An Assessment of the Qualification and Competency of Maritime Casualty Investigators of the Maritime Safety Services Command: Inputs for Enhancement

This paper presents an assessment of the qualification and competency of maritime casualty investigators within the Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The objective of this assessment is to identify areas for improvement and provide inputs to enhance the capabilities of the maritime casualty investigators. Respondents of the study were 57 maritime casualty investigators who have undergone a 10-day training on maritime casualty investigation. They were assigned to different Maritime Safety Services Units and Coast Guard Districts all over the Philippines. The study evaluated the educational background, training programs, and practical experience of the investigators, along with their knowledge of relevant maritime laws and regulations. Findings highlighted potential gaps in qualifications and competencies, such as the need for specialized training in accident reconstruction. This is a field that demands deep understanding of various factors influencing maritime accidents. Additionally, the assessment considers the use of advanced technologies and methodologies in maritime casualty investigations. These results suggest that the level of education alone may not be a reliable predictor of proficiency in the assessed competencies, warranting further exploration of additional factors that may contribute to the development of maritime investigative skills.