e-Sea app validates authenticity of seafarer documents digitally

A GROUNDBREAKING mobile app, designed by Filipino innovators, is poised to revolutionize the verification process for seafarer documents, marking a crucial step toward the digitalization of the seafaring industry. The e-Sea App brings a new level of security and convenience to the sector, empowering users to digitally verify the authenticity of certificates and other essential paperwork. This modern solution streamlines the certification renewal process and makes compliance with global industry standards more accessible. By addressing one of the most pressing issues in the seafaring industry — the proliferation of fraudulent certificates of competency (COC) — the app sets a new standard for document validation, its makers said. "Our goal is to ensure the Philippines maintains its position as the world's leading supplier of seafarers by guaranteeing the authenticity of their documents," said Jan Hart, chief executive officer and founder of United Training Services (UTS). "Both seafarers and shipowners can use this app to verify credentials," he added. The e-Sea App is a collaborative effort between UTS, an international training management service; the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP); and the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (Amosup). The app is offered free of charge to all Filipino seafarers. "This initiative is part of Amosup's welfare services, ensuring that certificates are verified and recognized worldwide, especially by Port State Control inspectors," said Vice Admiral Eduardo Ma R Santos, president of MAAP. Enhanced document security and storage Beyond verification, the e-Sea App serves as a secure digital document storage platform, allowing users to access, manage and renew their documents through mobile devices — both online and offline. This eliminates the need for physical copies and reduces the risk of losing crucial paperwork while at sea. "The app will significantly ease the burden for our seafarers," said Conrado Oca, president of Amosup. "No more carrying bulky paper documents, and no more worries about lost or damaged certificates that can delay transit and deployment." Oca emphasized that this initiative aligns with Amosup's commitment to improving the lives of Filipino seafarers, ensuring they remain competitive in the global maritime industry. "This is a milestone in the modernization of the seafaring sector, providing Filipino seafarers with the tools they need to excel in a rapidly digitizing world," Hart added. "The e-Sea App is designed to make life easier for all Filipino seafarers, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and community engagement within the maritime industry." In addition to its document verification and storage capabilities, the e-Sea App functions as a community hub for Filipino seafarers, offering access to industry news, updates and developments. This feature aims to foster a sense of connection and shared knowledge among seafarers. The app is a comprehensive digital tool that offers a wide range of features, including online training courses, certification management, job postings, and a community forum for seafarers to connect and exchange information. By leveraging technology, it aims to bridge the gap between seafarers and industry stakeholders, fostering a more efficient and interconnected maritime ecosystem. "The app, which we provide for free to all seafarers, is a testament to the country's ongoing leadership in the industry. The launch of the e-Sea app marks a significant milestone in modernizing the seafaring industry and providing Filipino seafarers with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world," Edmund Gittenberger, co-founder and chief technology officer of UTS, said. The app was officially launched on Friday, September 27, alongside the opening of a dedicated office at the Amosup Building in Intramuros, Manila.