The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) held its first working session with Maritime Training Centers (CFM) to advance the automation process of the Maritime Training Department (DEFMA) under the General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM).
During this session, a workshop was presented and conducted on the Daily Certificate Registration (RDC) module, a key component in DEFMA’s automation efforts. Attendees were guided through a test platform demonstrating the steps CFMs must follow to upload, in real-time, the certificates issued for PMA-approved courses.
This tool enhances DEFMA’s oversight, enabling both the department and the Regional Documentation Offices and Consulates to instantly verify submitted applications. This streamlines the review process, ensuring greater efficiency and transparency in document management.
For PMA Deputy Administrator Alexander De Gracia, the launch of this new digital platform is a milestone in modernizing DGGM’s document management, replacing the outdated manual system. He emphasized that the initiative not only strengthens efficiency, transparency, and security across all processes but also underscores the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement by integrating significant advancements into its services.
DGGM Director Maryluz Castillo expressed gratitude for the participation and added, “We recognize that every change requires adaptation, but it also brings great opportunities. Through this transformation, we reaffirm our mission to provide a fast, reliable service that meets the evolving demands of the global maritime sector.”
All seafarer training courses or programs must be officially recognized by the PMA. To achieve this, CFMs—including their branches and subsidiaries—must comply with the requirements outlined in current regulations. Upon completion of the training process, centers are responsible for maintaining documented records that verify the necessary evidence.
DEFMA is responsible for supervising the operations and performance of PMA-authorized CFMs, ensuring that seafarer training aligns with international standards. Its oversight promotes safety at sea, maritime security, navigation efficiency, and marine environment conservation. Additionally, it ensures that seafarers develop the competencies and skills required under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 1978, as amended).
To date, PMA has authorized 31 national and 32 international CFMs across Central America and the Caribbean, North America, South America, Europe, and Asia to provide maritime training for seafarers working aboard Panama-flagged vessels. Among the courses offered by these authorized centers are Personal Survival Techniques, Basic First Aid, Fire Prevention and Firefighting, Lifeboat Handling, and Basic Training for Oil Tanker Cargo Operations, among others.
The working session was led by PMA Deputy Administrator Alexander De Gracia, DGGM Director Maryluz Castillo, and Deputy Director Felipe Arias, alongside DEFMA Chief Rubén García and IT Chief Francisco Trujillo.
