July 01, 2024 — 4 min read

With over 7000 islands, the Philippines relies heavily on a robust maritime industry. The marine industry in the Philippines is undergoing a significant transformation driven by the integration of advanced technologies. Approximately 98% of inter-island trade and 40 million local and foreign passengers are transported by sea. Over 25% of the world’s 1.6 million maritime professionals are Filipino (Philippines | MEPSEAS, n.d.). This evolution is particularly evident due to Marine Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), which marks a pivotal transformation in the maritime landscape, offering a sophisticated approach to optimizing industry practices. 

Demand for Filipino Seafarers Continues to Grow

For years, the Philippines has been a dominant force in the maritime sector, providing skilled seafarers and playing a crucial role in global shipping. Filipino seafarers, known for their exceptional performance and substantial contributions, are highly esteemed worldwide. With over 600,000 Filipinos employed in maritime roles, the Philippines stands as the leading source of seafarers globally. Their professionalism, adaptability, and rigorous training have consistently earned them the favor of foreign shipowners, reassuring the industry of their versatility (Dacera, 2023).

Modernizing Philippines Maritime: MARINA’s Vision

To continue their dominance in the maritime sector, Filipino seafarers must embrace innovation, upskill, and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. Recently, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has taken proactive steps towards forging key partnerships and initiatives. One such initiative is the partnership with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to establish financing packages tailored to the industry. This collaboration formalized through a memorandum of agreement during the 7th PhilMarine 2022 event in Manila, is a beacon of hope for the industry. It aims to provide attractive financing programs that support strategic projects within the maritime sector. These efforts are part of the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP), a comprehensive blueprint designed to elevate the domestic shipping industry’s capabilities over the next decade. By enhancing financing options, embracing digital innovation, and strengthening regulatory frameworks, MARINA is paving the way for a more competitive and resilient maritime sector poised for future growth and development (Lagniton, 2022)

Automation: Reducing Mundane Task and Elevating Productivity

The maritime industry is empowering Filipino seafarers through a significant transformation in the age of digitalization. Innovative technologies are reshaping their roles and interactions within the global shipping ecosystem. Automation and advanced technologies are increasingly replacing manual tasks, allowing Filipino seafarers to enhance their skills and embrace innovative solutions in their careers. These advancements boost operational efficiency, improve safety, and promote environmental sustainability. Key benefits of this empowerment include:

1. Embracing technologies like autonomous vessels and advanced navigation systems is not just about skill enhancement. It is about opening doors to new career opportunities for Filipino seafarers, fostering their growth and optimism in the face of industry changes.
2. Automation is a critical ally in the quest for improved safety standards. Reducing the likelihood of human error leads to enhanced safety measures and a safer working environment for seafarers, ensuring their peace of mind and well-being.
3. Environmental Sustainability: Advanced technologies help minimize carbon emissions and waste, creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly maritime industry.

Moreover, several maritime software solutions are revolutionizing daily operations for Filipino seafarers. These digital applications offer enhanced convenience and efficiency, streamlining work processes and providing access to critical data. Popular maritime software solutions that benefit Filipino mariners include:

1. Crew Management Systems: Simplify crew scheduling, payroll, and human resource tasks, improving communication, documentation, and overall efficiency.
2. Vessel Tracking and Performance Monitoring: Real-time tracking and data analysis tools optimize vessel performance and inform seafarers about potential hazards and operational issues.
3. Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS): User-friendly navigation systems enhance chart accuracy and safety during sea navigation (Opportunities And Challenges For Filipino Seafarers, 2024).

Future Outlook of the Marine Industry

As the maritime industry becomes increasingly digitized, Filipino workers’ adoption of advanced technologies is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. Recognizing this need, the Philippine government has included digital transformation as a critical component in its Philippine Development Plan. Its core program for the future aims to modernize and expand domestic and overseas shipping and to promote highly skilled and competitive Filipino workers, highlighting their integral role in the industry’s future.  Furthermore, regarding environmental sustainability, they look forward to enhancing maritime transport safety and security and implementing sustainable maritime innovation and transportation. This integration of cutting-edge technology in the Philippine marine sector enhances operational efficiency and positions the country to maintain its status as a global naval leader. As the industry embraces these digital solutions, it sets sail toward a future characterized by increased productivity, improved safety standards, and sustainable growth (Pablo. 2023).

Springboard Marine Management ERP (MMERP) 

The demand for marine ERP technologies in the Philippines is high, but few solutions exist. Springboard stepped in to fill this gap and created an ERP system that has become a top investment for both the company and its clients. Springboard’s MMERP helps shipping, logistics, and workforce agencies integrate data for better decisions and complete transparency. It provides clear communication channels, creating quick feedback loops that benefit all departments. The system tracks and coordinates personnel and equipment across land and sea, allowing clients to move employees from repetitive tasks to more productive work, boosting overall efficiency. Automate your processes with Springboard’s technology to reduce repetitive tasks and free up your employees for more effective work, increasing profits and reducing workload.

For more information, visit our website, Springboard Philippines, or contact us at [email protected] for the latest updates and opportunities.

References

Dacera, M. I. (2023, November 30). The Role of Filipino Seafarers in the Global Maritime Industry: A Comprehensive Analysis. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/role-filipino-seafarers-global-maritime-industry-dacera-mba-mmm-dkc5c/

Lagniton, L. (2022, July 26). Philippine pushes forward with modernizing shipping industry. Maritime 

Fairtrade. Retrieved July 1, 2024, from https://maritimefairtrade.org/philippine-pushes-forward-modernizing-shipping-industry/

Opportunities And Challenges For Filipino Seafarers. (2024, March 6). Seaman Solutions. Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://seaman-solutions.com/filipino-seafarers-age-of-digital-transformation/

Pablo, R. (2023, March 2). MARINA updates maritime industry development plan. PortCalls. Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://portcalls.com/marina-updates-maritime-industry-development-plan/

Philippine Healthcare Expands with Health and Wellness Mobile App – OpenGov Asia. (2021, August 9). OpenGov Asia. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://opengovasia.com/2021/08/09/philippine-healthcare-expanded-with-its-first-health-and-wellness-mobile-app/

Philippines | MEPSEAS. (n.d.). mepseas. Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://mepseas.imo.org/about/countries/philippines