Global Demand For Filipino Seafarers Rises As Shipping And Offshore Sectors Expand

The demand for Filipino seafarers is increasing steadily, with industry projections showing 5% to 7% annual growth over the next 12 to 18 months.

According to ATPI Travel Philippines, the expansion of international fleets and the recovery of cruise and offshore sectors are the main reasons behind this rise.

ATPI Philippines managing director Yvette Araullo said demand for Filipino crew has increased over the past year, particularly in offshore energy, short-sea container services and passenger vessels.

She indicated that emerging regional hubs are contributing to this growth and explained that ATPI is investing in technology, airline partnerships and local infrastructure to meet rising requirements.

According to the BIMCO/International Chamber of Shipping Seafarer Workforce Report 2024, around 1.89 million seafarers currently serve on internationally trading merchant ships. The report breaks this down into 857,540 officers and 1,035,180 ratings, showing the size and competition of the global maritime workforce.

Araullo said changes in fleet patterns are affecting how Filipino seafarers are deployed worldwide. She highlighted the need for more digital tools and quicker operational processes to support crew movements. She added that the sector is also adjusting to tighter crew rotations, increased group movements and a stronger focus on ensuring timely and safe crew changes.

To meet these demands, ATPI has increased its data-visibility tools, improved travel-management systems and strengthened partnerships with airlines and marine agencies across major transit hubs. These steps help ensure enough flight capacity for urgent crew changes and make coordination between shipowners, manning agencies and travel partners more efficient.

ATPI uses digital platforms such as CrewHub and CrewLink to manage crew travel from booking to real-time tracking and reporting. Its Travel Tracking System (TTS) provides live location updates, risk alerts and instant communication with travelling crew as part of duty-of-care measures.

Araullo said the rise of major regional hubs like Singapore, Dubai and Doha means crew planning now requires more flexibility and better communication between all parties involved. She said ATPI is responding by offering real-time data and technology-based solutions to meet the operational demands of ship operators.

ATPI recently expanded its operations in the Philippines by opening a World Support Centre (WSC) in Manila. The facility operates 24/7 and offers a full range of marine and travel-management services.

ATPI added that the Philippines remains one of its most important sources of crew because of its large pool of skilled and English-proficient seafarers.

References: manilastandard, malaya

Source: Maritime Shipping News