TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has unveiled its comprehensive plans for 2025, aimed at advancing maritime education and training in the country. Guided by its mission to enhance the competencies and empower the maritime workforce, NMP presented these initiatives during its CY 2025 Planning Exercise held on January 17, 2025, at the Seaside Hall, Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City.
NMP will continue to strengthen its core programs by offering training and developing STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) mandatory courses, ensuring that seafarers’ competencies meet the highest international standards. The agency will also conduct research studies to inform policy development and program enhancement, addressing the evolving needs of the global maritime industry.
Additionally, NMP is focused on expanding its reach and impact. This includes plans to establish regional training centers in Davao and Luzon, with a feasibility study already underway for an expansion in Cavite. To further support seafarers, NMP envisions the establishment of a Maritime Resource Center that will serve as a hub for seafarer-related data, policy development, and helpline support.
To improve efficiency and accessibility, NMP intends to apply for accreditation with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as an assessment center. The agency will also propose a new organizational structure and staffing pattern to the Department of Migrant Workers, aligned with the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11641 and Republic Act No. 12021. Furthermore, NMP will prioritize the mainstreaming of Gender and Development (GAD) mechanisms throughout its operations, as mandated by the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
To enhance accessibility, NMP currently offers 30 free courses and will explore the possibility of extending this to all courses, excluding professional development courses.
A key initiative for 2025 is the proposed Research Summit/Maritime Education and Training (MET) Congress. This event will gather stakeholders from across the maritime industry, including industry leaders, to address sector challenges and explore growth opportunities in response to emerging trends such as automation, digitalization, and environmental regulations. The summit will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and showcasing the capabilities of MET institutions and suppliers. To ensure the event’s success, NMP is actively seeking partnerships with potential sponsors or organizations for cost-sharing opportunities.
“These efforts are a testament to NMP’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the maritime sector,” said NMP Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario. “By expanding our services and fostering collaboration, we aim to empower the workforce and drive sustainable progress for the Philippine maritime industry.”
Through these plans, NMP reaffirms its vision of “leading the future in developing competent and globally preferred maritime workforce,” strengthening its role as a vital partner in the maritime industry’s growth and progress.