Drilon: Pinoy seafarers losing competitive edge

MARIVELES, BATAAN — Senate President Franklin M. Drilon challenged maritime schools yesterday to uphold the country’s reputation as the "manning capital of the world."

Speaking before 132 graduates of the Maritime Academy of Asia and of the Pacific (MAAP) here, Drilon warned that the Philippines may lose its position as the "biggest supplier of skilled workers on board ships of various flags" to cheaper labor from countries like China.

"Maintaining the country’s status as manning capital of the world is a challenge we have to address. I believe that education is the key. We can compete with seamen of other countries if (our sailors) are competent, professional and are above par with international standards," he said.

Drilon cited a report by Lloyd’s Ship Manager (LSM) that the higher wages of Filipino sailors made the country less attractive to employers. — Raffy Viray