by Barista Uno | Mar 27, 2012 | Manning and Training
A team from the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) came to town recently. It was their third visit to Manila since 2006. However, we’re surprised that the nature of EMSA and what it does are still not understood by many in the world’s crewing capital. We still hear dense remarks from those who should know better, such as “the Philippines is on the IMO’s white list, so why should EMSA inspect our maritime schools?” Or “the best proof of STCW compliance is that EU countries continue to hire Filipino ship officers.” (more…)
by Barista Uno | Mar 26, 2012 | Manning and Training
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…)
