The August 2020 data of the country’s Maritime Industry Administration (MARINA) listed 498 accredited maritime enterprises involved in overseas shipping services. It includes crewing/ manning and general shipping businesses.

In terms of maritime manpower, the Philippines, according to the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), is among the top supplier of maritime workforce in the world together with China, Indonesia, the Russian Federation and Ukraine. Prior to the pandemic, data from the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) and Department of Labor and Employment suggest that Filipino seamen comprise more than 25% of the worldwide maritime workforce. In 2019, the sea-based sector contributed $6.14 billion remittance to the Philippine government.

International shipment companies prefer to hire Filipino crew for its equally competitive qualities in workplace and English language proficiency.  It is understood hence that crewing/ manning agencies and all other companies involved in the maritime industry are to practice international standards in business operations as provided by the International Standard Organizations (ISO).