The Philippines will make all regular courses at its National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) free from August 3, removing training fees for dozens of programmes required by seafarers and signalling a broader effort to strengthen one of the country’s most globally significant workforces.
The policy covers all 55 of the institution’s regular maritime training courses and follows approval by the Department of Migrant Workers under Memorandum Order No. 360.
Increasing access to training
Officials said the initiative aligns with the government’s objective of improving access to training while reducing the financial burden on Filipino seafarers seeking certification or renewing their qualifications.
“All of our regular maritime training courses at the NMP will now be free of charge. There will be no cost at all, absolutely zero,” NMP Executive Director Victor del Rosario said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
The programme includes mandatory courses under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), covering deck, engine, specialised, safety, security and medical training.
It also extends to non-STCW courses designed to enhance professional skills and improve employability within the global shipping industry.
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Lowering barriers to maritime certification
For many Filipino seafarers, mandatory training represents a recurring expense that must be met before employment or contract renewal.
Eliminating these fees is intended to make certification more accessible while strengthening the competitiveness of Filipino maritime professionals.
Before the policy change, the NMP charged PHP2,700 (about EUR38.69) for its 12-day basic training course; a programme required before seafarers can obtain a Seaman’s Book.
Comparable courses offered by private maritime training institutions typically cost between PHP6,000 (about EUR85.97) and PHP7,000 (about EUR100.30).
Officials expect demand for places to rise significantly once the policy takes effect.
To manage enrolment, the NMP will introduce guidelines covering eligibility, admissions and a prioritisation system.
Priority will first be given to active seafarers and maritime professionals, followed by maritime cadets and students.
Maritime personnel from government agencies and private organisations with existing agreements with the NMP, including the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority, will also be eligible.
The programme will additionally accommodate allied professionals, including graduates in hospitality, security and medical fields seeking employment on passenger and cruise ships.
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Expanding beyond Tacloban
The free training initiative comes alongside plans to expand the NMP’s physical presence beyond its main campus in Tacloban City.
The agency is conducting feasibility studies with the Development Academy of the Philippines for proposed regional training centres in Cavite and Davao.
Relief for seafarers
Seafarer Ian Ramo said mandatory training often coincides with limited periods of shore leave, when workers also face household expenses.
“The offer of free training courses by the NMP is truly a very big help to us,” he said. “These courses are now free, which is important because our vacation time is already limited.”
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Newsjustnews writers 
Lucia Caporalini 
Tyler Lai Sai