2024 SAFETY4SEA Manila Forum: Empowering seafarers to ensure smooth sailing

The event was organized by SAFETY4SEA having the American Club, MacGregor, and SQE MARINE as the lead sponsors. More sponsors of the event included the following organizations: Arcadia Shipmanagement Co. LTD, Blue Planet Shipping Ltd, Capital-Executive Ship Management Corp., Capital Gas Ship Management Corp., Capital Shipmanagement, Columbia Ship Management, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited (EASTMED), EURONAV, Green Jakobsen A/S, I.M.A. Assessment & Training Center, ISF Group, INTERNATIONAL REGISTRIES, INC., Latsco Marine Management Inc., Magsaysay Maritime Corporation, OneCare Solutions, RISK4SEA, and SEAFiT.

Supporters of the event included: Filipino Association for Mariners’ Employment (FAME), Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific, The Nautical Institute, International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), Marino Ph, Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementers, Inc. (PAEPI), Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMARSEST), and The Maritime League. Also, The Manila Times and Worldoils were the event’s media sponsors.

Opening the event, Apo Belokas, Managing Editor of SAFETY4SEA, welcomed the attendees and speakers, expressing gratitude to all event sponsors and supporters. He also presented key insights from the 2023 SEAFiT Survey, which found that the top priority for seafarers is maintaining communication with their families. In response to the findings of the survey, SAFETY4SEA has initiated a petition urging industry leaders to back free internet access for maritime personnel to improve their welfare. Apo Belokas urged everyone to get involved in the initiative by signing, spreading the word, and participating actively, emphasizing the chance to significantly improve connectivity onboard.

Gerardo Borromeo, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PTC Holdings Corporation, delivered the opening keynote address, highlighting current industry trends such as the advancement of digitalization and decarbonization as maritime operations enter a new era. He emphasized that while these changes present challenges for companies to adapt to, they also pose a reality for many seafarers who struggle to keep up and maintain high standards in their jobs. Therefore, taking into consideration and caring for the welfare of seafarers has become more important than ever.

Focus Presentation: Human factors in decarbonization era

Apo Belokas, the Managing Editor of SAFETY4SEA, delivered a focus presentation which explored the role of human factors in the decarbonization era, as well as the role of human factors in ensuring safety and Port State Control compliance onboard. In his informative presentation, he also emphasized the overlooked importance of investing in the human factor in today’s maritime sector. Furthermore, he pointed out the need for modern training methods that take digitalization into account, and training on non-technical skills that can aid in fostering a safe and inclusive environment onboard.

Session #1 Exploring the role of human factors

During the first panel discussion,  Capt. Nicolo S. Terrei, Director of I.M.A. Assessment and Training Center, Inc., shared his valuable insights on the evolving landscape of maritime training ans emphasized the need for training methods and curriculums to keep pace with the advancements in decarbonization and digitalization.

Additionally, Gerardo Borromeo, Vice-Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, PTC Holdings Corporation, pointed out that there is a significant shortage of skilled seafarers. He emphasized that this shortage is particularly concerning as the maritime industry continues to adopt new technologies and alternative fuels, posing challenges even for experienced seafarers.

Focus Presentation:  The role of human factors in PSC performance

Following the first session, Dimitris Psarros, Business Development Manager at RISK4SEA, delivered a focused presentation on the role of human factors in PSC (Port State Control) performance. He explained that human error is a significant cause of detentions onboard, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation before inspections to reduce the risk of errors. Dimitris Psarros also discussed how automation can assist in creating a detailed deficiency profile of local PSC stations to identify detainable items more effectively.

Focus Presentation: The Role of AR/VR in transforming maritime

Pushkal Kapoor, General Manager, ISF Group, followed with another focus presentation, on new realities for the industry and the role of AR/V. In particular, his presentation explored the impact of the digital wave on the maritime industry and how AR/VR technologies are transforming training landscapes. Furthermore, Pushkal Kapoor highlighted the importance of proactively fostering safety at sea through simulation and digitalized applications.

Session #2 Soft skills and training

Leo M.  Bolivar, Country Manager, International Registries (Far East) Limited, delivered a presentation focused on the significance of soft skills for a maritime leader. He emphasized that soft skills are vital for ensuring safety and efficiency in maritime operations. Additionally, Leo M.  Bolivar also pointed out various core soft skills essential for maritime leaders to effectively manage and lead their teams, ultimately contributing to the overall success and safety of maritime operations.

Dr. Mike Morales, President, MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy, thoroughly explored leadership dynamics in his presentation, analyzing various cultural and psychological factors that influence the relationship between leaders and followers. Dr. Morales also explained that effective leadership enhances safety standards. Moreover, according to the presenter, effective leadership requires targeted coaching. As a result, he advocated for training leaders who can assess each individual and situation, adapting their approach accordingly.

Sundeep Sequeira, Sales Director at OneLearn Global, part of the OneCare Group, discussed current trends shaping the maritime industry and their impact on training methods and requirements. Furthermore, the presentation emphasized the importance of soft skills training for crew members. As the presenter noted, this approach not only helps crew members on a personal level, but also enhances their relationships with crewmates, contributing to a safer and more cooperative environment.

Giovanni Tuapin, President, Hartmann Crew Philippines, Inc., delivered a presentation that focused on the importance of integrating soft skills training alongside technical skills in the maritime industry. He emphasized that in the current transformation of the maritime sector, technical skills alone are no longer sufficient. To bridge the skills gap, there needs to be a concerted effort to develop soft skills among crew members, shoreside personnel, and leadership. Giovanni Tuapin also highlighted the challenges in implementing organization-wide soft skills training, particularly in tailoring programs to meet the diverse needs of different groups within the industry.

Pushkal Kapoor, General Manager, ISF Group, highlighted during panel discussions that soft skills are vital for ensuring safety onboard. Clear and effective communication can be crucial in ensuring safety and efficiency onboard ships. Crew members must be able to understand and convey information accurately to avoid misunderstandings and potential hazards. That is why the maritime industry should adapt its training methods to include the development of soft skills.

Focus Presentation: The Maritime League Event, BEACON EXPO 2024

Blanca Joy Bustamante, Business Development Manager, The Maritime League, presented key info about the BEACON 2024 event, which is set to take place from September 30 to October 2 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Philippines. The event focuses on the “Oceans of Opportunity; Sustaining Blue Economy in the Philippines” theme and covers topics like maritime logistic chain and maritime security. It includes a 3-day conference, exhibitions, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and innovators.

Session #3 Crew wellness and resilience

Dr. Christian Angelo P. Lubaton, Medical Director, Nordic Medical Clinic, presented ways that a holistic approach to crew welfare can be fostered. His presentation also emphasized the importance of a deliberate and intentional design of a healthy lifestyle for crew members. As he explained, while internal motivation is beneficial, it is the sustained commitment to lifestyle design that determines long-term success or failure. Furthermore, Dr. Lubaton highlighted the importance of providing onshore support and improving living conditions onboard to prioritize the welfare and health of the crew.

Chester Quintal, Helpline Manager, International Seafarers’​ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN), delved into the various issues reported by seafarers who reach out to ISWAN’s helplines, highlighting relevant trends in the industry. Chester Quintal also provided valuable insights and information on seafarers’ welfare, particularly focusing on issues impacting their mental wellbeing. His presentation also offered an array of practical solutions to enhance the overall wellness and resilience of seafarers, addressing the challenges they face at sea, and providing support through the helpline services.

Allan Raymund Olano, General Manager, Philippines, Green Jakobsen Inc., focused on the importance of psychological safety for high performance among maritime crews. He discussed the definition of psychological safety, its impact on performance and collective intelligence, and the role of on-board leaders in fostering an open and trusting atmosphere. Alan also introduced the Human Performance Dashboard, which allows vessels, fleets, or organizations to visually assess their performance in various areas, including psychological safety.

During the panel session, Jose Albar G. Kato, Vice President for Internal Affairs, FAME, offered his insight into the current needs of seafarers and what they look for in a company both before they are recruited and afterwards. Meanwhile, Stella Kiss, General Manager, Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), highlighted the importance of mental health in ensuring a happy and safe crew that can keep up with the demanding conditions of living and working at sea.

Session #4 Seafarers’ panel

In this panel discussion, seafarers provided a firsthand perspective on the current challenges the maritime industry has to face, particularly relating to personnel onboard ships. They shared insights into the realities of working and living at sea and offered career guidance, highlighting the various aspects that make the maritime industry an attractive career choice for younger individuals. Additionally, the speakers addressed ways to improve crew welfare and identified key issues that need to be addressed to improve crew welfare.

In Philippines, the heart of seafaring nation, it became apparent through this panel discussion that seafarers have a lot to offer, and voices need to be heard and understood. SAFETY4SEA would like to thank the following seafarers who participated in the panel and shared their messages across the industry: Jeffrey Aldas, Chief Officer, Philippines Coordinator, Adopt-A-Ship; Arvin Alonzo, Chief Mate, Döhle Seafront Crewing (Manila), Inc.; Brix John Cordova, Third Mate, Döhle Seafront Crewing (Manila), Inc.; Ismael Ibarra, Second Officer, Magsaysay Maritime Corporation and Arcadia Shipmanagement Co. Ltd; Marianne Camille Pastolero, Fourth Engineer, Grindrod Shipping Pte Ltd; Jhovine Delos Reyes, Second Officer, Magsaysay Maritime Corporation; and Chris Joseph C. Soledad, Second Officer, PTC Ship Management;

Session #5 Experience transfer and best practices

Capt. Fanis Chatzikampouris, Vetting Manager & CSO, HSQE & Crew Dept Overseer at Arcadia Shipmanagement Co Ltd, presented on the challenges and requirements for seafarers in adapting to new technology systems on vessels’ engines and managing new fuels. He emphasized the need for adequate skills, education, training, and familiarization for seafarers up to 2050. He also highlighted the importance of developing appropriate safety management procedures for emergency response and other hazardous events, as well as the need for enhanced non-technical skills, such as maintaining situational awareness and recognizing potential hazards.

Dr. Angelica Baylon, External Relations Director at MAAP, presented on the importance of experience transfer and best practices in the maritime industry. She supported the idea that promoting the transfer of experience and best practices beyond compliance can drive continuous improvement, foster innovation, and enhance sustainability and competitiveness. She also pointed out the significance of embracing a collaborative mindset, leveraging emerging technologies, and prioritizing safety and sustainability to chart a course towards a brighter future for the maritime community and the global economy.

Jay Babera, Vice President of PH Crewing Operations at OSM Thome, shared key highlights from the OSM Thome Cares Program during his presentation. As explained, the program adopts a holistic approach that emphasizes building life relationships, not just work relationships, among crew members. According to the presenter, this comprehensive approach prioritizes crew welfare by addressing various needs, including spiritual, mental, social, and physical well-being.

During the last panel discussion, Atty. Iris Baguilat, President of Döhle Seafront Crewing (Manila), Inc., advocated for a holistic approach to fostering crew welfare. She emphasized that a happy crew leads to a safe crew, and highlighted that addressing welfare challenges can make the maritime industry more attractive, thereby facilitating the recruitment of new seafarers.

EXPLORE MORE ABOUT THE 2024 SAFETY4SEA manila FORUM HERE