As reported by the Center for Research and Communication (CRC), Filipino seafarers and the manning industry are projected to contribute approximately ₱1.06 trillion to the economy in 2024, underscoring their vital role in bolstering national financial health.
This groundbreaking study, a collaboration between CRC and the Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (ALMA Maritime Group), reveals that the maritime sector accounts for about 4% of the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while providing nearly 400,000 jobs nationwide.
The findings indicate that Filipino seafarers will generate ₱150.1 billion in household income this year alone, alongside direct remittances amounting to ₱331.7 billion. These funds circulate through various sectors including housing, education, food services, transportation, and local businesses.
Dr. Winston Padojinog from CRC elaborated on how each peso sent home by a seafarer has a multiplying effect within different industries-essentially creating nearly three pesos worth of economic activity due to these multipliers.
The report attributes much of this economic impact to foreign shipowners’ preference for hiring Filipino crews. ALMA highlighted that when shipowners engage Filipino workers, entire communities benefit from expenditures related to training programs, medical services, accommodations before deployment, and necessary government fees.
A robust domestic network supporting onshore jobs-from crewing agencies and logistics firms to training institutions-was also emphasized as crucial for sustaining this ecosystem; however, it relies heavily on maintaining global trust in Filipino maritime professionals.
The study warns against complacency regarding workforce confidence; any erosion could lead shipowners to reconsider their hiring practices due to regulatory uncertainties or fierce international competition-a shift that could jeopardize ₱1.06 trillion in economic activity along with thousands of jobs at stake.
In light of these challenges posed by competing nations vying for similar roles within the maritime sector, ALMA stressed the importance of preserving shipowner trust as essential for future growth.
To fortify this critical industry further, ALMA has put forth five key reforms:
Atty. Iris Baguilat from ALMA noted indirectly that instability in policy could undermine the competitive edge enjoyed by Filipino seafarers while diminishing shipowner confidence significantly.
