By Veronica Uy
About 130,000 Filipino seafarers are set to gain access to training in green technologies through a new partnership between the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) and Danish startup Aprendio.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed during the official visit of Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, aims to expand the Green Skills Academy’s offerings to AMOSUP members, primarily seafarers and engineers.
The academy will provide a strong foundation in green technologies, equipping Filipino maritime professionals for future roles in the global green transition, especially with Danish companies seeking skilled workers in sustainable industries, according to the Danish Embassy in the Philippines.
The agreement was among five key documents signed during Minister Rasmussen’s two-day visit to the Philippines on December 9-10. This marked the first visit by a Danish foreign minister in 25 years, reflecting a renewed commitment to strengthen bilateral ties.
Other agreements included a Memorandum of Understanding on Digital Cooperation focusing on cybersecurity, e-governance, and digital connectivity, and a Joint Letter of Intent on the sustainable recruitment of Filipino nurses and healthcare assistants to Denmark.
A notable highlight was a Letter of Intent on a Green Corridor Project, under which the Philippines will collaborate with the U.S. and Denmark on a pre-feasibility study to establish a green shipping corridor. The study, guided by the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, will explore alternative fuels, port infrastructure, and relevant trade regulations to advance sustainable maritime practices.
Minister Rasmussen also visited Manila Central University College to learn about the Philippines’ nurse training programs, reflecting Denmark’s interest in upskilling Filipino healthcare professionals.
The minister’s visit underscored the importance of promoting open and secure seaways for global trade and political stability while fostering closer cooperation between Denmark and the Philippines, which have shared 78 years of diplomatic relations.
This landmark visit also highlighted record-high Danish investments in the Philippines, fueled by the country’s sustained economic growth, signaling an optimistic outlook for future partnerships.
