A Large Oil Tanker Near Dubai Was Struck by An Iranian Attack

A Large Oil Tanker Near Dubai Was Struck by An Iranian Attack A large oil tanker anchored near Dubai was hit in an alleged Iranian attack, increasing tension in the Middle East. The vessel, reported to be fully loaded with crude oil, caught fire after the impact. Emergency teams quickly responded to contain the fire and secure the area. Initial reports confirmed no injuries among the crew, but authorities are closely monitoring the situation due to the risk of an oil spill. The incident is part of a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Since tensions escalated, several ships have been damaged, causing delays and forcing some vessels to avoid passing through the area.

Marcos Orders Talks with Iran for Safe Passage of PH-Bound Ships

Marcos Orders Talks with Iran for Safe Passage of PH-Bound Ships President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered immediate diplomatic talks with Iran to ensure the safe passage of Philippine-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. According to the Palace, the President directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to engage directly with Iran’s ambassador. The meeting is expected to take place within the week as tensions continue to disrupt global shipping routes. The move comes as Iran continues to restrict vessel movement in the Strait of Hormuz following escalating conflict with the United States and its allies. The waterway is a critical route for global oil shipments, including fuel supplies bound for the Philippines.

Philippines Receives First Russian Oil Shipment in Five Years

Philippines Receives First Russian Oil Shipment in Five Years The Philippines has received its first shipment of Russian crude oil in five years, marking a significant development in the country’s energy sourcing strategy amid global supply uncertainties. Based on shipping data, a tanker carrying around 100,000 metric tonnes (approximately 750,000 barrels) of crude oil from Russia’s Far East is en route to the country, with the cargo expected to be delivered to a refinery in Bataan. This development comes as the government explores alternative fuel suppliers due to ongoing global disruptions, particularly linked to tensions in the Middle East. Energy officials earlier confirmed that the

Confirmed Vessel Attacks as of March 25

Rising Maritime Security Threats: Confirmed Vessel Attacks as of March 25, 2026 The global maritime industry is facing renewed security concerns following confirmed reports of physical attacks on multiple vessels as of March 25, 2025. Data sourced from Kpler Risk and Compliance, alongside records from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), highlight a troubling pattern of incidents affecting various ship types across key international routes. A total of seventeen vessels have been identified as targets of confirmed attacks. These include oil tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, a tug vessel, and even a drilling jack-up unit—indicating that the threat is not limited to a single segment of the maritime industry. The diversity of affected vessels suggests that attackers are opportunistic, exploiting vulnerabilities across multiple operational environments. The rise in these incidents underscores growing risks to global trade, as maritime shipping remains the backbone of international commerce. Disruptions caused by such attacks can lead to delays, increased insurance costs, and heightened operational challenges for shipowners and operators. More importantly, these events pose serious safety concerns for seafarers, who remain on the frontlines of these emerging threats.

Regional forum on the effective implementation of the STCW Convention and Code

<b>Regional forum on the effective implementation of the STCW Convention and Code</b> Manila, Philippines ” The International Maritime Organization (IMO), in partnership with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) of the Republic of the Philippines, successfully convened the Regional Forum on the Effective Implementation of the STCW Convention and Code from 17 to 19 February 2026 at Okada Manila. Held under the theme <b>Navigating Change: Regional Action on STCW Compliance,b> the three-day high-level gathering brought together maritime regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, training institutions, and international experts to address the evolving landscape of global seafarer education and certification. The forum forms part of the IMO ongoing comprehensive review of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended a strategic initiative to ensure that global standards of training, certification, and watchkeeping remain responsive to technological innovation, decarbonization imperatives, and the growing emphasis on the human element of maritime operations.

STCW Regional Forum Held in Manila, Graced by IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez

Paranaque City, Philippines The Regional Forum on the Effective <b>Implementation of the STCW Convention and Code</b> was held in Manila, graced by <b>Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)</b>, bringing together maritime leaders and stakeholders from across the region to advance discussions on the future of global seafarer training standards. During the high-level gathering, the IMO confirmed that <b>Phase 2</b> of the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention will begin in the coming weeks. The next stage of the review will focus on specific amendments to ensure the Convention remains responsive to the accelerating transformation of the maritime sector particularly in areas such as decarbonization, artificial intelligence, automation, and expanded digital systems onboard ships.

Seafarers’ Welfare Center

Good News: Filipino Seafarers’ New Seafarers’ Welfare Center Launch in MOA Area I MARINO PH A major milestone for the Philippine maritime sector was marked with the Grand Launch of the Seafarers’ Welfare Center held on 13 February 2026 at Monarch ParkSuites, Bradco Avenue, Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City (MOA Area).

Harren Group and NSB Group Strengthen Philippine Crewing Operations with Launch of Albireo in Manila

<b> Harren Group and NSB Group Strengthen Philippine Crewing Operations with Launch of Albireo in Manila</b> German ship management and maritime services companies Harren Group and NSB Group have formally joined forces in Manila through the successful launch of a new crewing joint venture, Albireo Maritime People and Performance Incorporated, marking a significant milestone in their long-term engagement with Filipino seafarers and global shipowners.

Pilot Ladder Parts

Pilot Ladder Parts A pilot ladder is composed of rubber steps (usually the bottom four), wooden steps, spreaders (also called preventer steps), step fixing pieces, and ropes.

Understanding Ship Squat in Shallow Waters

Squat Effect The squat effect is a hydrodynamic phenomenon that occurs when a ship moves through shallow or restricted waters, causing the vessel to sink deeper into the water than its normal draft. When a ship is underway, water flows around and beneath the hull. In shallow water, the space between the seabed and the ship’s bottom becomes limited. Because of this restricted space, the water flowing under the hull speeds up. According to fluid principles, when water velocity increases, pressure decreases.

Liquid-Filled vs Dry Pressure Gauges

Difference Between a Liquid-Filled and a Dry Pressure Gauge Pressure gauges are essential instruments used to measure the pressure of gases or liquids in various industrial systems. In sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, and maritime operations, accurate pressure readings are crucial for maintaining safety and operational efficiency. Two of the most commonly used types are liquid-filled pressure gauges and dry pressure gauges, each designed for different operating conditions. Liquid-Filled Pressure Gauges A liquid-filled pressure gauge contains a damping fluid commonly glycerin or silicone oil inside its casing. This liquid helps reduce the effects of vibration, pulsation, and mechanical shock on the gauge mechanism. Because of this internal fluid, the needle movement becomes more stable, allowing for clearer and more accurate readings even in demanding environments. These gauges are particularly useful in high-vibration or harsh conditions, such as heavy machinery, marine engines, hydraulic systems, and industrial processing plants. The liquid also helps protect the internal components from moisture, corrosion, and wear, ultimately extending the lifespan of the instrument. For applications where durability and stability are essential, liquid-filled gauges are often the preferred choice.

Main Engine Interlock System

Main Engine Interlock System in Marine Engines The main engine interlock system is a critical safety feature installed in modern marine propulsion systems. Its primary purpose is to prevent the main engine from starting or operating under unsafe conditions. By integrating several protective mechanisms, the interlock system ensures that the engine starts only when all required parameters and supporting systems are functioning properly. This helps protect both the machinery and the crew while maintaining safe ship operations. One of the key components of the interlock system is the starting air distributor, which controls the timing and sequence of compressed air supplied to the engine cylinders during the starting process. The distributor ensures that starting air is delivered to the correct cylinder at the correct moment, allowing the engine to rotate safely and begin the combustion cycle. Without proper synchronization, the engine may fail to start or suffer mechanical damage. Another important feature is the air spring pressure interlock. This mechanism ensures that sufficient air pressure is available in the starting air system before the engine can be started. If the air pressure drops below the required level, the interlock prevents engine start-up. This protects the engine from incomplete or failed starting attempts that could cause excessive wear on components. The engine pressure interlock also plays a crucial role in maintaining engine safety. It monitors internal engine parameters such as lubricating oil pressure. If the oil pressure is insufficient, the interlock system prevents the engine from running to avoid severe damage to moving parts such as bearings, crankshafts, and pistons. Maintaining proper lubrication is essential for the longevity and reliability of the engine.