Philippines Partners with Netherlands to produce World-Class Seafarers

Manila, Philippines – The Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) recently announced that a total of 176 Filipino maritime officers have successfully trained under a partnership project of the Philippines and Netherlands.

The project, which was entitled “Training for Instructors, Assessors and Technical Inspectors/External Verifiers for the Management Level Course for Deck and Engine Officers”, provided training for 50 instructors, 49 assessors, and 77 technical Inspectors/external verifiers.

"The last batch of training under the project was conducted last February at the Marlow Navigation Center. I wish to extend my appreciation to the Dutch government, through their Embassy here in Manila, for its support to this training for MLC instructors, assessors and technical inspectors/external verifiers, and I commend all the trainees for their cooperation and able participation," said Labour Secretary Roisalinda Baldoz.

Baldoz also said that the Philippines and the Netherlands share a common goal which is to continue training as well as deploy competent Filipino seafarers.

“With the future in mind, the Netherlands government is confident that this training exercise will enhance the capacities and knowledge of maritime providers and will contribute in building the competence of Filipino seafarers, making them invaluable manpower resources in the international shipping industry, including especially for the Dutch fleet,” shared Ruth Emerink, Deputy Head of Mission of the Dutch Embassy in Manila.