaborative research, recognizing its critical role in advancing maritime knowledge and practices.
The Philippine Maritime Manpower Factbook, produced by NMP with Marina as a data contributor, is slated for enhancements. This initiative is a component of NMP’s Maritime Resource Center and complements Marina’s digitalization efforts, aiming to deliver timely and relevant data to industry stakeholders.
Malaluan also referred to the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) that was presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This plan outlines the research areas designated for both NMP and Marina, ensuring their joint efforts are in sync with the national strategy for maritime industry development.
Also present at the meeting were Capt. Chito Go, OIC-head, Maritime Training and Assessment Division; Elena Santos, OIC-head, Maritime Research and Development Division; and Evelyn Futol, OIC-head, NMP Manila Office.