Philippines retains IMO 'white list' status
The Philippines has retained its IMO "white list" status under the STCW Convention, with MARINA confirming the country's maritime training and certification systems still meet global standards as of July 2026.
NEWS
7/31/20261 min read
The Philippines has reaffirmed its standing as one of the world's top sources of qualified seafarers after the International Maritime Organization confirmed the country's continued compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, or STCW, 1978, as amended.
The IMO's latest circular, MSC.1/Circ.1163/Rev.14, dated July 6, kept the Philippines on the list of parties giving full effect to the STCW Convention. The update follows the outcome of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee's 111th session, held May 13-22.
The listing, commonly known as the IMO "white list," confirms that the country's systems for training, assessing, certifying and overseeing seafarers meet convention standards.
Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan welcomed the news, calling it proof of the country's ongoing commitment to strong maritime governance.
"The Philippines' continued inclusion in the IMO STCW 'White List' affirms the strength of our maritime education, training, certification, and quality standards. More importantly, it reflects the dedication of the entire Philippine maritime sector to ensuring that every Filipino seafarer remains globally competent, internationally compliant, and prepared to meet the evolving demands of the shipping industry," Malaluan said.
The confirmation lands as the Philippines takes an increasingly active hand in shaping global maritime training standards, including its participation in the ongoing comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and the rollout of reforms under Republic Act 12021, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
As the world's leading supplier of maritime professionals, the country continues positioning itself as a driver of safe, efficient and sustainable shipping worldwide.
Images: Maritime Industry Authority