SENATOR Grace Poe urged the government to ensure the quality of maritime education in the country.

Poe said the government and private sector should step up efforts to boost training and address issues raised by the European Maritime Safety Agency during the period allowed by the European Union.

The efforts will ensure the future of Filipino seafarers, the senator said.

“The quality of our maritime education will ensure the safety of travelers and secure the future of many Filipino seafarers’ families,” Poe said.

She stressed that the continued recognition by the European Union of the certificates for Filipino seafarers is a crucial decision that will keep them onboard ships.

“During this turbulent period of the global economy, we cannot afford job losses that will bring economic difficulties to millions of families,” she said.

“As Filipino seafarers remain the preferred choice in the EU region, we should embark on continuous skills training to increase the viability of our workers,” the senator added.