THE GOVERNMENT will continue to strengthen the country’s maritime education and training system to ensure that Filipino seafarers remain globally competitive and protected amid evolving international standards and emerging security challenges.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the administration has implemented reforms aimed at safeguarding the global employability of Filipino seafarers.

“We strengthened maritime education and training, improved certification systems, upgraded facilities and equipment, and worked closely with our international partners to ensure that Philippine standards continue to meet global expectations,” Marcos said during the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) SALIGHIRANG Class of 2026 Commencement Exercises held at the Grandstand of the PMMA Complex in Barangay Natividad, San Narciso, Zambales.

“Through these efforts, we will continue to safeguard the global employability of Filipino seafarers. At the same time, we will uphold the highest international standards in our maritime education, training, and certification system,” the President added.

Marcos recalled that the country’s maritime education and certification system had recently faced a major challenge that threatened the employment of thousands of Filipino seafarers.

“Not too long ago, our maritime education and certification standards came under a serious challenge,” he said.

The President noted that the livelihoods of around 50,000 Filipino seafarers working aboard European Union-registered vessels were placed at risk due to concerns over the country’s compliance with international maritime standards.