The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said Tuesday they are set to strengthen regional capacity and harmonize the maritime sector, via high-level forum to be held until Feb. 19.

During a press conference, IMO Director-General Arsenio Dominguez said the Regional Forum on the Effective Implementation of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW) Convention and Code, seeks to respond to ongoing advances and changes in the global maritime sector.

“For two weeks, we will start the 2nd phase of the review of the STCW, which, of course, is very relevant for the Philippines; your input is important to bring this convention to the next steps, to where the future of seafaring is all about,” Dominguez said.

Aside from a comprehensive review of the STCW, the forum will also focus on the transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and programs that benefit the human element of maritime operations.

In particular, Dominguez said the IMO will improve its interim guidelines on the use of alternative fuels such as those based on ethanol, methanol, ammonia, and other fuels with low- or zero-carbon emission.

“As fuels evolve, we need to evolve with them. We will be part of follow-up audits in countries that implement these fuels and other technologies,” he said.

The IMO, according to Dominguez, is looking to promote autonomous ships and improved facilities on board as part of its inclusivity initiative.

“There are very logical ship design aspects that we can address. We are not only attracting but also protecting women seafarers,” he said.

In particular, he highlighted the IMO’s “Safe Horizons” program that seeks to enhance awareness about and deter sexual harassment and violence onboard ships.

The forum brings together senior officials from across the Asia-Pacific region, with the Philippines serving as the host country.

These participants are directly involved in the implementation and oversight of the STCW convention and code.

Other participants include representatives from maritime education and training institutions, shipping companies, fuel suppliers, bunkering operators, and international institutions. (PNA)