The Integrated Seafarers of the Philippines (ISP) warned that some 80,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) working as seafarers in Europe might lose their job if the Philippines would not pass the accreditation required by the European Union (EU).
The accreditation, which European shipping companies use as basis in acknowledging the certification received by seafarers in the Philippines, is expected to affect 80,000 Filipino, reported ABS-CBN.
As of March 2017, the Philippines failed in 59 aspects of the international standards set by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
EMSA previously noted that the Philippines falls below international standards in terms of quality management and quality of maritime schools in the country.
Meanwhile, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Felipe Judan said the transportation department has plans to address the accreditation issue.
“Ang isang idea is lahat ng ship-owners na Pilipino sa domestic, i-require na magkaroon ng trainees on board. The other alternative is we’re looking into a training vessel,” said Judan.
Judan added that they are confident that the Philippines will be accredited despite the nearing deadline.
