Filipino shipowners and crew can fill the manpower gaps in Eastern Europe due to the war in Ukraine amid amid an improving outlook for Philippine shipping industry.
The Filipino Shipowners Association (FSA) made the announcement Tuesday, May 31, during their press briefing at the Manila Peninsula Hotel, Makati.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICS) pledged to promote a bright future for shipping in the region as whole and the Philippines, specifically, ICS Chairman Esben Poulsson confirmed.
The ICS, of which FSA is a member, accounts for over 80 percent of world tonnage.
For their part, Filipino shipowners’ committed to address the concerns raised by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
Lisbon-based EMSA is the European Union agency charged with reducing the risk of maritime accidents, marine pollution from ships and the loss of human lives at sea.
"Filipinos seafarers comprise 25 percent of the world’s maritime workforce," said FSA Chairman Dario Alampay.
"They are the heart and soul of shipping, and we are determined to advocate for their safe and continuous employment,” he maintained.
The FSA further reiterated that Filipinos can augment any manpower gaps resulting from the evolving situation in eastern Europe.
“Our Filipino seafarers are here to support the industry and ensure the uninterrupted trading of goods required by the world’s people and industries every day,” according to Alampay.
The FSA has been the primary voice of the private overseas shipping industry since its foundation in 1950.