The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) held the STCW Philippine Conference 2026 on September 10, bringing together maritime stakeholders to discuss Philippine proposals concerning seafarer education, training, certification, safety, and welfare. The conference provided industry representatives and members of the Philippine Working Group with an opportunity to review and contribute to the country’s positions as the international maritime community continues the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code.

Among the matters discussed were proposed measures addressing violence and harassment at sea, including sexual harassment, bullying, sexual assault, and other forms of misconduct that may affect seafarers onboard ships. Participants reviewed possible measures covering prevention, reporting procedures, company response, and support mechanisms for seafarers who experience or report such incidents.

One of the proposals discussed was the nomination of a Support Contact Ashore who could serve as an accessible point of contact for seafarers requiring assistance while working onboard. Stakeholders also discussed the responsibilities of shipping companies in receiving reports, responding to incidents, protecting affected seafarers, and ensuring that proper support is available.

The conference also contributed to the preparation and consolidation of draft Philippine proposals for consideration at the 13th session of the International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 13). MARINA led the country’s preparations and coordination as Philippine stakeholders worked to develop national positions that may contribute to future international requirements on seafarer training, safety, working conditions, and welfare.