Oman Announces Visa-Free Entry for Tourists and Crew to Boost Tourism

Oman has introduced a free 10-day visit visa for tourists and cruise ship crew members to boost tourism. The initiative aims to attract more visitors and stimulate the tourism industry. Tourists can also apply for a one-month visa. This move is part of Oman’s efforts to make the country more accessible and promote its cultural and natural attractions.

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IMO Initiates Training Programs for Women in Maritime

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is implementing training programs for women in ASEAN and Pacific regions to promote gender diversity in maritime careers. These initiatives focus on digitalization and environmental competencies, providing networking opportunities and fellowships. By collaborating with regional Women in Maritime Associations, the programs aim to empower women and enhance leadership skills in the seafaring community.

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A Cosco multipurpose and heavy lift ship at the Port of Guayaquil in Ecuador. PHOTO from ICTSI

Philippines Maritime Authority Proposes STCW Revisions in Stakeholder Forum

The Maritime Industry Authority of Philippines conducted a review of draft proposals to update the STCW Convention for current and future maritime challenges. In a session called “Usapang STCW,” stakeholders provided feedback on proposed revisions. Key topics discussed included digitalization, simulator training, seafarers’ welfare, and harmonization measures for regulation implementation.

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Urgent Reform Needed for Seafarers’ Fatigue and Long Work Hours

The World Maritime University’s study reveals that seafarers endure long working hours and lack adequate rest, leading to significant fatigue levels. “Quantifying an inconvenient truth” report shows that only 3.3% of seafarers meet the global average of 43 weekly working hours. Aligning maritime working hours with international labor standards is crucial to protect seafarers’ well-being.

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Philippines DMW Protects Seafarers’ Rights Against Dangerous Shipping Routes

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is cracking down on ship owners who force Filipino seafarers to sail through dangerous waters like the Gulf of Aden amidst Houthi attacks. DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stressed the importance of respecting seafarers’ right to refuse boarding in high-risk areas near Yemen, with sanctions for non-compliance.

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Global Shipping Industry Urged to Enhance Seafarer Well-Being and Combat Abuse in New Report

A recent report by the Diversity@Sea pilot initiative highlights the pressing need for the global shipping industry to enhance working conditions for seafarers. Shocking statistics reveal high rates of abuse and harassment at sea, with recommendations for zero tolerance policies, improved contracts, and better support systems for seafarers with family responsibilities.

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Urgent Call for Improved Safety Regulations to Prevent Enclosed Space Deaths

The Maritime Professional Council of the United Kingdom (MPC) and InterManager are deeply concerned about the high number of deaths in enclosed spaces in the shipping industry. With 31 known deaths in 2023 alone, calls for industry-wide collaboration for safety improvements have been made. A pan-maritime industry group has been formed to address this issue.

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Filipino Seafarers Safely Repatriated Amid Houthi Attacks in Red Sea

The first group of 14 Filipino crew members from the SW Northwind Vessel 1 safely returned to the Philippines with OWWA’s assistance after multiple attacks by Houthi rebels. Financial aid, food, and transportation allowances were provided. 99 OFWs from Kuwait and Lebanon were also repatriated, emphasizing the challenges faced by Filipino workers in conflict zones.

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IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey Now Open world-wide

The global call for gender diversity in the maritime sector has been reinforced with the launch of the Women in Maritime Survey. IMO Secretary-General urges participation from governments, companies, and organizations to promote diversity and create inclusive workplaces. The survey, conducted every three years, aims to increase female participation in maritime activities and inform progressive policies.

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