The Philippines and the Netherlands have taken a significant step forward in their maritime cooperation, with both nations agreeing to deepen their collaboration on seafarer welfare, digitalization, and shared governance goals. The 23rd Joint Committee on Maritime Affairs (JCMA) Meeting, held in Manila on July 1, 2025, saw high-level officials from both countries reaffirm their commitment to adapting to global industry demands and ensuring the protection and advancement of seafarers.
Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Sonia Malaluan and Dutch Director General for Civil Aviation and Maritime Affairs Brigit Gijsbers led the discussions, which included a range of critical topics. These included climate policies under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the review of the STCW Convention, and pilot projects on digital seafarer documents. The meeting also touched on mutual recognition of medical certificates, the implementation of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, and updates on the Philippines’ SID System.
The Netherlands remains one of the top 10 foreign employers of Filipino seafarers, making this cooperation particularly vital. The Philippines, in turn, serves as a key source of maritime labor for the Dutch shipping industry. This symbiotic relationship underscores the importance of aligning efforts to meet global industry demands and safeguard seafarers’ rights.
Assistant Secretary for Maritime Villamor Ventura Plan emphasized that JCMA meetings are not just about policy updates but also about co-creating solutions and improving maritime governance. “Over the past 25 years, while faces have changed and global circumstances have evolved, the spirit of collaboration, mutual trust, and steadfast dedication to safety, sustainability, and excellence at sea has remained unwavering,” Malaluan stated, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
Gijsbers praised the professionalism of Filipino seafarers, noting their remarkable contribution to the global shipping industry. “It is essential that seafarers have access to a safe and stable working environment, where they are recognized and supported as the industry evolves,” she said, underscoring the need for continuous improvement in seafarer welfare and working conditions.
The Philippine delegation included representatives from Marina, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Department of Health (DOH), the Joint Manning Group (JMG), and other public and private stakeholders. The Dutch side was represented by officials from the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners (KVNR), the Netherlands Embassy, and NOVA College.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthened cooperation, particularly in maritime education, training, and global competitiveness. This renewed focus on collaboration is expected to shape future developments in the maritime sector, fostering innovation and ensuring the welfare of seafarers in an ever-evolving industry.
The discussions on digitalization, such as pilot projects on digital seafarer documents, could revolutionize the way seafarers’ credentials are managed, making the process more efficient and secure. The mutual recognition of medical certificates and the implementation of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers are also crucial steps towards ensuring the health and rights of seafarers are protected.
Moreover, the emphasis on climate policies under the IMO and the review of the STCW Convention reflects a proactive approach to addressing environmental and safety concerns in the maritime industry. These initiatives are likely to set new standards and best practices, influencing global maritime governance.
The cooperation between the Philippines and the Netherlands serves as a model for other nations, demonstrating the benefits of international collaboration in the maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, such partnerships will be instrumental in driving progress and ensuring the sustainability of maritime operations.
In the end, the JCMA meeting was more than just a policy update; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and mutual trust between the two nations. The outcomes of this meeting are poised to shape the future of the maritime industry, ensuring that seafarers are at the heart of these developments.