THE Philippines and Sierra Leone signed an undertaking agreement on May 20, 2026, establishing the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates.
Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) Executive Director Dr. Daniel Kaitibi signed the document, while Maritime Industry Authority (Marina)-STCW Office Executive Director Samuel Batalla witnessed on behalf of the Philippines.
The agreement was formalized at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters during the 111th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111).
Under the agreement, Sierra Leone will recognize Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates issued by Marina. This enables qualified Filipino seafarers with valid Marina credentials to serve on board Sierra Leone-flagged vessels, subject to Sierra Leonean laws and regulations.
“The partnership underscores the growing maritime partnership between the two countries and reinforces the Philippines’ standing as the world’s leading provider of highly skilled seafarers,” Marina stated following the signing.
The agreement aims to advance maritime training and certification standards between both administrations in compliance with the STCW Convention, as amended. It establishes a synchronized framework for certificate verification and regulatory oversight.
For the Philippines, the agreement is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international maritime cooperation and expand employment opportunities for its maritime workforce. The partnership provides Filipino mariners access to Sierra Leone-registered vessels while maintaining global safety and competency standards.
Source: PH, Sierra Leone sign seafarer certificate recognition agreement | The Manila Times