A shot on the EU and Filipino seafarers

We’ve provided another perspective on the EU ‘threat’ to derecognize Filipino seafarer certificates in a new commentary published by SeaShipNews.com. The article entitled ‘EU carrot and no stick for the Philippines?’ can be read here. SeaShipNews covers Southeast Asian maritime and offshore developments. It’s part of Singapore-based Asia Shipping Media (ASM), a venture launched by Sam Chambers and Grant Rowles which also publishes the highly regarded SinoShip magazine. The two intrepid gentlemen are blowing fresh air into the world of maritime publishing and journalism. We’re happy to be their guest. ~Barista Uno

Down to the wire on Philippine MET

What if a Rena-style accident were to occur in EU territory with a Filipino master at the helm? The question may seem unfair to folks in Manila. After all, as the saga of the Costa Concordia illustrates, even Italian masters can commit grievous errors. But we’d be surprised if the question has not entered the minds of the European Commission (EC) officials who will decide on whether to withdraw recognition of Filipino seafarer certificates or not. The whole issue boils down to marine safety; it has nothing, or should have nothing, to do with nationality. (more…)

Crackdown on maritime diploma mills

Shoddy maritime schools are a poor excuse to exact money from the parents of would-be ship officers. They’re also a disgrace to the country, as we now witness in the European Commission plan to withdraw recognition of Filipino seafarer certificates. Yet, two things need to be said before anyone applauds the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for ordering the closure of the BS Marine Transportation and BS Marine Engineering programmes at PMI Colleges, formerly the Philippine Maritime Institute (PMI). (more…)

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