The Philippines has been officially included in the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) prestigious “white list,” a significant global endorsement of the capabilities of Filipino seafarers. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) made the announcement on Tuesday, May 28, highlighting the milestone as a testament to the nation's commitment to maritime excellence.
Global Validation of Maritime Excellence
According to the DMW, the inclusion in the IMO’s “white list” signifies full compliance with the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) convention. This international agreement is crucial for promoting safety at sea and environmental protection.
"Inclusion on the IMO White List is a testament to our ongoing efforts in refining and elevating the skills of our maritime workforce. It is a global validation of our Filipino seafarers' exceptional abilities,” Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said in a statement.
The World’s Preferred Crew
The DMW proudly stated that Filipino seafarers are considered the “world’s preferred crew,” constituting an estimated 30% of the global maritime workforce. In 2023 alone, the Philippines deployed 570,959 seafarers, marking a 16% increase from the previous year, particularly in passenger vessels. This surge underscores the global demand and trust in the skills and dedication of Filipino maritime professionals.
Record-Breaking Remittances
Alongside this recognition, Filipino seafarers contributed significantly to the nation's economy. Remittances from seafarers reached an all-time high last year, with $6.85 billion (approximately P389 billion) sent to the Philippines. This figure represents a notable increase from the previous year’s remittances of $166 million (P9.2 billion). Such economic contributions underscore the crucial role that seafarers play in supporting their families and the country’s economy.
