On the sidelines of the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being, the Philippines held a series of bilateral meetings with partner countries to strengthen cooperation in the maritime sector.
On Day 1, MARINA officials, led by Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan and STCW Office Executive Director Samuel L. Batalla, together with Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) officials, met with New Zealand, followed by separate bilateral discussions on Day 2 with Myanmar, Georgia, Greece, Mexico, Oman, and Sri Lanka. During the meetings, the Philippines expressed its gratitude to the delegations for their active participation in the conference and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and well-being of seafarers.

The Philippine delegation conveyed its interest in exploring areas of collaboration with each partner, particularly in maritime education and training, seafarer protection, and global shipping standards. The MARINA also took the opportunity to discuss and appeal for its counterparts' support for the Philippines’ candidature to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.

These bilateral engagements further underscored the Philippines’ active role in fostering cooperation with the global maritime community and in seeking recognition of the certificates issued in accordance with the requirements and standards under the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended. This recognition will bolster continuous employment or even create new employment opportunities for Filipino seafarers.