The Philippine government and the European Union (EU) have launched a technical assistance project to improve seafarers’ training, education and working conditions nationwide. “The European Union is partnering with the Philippines to improve and sustain the quality of the country’s system of maritime education, training and certification, and of recruitment and placement of seafarers for the benefit of its people, economy and of ultimately also of global trade,” EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro said in a news release on Monday. EU Waterborne Transport director Fonti Ioannidou said the initiative aims to further strengthen the country’s education, training, and certification system for seafarers while demonstrating the solid partnership between Philippine authorities and the EU. “The project will not only bring mutual benefits to both the Philippines and the EU but also contribute positively to the global shipping industry, recognizing Filipino seafarers as a cornerstone of the maritime workforce worldwide,” she added. The project. which will run until November 2027, will support Filipino seafarers who can continue working abroad and under good labor conditions.

LINK: https://seafarertimes.com/2020-21/node/9172