ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine the perceptions of the managers in the shipping and manning companies in the Philippines and the seafarers regarding the nobility of the seafaring profession in the light of the shortage of competent officers. It utilized the interview approach in gathering data. It was found out that in other countries especially in OECD or highly industrialized countries, the youth today are no longer interested in the seafaring profession. Working on board ships is becoming less attractive for students coming out of the schools and colleges. In the past, seafarers were paid better than their peers on shore, and they had the opportunity to travel across the world. In the Philippines, it is still preferred by some students whose fathers or relatives are seafarers. They have seen that the profession is financially rewarding and it is perhaps the best, if not the only way to improve their quality of life. This study also looked into the perceptions and opinions of the practitioners, the master mariners themselves who once also struggled in order to realize their dreams and aspirations in life. Most of the officers interviewed believed that it takes determination and focus in the job in order to be successful. Thus, students aspiring to become officers and ultimately captains or master mariners must study hard, persevere and be disciplined to be able to overcome any problem along the way.

KEYWORDS: Safe Manning, Crewing, Shipping Companies, Maritime Career, Crew Resource Management (CRM), Human Factor (HF)

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