The Maritime Industry Authority of the Philippines is advancing maritime safety and operational efficiency by adopting advanced digital technologies, with a strong focus on a blockchain-enabled automated certification system. The initiative is designed to modernize how maritime professionals are certified by simplifying administrative processes, improving turnaround times, reducing opportunities for fraud, and strengthening data protection. Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan recently highlighted the importance of this system during discussions with the Department of Transportation, explaining that technology-driven reforms can play a decisive role in raising safety and reliability standards across the shipping sector.
The automated certification platform is expected to address long-standing challenges related to manual documentation and fragmented recordkeeping. By using blockchain technology, Marina aims to create tamper-resistant and verifiable certification records that can be accessed securely by relevant stakeholders. This shift is viewed as a critical step toward building greater trust in Philippine-issued maritime credentials, both domestically and internationally.
Supporting a Large and Skilled Seafaring Workforce
Recent figures show that roughly 578,600 Filipinos are employed as seafarers, representing one of the largest maritime labor pools in the world. A substantial share of this workforce consists of skilled and highly trained professionals who contribute significantly to global shipping operations. In response, Marina is aligning its policies with international requirements to ensure that Filipino seafarers remain competitive in overseas labor markets.
As part of this effort, the agency is working to establish bilateral agreements that recognize certificates issued under the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers framework. These agreements are intended to improve the mobility and employability of Filipino seafarers on foreign-flagged vessels. Marina is also pursuing stronger multilateral cooperation to exchange best practices and reinforce safety standards at a global level.
Strengthening Skills Through Training Initiatives
To further enhance workforce capabilities, Marina has launched the Marina Training Institute. The institute is designed to deliver structured training programs that meet international benchmarks and evolving industry requirements. Officials see this initiative as essential for maintaining the global reputation of Filipino seafarers, particularly as shipping operations become more technologically advanced and safety expectations continue to rise.
By investing in standardized and high-quality training, Marina aims to ensure that maritime workers are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills. This focus on continuous professional development supports long-term competitiveness and reinforces the country’s position as a leading supplier of maritime talent.
Quality Management and International Standards
In parallel with technological upgrades and training programs, Marina is expanding its Quality Management System to standardize internal procedures and improve service delivery. The system has been rolled out across the agency’s Central Office and reflects a broader commitment to achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification. Through this framework, Marina seeks to promote consistency, transparency, and accountability in its operations.
Officials expect the enhanced quality management approach to improve customer satisfaction while strengthening institutional discipline. Aligning internal processes with internationally recognized standards is also seen as a way to boost confidence among industry stakeholders and partner organizations.
Safety Targets and Global Recognition
Maritime safety remains a central priority for both Marina and the Department of Transportation. During recent meetings focused on improving maritime operations, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista called for closer alignment with the Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028, which includes an ambitious goal of achieving zero incidents across the sector. Marina’s ongoing reforms are intended to support this objective through better oversight, training, and certification systems.
The Philippines has also gained recognition through its inclusion on the International Maritime Organization whitelist, signaling compliance with strict global safety and training standards. This status enhances the credibility of Philippine maritime certifications and reassures international partners of their reliability.
Positioning for the Future
Looking ahead, Marina is concentrating on addressing operational challenges while sustaining its long-term commitment to safety and professionalism. Agency leadership has expressed confidence that strategic initiatives, supported by strong governance and digital innovation, will help overcome existing hurdles. By embracing blockchain technology and reinforcing quality management practices, Marina aims to position the Philippines as a global leader in maritime safety and standards, ensuring continued relevance and competitiveness in the international shipping industry.
