The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has launched specialized training for 31 technical personnel to strengthen the country’s ship condition survey and inspection, in partnership with the International Maritime Safety Security Environment Academy (IMSSEA).

IMSSEA is an international branch of the Italian Shipping Academy that provides specialized training and technical assistance to maritime and port personnel to strengthen maritime safety, security and environmental protection.

In a statement on Friday, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan said the training is part of the agency’s continuing efforts to strengthen flag state administration, improve the competence of its surveyors and ensure consistent implementation of maritime safety standards.

“The quality of inspections and soundness of technical decisions directly affect passenger and crew safety, property protection, and the preservation of the marine environment,” Malaluan said.

Under its flag state administration functions, MARINA must ensure that Philippine-registered ships comply with applicable safety standards and that their actual condition conforms to the certificates they carry.

The Flag State Implementation course commenced on Oct. 13, with the Ship Condition Surveyor course scheduled from Oct. 19 to 30.

The Flag State Implementation course focuses on the obligations of maritime administrations and the implementation and enforcement of maritime standards.

The Ship Condition Surveyor course covers planning and preparation of ship surveys, interpretation of survey requirements and the identification of implementation and enforcement issues. Participants will also learn about the implications of noncompliance, including the possible detention of vessels.

Italian maritime expert Capt. Federigo Ribechini, a safety and security specialist in ship inspection and an IMSSEA auditor, serves as the training lecturer.

IMSSEA Project Manager Carmen Giordano emphasized the value of international cooperation in maritime training.

Malaluan said effective ship inspection requires more than identifying deficiencies, and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained in their respective offices and share their expertise with colleagues to help standardize inspection practices across MARINA offices.

Also present during the opening program as observers were Overseas Shipping Service Director Ramon Hernandez and Maritime Safety Service Director Divinagracia Tolosa. (PNA)