Manila, Feb. 17 -- The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said Tuesday they are set to strengthen regional capacity and harmonize the maritime sector, via high-level forum to be held until Feb. 19.

During a press conference at Okada Manila before the start of the discussions, IMO Director-General Arsenio Dominguez said the Regional Forum on the Effective Implementation of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW) Convention and Code, seeks to respond to ongoing advances and changes in the global maritime sector.

"For two weeks, we will start the 2nd phase of the review of the STCW, which, of course, is very relevant...