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Filipino Seafarers
Some 20% of all merchant seafarers come from the
Philippines making it the largest single supply nation to
the world's merchant fleet.
 Despite perceived competition from other supply states,
the numbers of Filipino seafarers onboard are increasing.
According to government sources, in 2006 there were 260,084
Filipino seafarers deployed onboard. This figure represents
a 4.9% growth compared to 2005.
The Philippine government is keen to promote its
seafarers to the industry as the remittances which they send
home have a significant impact on the national economy. The
Philippines Overseas Employment Agency sets a standard
employment contract stipulating the monthly salary of
seafarers. This is comparatively low in international terms
and therefore attractive in the profit-oriented globalised
shipping industry.
Shipping companies also appreciate the general character
of Filipinos and their linguistic and professional
abilities. However the supply of trained Filipino seafarers
is greater than the demand. Those in search of work must try
their luck among the 360 manning agencies in Manila. This
process can be costly and may oblige them to spend time away
from their families.
For recent graduates of maritime schools, competition for
jobs is particularly fierce. Of the 25,000 ordinary and able
seamen who graduate annually, only 8,000 to 10,000 find the
job within a year.
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Training
The Philippines has 89 maritime schools. Every year
60,000 new students enrol. Of these around 25,000 will
complete the three year course successfully. The majority,
around 20,000, will remain at the rank of Ordinary Seaman
(OS) during their career at sea. Only about 5,000 will return
to maritime school after a period of “on the job” training
in order to proceed to the rank of Able Seaman (AB).
Several years ago the Philippines had almost twice the
number of maritime schools, more than the rest of the world
combined. Following a national evaluation process, the
number of schools was reduced to ensure greater adherence to
international standards. |
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