Philippines reelected to IMO council

Here's the edited blog post

Philippines Reelected to IMO Council A Vital Role in Shaping Global Maritime Policy

The Philippines has been reelected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, a testament to its continued importance in shaping global maritime policy. This significant development was announced on November 28 and reaffirmed during the council's 136th session on December 3.

As a member of the IMO since 1964 and a council member since 1997, the Philippines has consistently demonstrated its commitment to promoting safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly maritime practices. The country's reelection to the council is a testament to its reputation as a reliable crew supplier and its contributions to global shipping and trade.

The IMO Council plays a vital role in setting international rules on safety, training, and environmental standards. With the Philippines at the table, Filipino seafarers – who make up approximately 25 percent of the world's maritime workforce – have a direct voice in shaping policies that directly impact their working conditions, safety standards, and career opportunities.

As a council member, the Philippines has been instrumental in pushing for better protection of seafarers' rights, including fair treatment, mental health support, and recognition of their role in global trade. This has led to stricter enforcement of safety protocols, reducing accidents at sea; alignment of maritime schools' curricula with IMO standards, ensuring that graduates remain globally competitive.

The Philippines' continued seat on the IMO Council also means that Filipino seafarers can gain training in new IMO green shipping standards, making them more employable in fleets transitioning to sustainable operations. This has practical implications for individual seafarers, such as securing promotions due to training in decarbonization technologies.

During the pandemic, the Philippines advocated for crew change protocols to help stranded seafarers return home. In future crises, Filipino seafarers could benefit from faster repatriation policies shaped by Philippine advocacy.

The Philippines' council seat is not just symbolic; it's a strategic tool to ensure that Filipino seafarers remain indispensable in global shipping. With stronger representation, the country can safeguard the remittance lifeline from seafarers, which contributes billions to the national economy. This means that seafarers' families – who often face long contracts and isolation – can enjoy greater financial security and peace of mind.

In essence, the IMO Council seat empowers Filipino seafarers, transforming their lives from reactive survival to proactive empowerment. Their daily routines become safer, their careers more secure, and their families more protected. This has a direct impact on the economy, with remittances supporting local development and funding for education, healthcare, and family time.

In conclusion, the Philippines' reelection to the IMO Council is a significant milestone that demonstrates its commitment to promoting safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly maritime practices. As a council member, the country can continue to shape global maritime policy, ensuring the well-being of Filipino seafarers and their families.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.