European nations reject bid to ban Filipino seafarers

French ship FS Var is docked in the Saudi port of Dammam in this 2009 file photo. AFP

MANILA, Philippines—Member states of the European Union have rejected the proposed ban on Filipino seafarers, the International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (Intertanko) said.

Intertanko said the EU member states have endorsed the recommendation from the European Commission (EC) not to de-recognize the Filipino seafarers’ certificates of competency.

However, the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) would continue to undertake inspections to ensure continued compliance.  EU member states to the Philippines would provide technical assistance in ensuring that they are able to comply with their obligations.

“This outcome is welcomed, providing the balance between an outright ban and a clean bill of health. The additional monitoring and technical assistance will provide the added assurance owners need when sourcing seafarers from the Philippines,” Intertanko said in a statement.

In 2013, the EC said Filipino seafarers could lose their jobs in the EU-flagged ships if the Philippines would  fail to correct maritime education flaws.

There are about 100,000 Filipino seamen onboard  ships from the 28-member EU.

RELATED STORIES

EU official on possible ban of Filipino seafarers : Clock is ticking

80,000 seamen may lose jobs, warns Drilon