MANILA — Carnival Cruise Line, a leading international cruise operator, announced on Wednesday that it has simplified the application process for aspiring Filipino crew members, aiming for a more seamless and efficient employment experience. This initiative is part of their strategy to attract more Filipino crew members.
Streamlined Online Application
Richard Brearley, Vice President for Cruise Operations, highlighted that most of the application process for the Carnival Cruise Filipino crew can now be completed online. Historically, applicants had to wait in long lines at manning agencies for opportunities on cruise, cargo, or merchant vessels.
Brearley explained, “In the traditional model, I’d go to an address and apply on paper. Now, everything is online. Someone living in Davao can start the application process from home using a smartphone or computer.”
The transition to an online system was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the overall experience for applicants. “Technology is not only improving the experience but also providing a seamless process for our crew members. They no longer need to travel and invest heavily to apply; they can do it from their homes,” added Bettina Deynes, Global Chief Human Resources Officer at Carnival Corporation.
Hands-On Requirements and Government Collaboration
While most positions can be applied for online, certain roles, particularly in culinary, may still require in-person skill tests. Carnival is hopeful that other companies will follow suit in digitalizing their application processes, with support from the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Department of Migrant Workers.
Growing Opportunities in Cruise Tourism
Carnival Cruise Line is looking to fill tens of thousands of positions as cruise tourism experiences a significant rebound. “We’re planning 20,000 promotions, providing growth opportunities for current employees. We aim to show Filipinos that they can build a career and excel in the maritime space,” Deynes stated.
To better equip aspiring Filipino cruise seafarers, Carnival has expanded partnerships with STI College and the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), offering 20 scholarships for each institution. STI College is known for its culinary and hospitality courses, while PMMA specializes in maritime education.
Carnival’s Commitment to Filipino Talent
Carnival Cruise Line currently employs 12,000 Filipino crew members, with around 50,000 Filipino crew members across its partner brands under Carnival Corporation. Among these, 1,000 Filipino crew members work in deck and engine operations.
The company is committed to encouraging more Filipinos to take on leadership roles, potentially seeing the first Filipino captain and engineer on its cruise ships. “Many Filipino graduates are interested in naval careers, the coast guard, or cargo. We want to make them aware of the career opportunities in the cruise industry,” Deynes said.
Future Prospects
Carnival sees increased opportunities for cruise calls in the Philippines, especially after the country was named Asia’s Best Cruise Destination for 2023. The company is optimistic about attracting more aspiring Filipino seafarers to the cruise industry.
