ATPI Philippines expects single-digit short-term growth as shifting maritime travel and global crew deployment trends drive stronger demand for tech-enabled, agile, and welfare-focused solutions.

In a statement over the weekend, the corporate travel management firm said tighter crew rotations, rising group movements, and more coordinated changes through key hubs are reshaping international seafarer mobility. 

It added that safe and timely crew rotations, cost optimisation, risk mitigation for group movements, and the digitisation of travel processes are gaining greater emphasis as global fleet expansion and the recovery of cruise and offshore sectors lift overall activity.

“Demand for Filipino seafarers has grown steadily over the past year, particularly in offshore energy, short-sea container trades and passenger vessels,” ATPI Philippines managing director Yvette Araullo said.

“We expect 5 to 7 percent annual growth through emerging hubs over the next 12 to 18 months, and ATPI continues to invest in technology, airline partnerships, and local infrastructure to support rising needs,” she added.

Citing the International Chamber of Shipping Seafarer Workforce Report 2024, ATPI said the number of seafarers serving on merchant ships trading internationally was estimated at 1.89 million, including 857,540 officers and 1,035,180 ratings.

“These trends and figures are reshaping the way Filipino seafarers are deployed worldwide and underscore the need for enhanced digitalisation and operational agility,” Araullo noted.

“The Philippines, meanwhile, continues to be among the most important crew source markets for ATPI’s international maritime operations, given its deep pool of highly skilled, English-proficient seafarers.”

To support industry growth, ATPI said it continued to invest in improved data visibility, flexible travel solutions, and stronger partnerships with airlines and marine agencies. The company expanded its marine infrastructure across major transit hubs and secured additional airline capacity for time-sensitive crew changes.

It also prioritised faster adaptation, real-time data, and tech-driven solutions aligned with rising hubs such as Singapore, Dubai, and Doha, which required more flexible planning and integrated communication among agencies, shipowners, and travel partners.

ATPI’s platforms, including CrewHub, CrewLink, and its Travel Tracking System, supported end-to-end crew travel, from booking and tracking to live location monitoring, risk alerts, and instant communication.

The company also opened its World Support Center in Manila to provide 24/7 travel management services, a move it said reinforced its commitment to the Philippines through expanded offerings, stronger partnerships, and sustainability initiatives.