This week’s maritime roundup puts seafarer protection in focus: India and Liberia launch a joint initiative at the G20, India pursues a Black Sea plan to stop attacks on ships, DGMA eases its RPSL cap, a new federation forms in Chennai, and STCW delays and ammonia ships raise training questions.
At Crew Connect Global in Manila, the Philippines, industry speakers warned that the IMO’s comprehensive review of the STCW Code is moving too slowly. The review has found 416 gaps and is due around 2029–2030, by which time AI, digital systems and alternative fuels may have left the rules behind.
More than 10,000 seafarers have trained free of charge at the Philippines’ National Maritime Polytechnic in Tacloban City, Leyte, since course fees were waived in August. The agency expects 15,000 by year-end, as private STCW courses can cost officers around PHP 30,000 each, and plans new regional centres in Cavite and Davao.
The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the EU-Asean Scope Seafarers Project Team recently launched the Maritime Education, Training, and Certification (METC) Master Plan. This initiative aims to modernize training for Filipino seafarers, align with global standards, and promote green shipping practices, reinforcing the Philippines’ leadership in maritime governance.
Hours of rest violations are common at sea but rarely reported. This practical guide explains the STCW and MLC rest rules, why breaches happen, how false records put seafarers at risk, what the IMO is reviewing in 2026, and simple steps to protect your rest and your rights.
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