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Filipino seafarers and the manning industry generated ₱1.06 trillion in economic impact in 2024, contributing around 4% of the country’s GDP.
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The sector supports nearly 400,000 jobs and creates strong household income and remittances that circulate across local industries.
The study warns that losing shipowners’ confidence could immediately risk ₱1.06 trillion in activity and thousands of livelihoods.
Filipino Seafarers Drive Jobs and Household Income
According to the reports, the sector supports almost 400,000 jobs across the country and contributes around 4% of the Philippines’ GDP.
Seafarers generated ₱150.1 billion in household income and sent ₱331.7 billion in remittances, which circulated through industries like housing, food, education, and transport.
CRC President Dr Winston Padojinog noted that every peso sent home multiplies across the economy, with nearly ₱3 coming back through industry activity.
Shipowners’ Trust Remains a Key Advantage
As reported by The Marine Insight, the study confirmed that foreign shipowners strongly prefer Filipino crew, and this trust fuels much of the industry’s strength.
ALMA explained that entire communities benefit when shipowners hire Filipinos, as spending goes into training, medical services, hotels, and government fees before deployment.
However, the report warns that this trust must never be taken for granted.
If shipowners lose confidence — whether due to regulatory issues or global competition — “ships leave when confidence breaks.” This would immediately put ₱1.06 trillion and thousands of jobs at risk.
A Wide Network of Onshore Jobs
The seafaring sector supports a large ecosystem of local jobs:
crewing agencies, logistics teams, training centres, medical providers, insurance firms, and service companies.
If trust weakens, this entire network would be affected.
ALMA Chairman Atty. Iris Baguilat cautioned that unstable policies may weaken the country’s competitive advantage and reduce shipowners’ willingness to hire Filipinos.
Five Reforms Proposed to Protect the Industry
To strengthen the sector, the study recommends several urgent reforms:
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A “Blue Check” certification for ethical and compliant manning agencies
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A tiered penalty and enforcement matrix for fair regulation
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A modernised tax administration with clear timelines and online tracking
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An overhaul of Voluntary Arbitration at the NCMB
- Continued support for Magna Carta reforms and EMSA compliance
These reforms aim to maintain global confidence and protect long-term employment.
Supporting Seafarers Beyond Their Time at Sea
Beyond economic contributions, the report highlights the social impact of seafarers.
Every Filipino working at sea supports a household on land, funding education, daily needs, and long-term family stability.
The study also stresses the need for programmes that help retiring seafarers shift into training, management, or regulatory work, ensuring their experience strengthens the maritime industry.
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Source: Marine insight
