Regional forum on the effective implementation of the STCW Convention and Code
Navigating change: Regional action on STCW Compliance
The IMO, in collaboration with the Government of the Philippines, is hosting a regional forum focusing on the effective implementation of the STCW Convention, which sets out the basic requirements on training, certification and watchkeeping for seafarers on an international level.
A series of panel discussions will cover the opportunities and challenges of training seafarers to use alternative fuels, gender‑responsive maritime governance, and the current gaps and developments in maritime education and training.
Date: 17 - 19 February 2026
Location: Okada Manila, Manila, Philippines
Programme
Please find the programme here and below.
Day 1
- Session 1 - Opening ceremony
- Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- Ms Sonia B. Malaluan, Administrator, Maritime Industry Authority
- Mr Giovanni Z. Lopez, Acting Secretary Department of Transportation, Philippines
- Mr Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr, Ambassador/ Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the IMO, Embassy of the Philippines, United Kingdom
- Session 2 - Introduction by Ms Jean Ver Pia, PhD, Head, Asia and Pacific Section, Subdivision for Maritime Development, Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division, IMO
- Session 3 - Overview on the Comprehensive Review of the STCW Convention, moderation by Ms Jean Ver Pia, IMO
- Session 4 - Opportunities and challenges for seafarers' training on the use of alternative fuels
- Session 5 - Key factors in competency development relating to training on the use of alternative fuels
Day 2
- Session 6 - STCW Code Amendments on Violence and Harassment
- Session 7 - Gender Mainstreaming in Maritime Administration
- Session 8 - Technical Tour (for Conference Delegates only)
Day 3
- Session 9 - Substitution of approved seagoing service with alternative measures
- Session 10 - 21st century skills and non-technical behavioral skills
- Session 11 - Modernization of training requirements versus traditional seafaring skills
- Awarding of Certificates
- Closing Ceremony
- Ms Jean Ver Pia, IMO
- Mr. Samuel Batalla, Standards of Training, Certification and Watckeeping Office, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippines
Comprehensive Review of the STCW Convention and Code
Advances in digitization, automation, and new technologies are transforming ship operations and the skills seafarers need. At the same time, social change is driving greater focus on diversity, gender equality, and increased participation of women in the maritime workforce.
To stay relevant, training and certification systems must evolve. In 2024, IMO launched a comprehensive review of the STCW Convention aims to
ensure that standards of training, certification, and watchkeeping remain
forward-looking, responsive, and firmly anchored on safety, competence, and
professionalism at sea. This work will ensure the STCW Convention continues to support safe, sustainable, and human‑centred maritime operations.
The 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) is the global framework governing seafarer training and certification.