MARINO Partylist Representative Sandro Gonzalez urges the current administration under President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to hasten the resolution of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) standards deficiencies regarding local seafarer training and education.
This after the statement of the Philippine President during an interview with reporters as he flew to Brussels, Belgium for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-European Union (ASEAN-EU) Summit.
“President Marcos is correct, this is our last chance. There are more than 50,000 seafarers who are endangered of losing their jobs in Europe-based shipping companies if the PH government do not act upon it as soon as possible,” Rep. Gonzalez said. “This issue has been open for years and we are still navigating our way on how to resolve it effectively.”
MARINO is an active stakeholder and participant in supporting and aiding the Maritime Industry Authority and other government agencies as they reckon corrective measures for the deficiencies identified by EMSA and the independent evaluation of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
“Filipino seafarers continue to be an asset to our economy. We hope the President will remain consistent on putting forward his support to our sector, especially in presenting his priority agenda with other countries,” He added. “Let us remind ourselves that Pinoy seamen are the most preferred internationally, and we must be proactive in protecting their welfare and job opportunities.” Rep. Gonzalez said.
The Partylist continues to fight for the passage of the Magna Carta of Seafarers and the Maritime Education and Training Bill in the Congress.#####
