Mintra has signed an MOU with the Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to integrate digital learning, AI, and workforce management tools into the national training framework for Filipino seafarers. The partnership aims to align workforce capabilities with evolving global maritime demands, including digitalization, new fuel technologies, and industry sustainability.
Manila, Philippines | June 25, 2026 – Marking the annual Day of the Seafarer, Mintra has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Maritime Industry Authority of the Philippines (MARINA). The partnership establishes a collaborative framework to integrate advanced digital learning and workforce management solutions into the national development of Filipino maritime professionals.
As the Philippines supplies approximately 25% of the global merchant fleet, the initiative addresses the critical need to future-proof one of the world’s most vital maritime workforces against the rapid adoption of new fuels, artificial intelligence (AI), and increasingly complex shipboard operations.
Aligning with the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP)
The collaboration is designed to support MARINA’s Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP), specifically focusing on enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the Philippine maritime sector.
Key pillars of the partnership include:
- Digital Transformation: Leveraging AI and data analytics to optimize maritime education and training.
- Competence Tracking: Utilizing Mintra’s Trainingportal for digital certification and real-time visibility of workforce skills.
- Operational Readiness: Connecting theoretical learning with practical decision-making and behaviors required for modern safety-critical environments.
- Inclusion: Launching targeted initiatives to encourage greater participation and professional development opportunities for women in the maritime industry.
Strengthening Global Maritime Ties
The agreement, supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, highlights the enduring maritime synergy between Norway and the Philippines.
“Norway and the Philippines share deep maritime ties,” stated Geir Michalsen, Charge d’Affaires of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila. “This MOU reflects the practical, international collaboration needed to address modern seafaring challenges across digitalisation, sustainability, and workforce development.”
Kevin Short, CEO of Mintra, emphasized the role of digital innovation in this transition:
“Ensuring people have the right skills, knowledge, and support will be critical to [the industry’s] future success. This collaboration provides Mintra and MARINA with an opportunity to explore how modern learning approaches and competence management can strengthen workforce capability.“
A newly formed Joint Coordinating Committee will oversee the implementation of the agreement, tasked with developing specific action plans, timelines, and measurable outcomes for the training initiatives.
About Mintra
Mintra is a global leader in digital learning and human capital management for safety-critical industries. Headquartered in Bergen, Norway, the company supports 2.8 million workers and 4,000 companies worldwide. Its Trainingportal and OCS HR systems serve nearly 15,000 vessels, providing a vast portfolio of maritime-approved training courses compliant with NMA, DNV, and other international regulatory standards. Through recent strategic growth, including the acquisition of Seably and Moxie Media, Mintra maintains a global network of specialists dedicated to addressing the complex HR, payroll, and training requirements of the maritime and energy sectors.
Source: Mintra