The Philippine maritime sector is undergoing a digital revolution, with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) at the helm. The agency is rolling out a blockchain-enabled automated certification system, a move set to redefine maritime safety and operational efficiency in the country. This isn’t just about modernizing paperwork—it’s a strategic pivot towards tamper-proof, verifiable credentials that could bolster the global standing of Filipino seafarers.
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan recently underscored the system’s potential during discussions with the Department of Transportation. “Technology-driven reforms can play a decisive role in raising safety and reliability standards across the shipping sector,” she stated. The initiative aims to streamline certification processes, slash turnaround times, and fortify data protection—a direct response to long-standing challenges tied to manual documentation and fragmented recordkeeping.
The blockchain backbone of the system is particularly noteworthy. By creating tamper-resistant records, Marina isn’t just improving administrative efficiency; it’s building trust. Both domestically and internationally, the integrity of Philippine-issued maritime credentials is set to receive a significant boost. This is more than a technical upgrade—it’s a vote of confidence in the country’s maritime workforce, one of the largest in the world.
With approximately 578,600 Filipinos employed as seafarers, the stakes are high. These professionals are the backbone of global shipping operations, and Marina is keen to ensure they remain competitive. The agency is aligning its policies with international standards, particularly the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) framework. Bilateral agreements recognizing these certifications are in the works, aimed at enhancing the mobility and employability of Filipino seafarers on foreign-flagged vessels.
But Marina’s ambitions don’t stop at certification. The agency is also investing in human capital through the newly launched Marina Training Institute. This initiative is designed to deliver structured, internationally benchmarked training programs, ensuring that Filipino seafarers are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills. As shipping operations become more technologically advanced and safety expectations rise, this focus on continuous professional development is crucial.
Parallel to these efforts, Marina is expanding its Quality Management System, aligning internal procedures with ISO 9001:2015 standards. This move towards consistency, transparency, and accountability is expected to improve customer satisfaction and strengthen institutional discipline. It’s a comprehensive approach that underscores Marina’s commitment to excellence.
Safety remains a central priority, with Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista calling for closer alignment with the Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028. The goal? Zero incidents across the sector. Marina’s reforms—better oversight, training, and certification systems—are key to achieving this objective. The Philippines’ inclusion on the International Maritime Organization whitelist further cements its reputation for compliance with global safety and training standards.
Looking ahead, Marina is focused on addressing operational challenges while sustaining its long-term commitment to safety and professionalism. Agency leadership is confident that strategic initiatives, supported by strong governance and digital innovation, will help overcome existing hurdles. By embracing blockchain technology and reinforcing quality management practices, Marina aims to position the Philippines as a global leader in maritime safety and standards.
This is more than a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic play to ensure the country’s continued relevance and competitiveness in the international shipping industry. As the maritime sector evolves, the Philippines is not just keeping pace; it’s setting the standard.