International Journal of Research Studies in Management
CollabWritive Special Issue
2026 Volume 14 Issue 5
Available Online: 2 October 2026
Author/s:
Umali, John Edward L.
Graduate School, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Philippines
Abstract:
This study assessed the digital competence, artificial intelligence utilization, and innovation capability of Filipino seafarers and proposed a Maritime Technology Adoption Framework. The study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, and 384 Filipino seafarers were selected using purposive sampling. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire adapted from the DigComp Framework, contemporary maritime artificial intelligence utilization models, and innovation capability frameworks. The results revealed that Filipino seafarers demonstrated a high level of digital competence (CM = 3.55), with Information Literacy obtaining the highest assessment. Likewise, respondents exhibited a high extent of artificial intelligence utilization (CM = 3.79), with the Human Element dimension receiving the highest rating, highlighting the continued importance of human judgment in AI-assisted operations. Furthermore, Filipino seafarers showed a high level of innovation capability (CM = 3.68), with Performance emerging as the highest-rated dimension. Correlation analysis indicated significant relationships between selected dimensions of digital competence and artificial intelligence utilization, as well as between selected dimensions of artificial intelligence utilization and innovation capability. However, no significant relationship was found between digital competence and innovation capability. A framework for Maritime Technology Adoption for Filipino Seafarers was developed based on the findings of the study. The framework identifies Digital Competence as the foundation, Artificial Intelligence Utilization as the enabling mechanism, and Innovation Capability as the outcome, highlighting both the direct and indirect pathways through which digital competence strengthens innovation capability. The framework provides a structured guide for workforce readiness and maritime digital transformation.
Keywords: digital competence, artificial intelligence utilization, innovation capability, maritime technology adoption, Filipino seafarers, maritime digital transformation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26127
Cite this article:
Umali, J. E. L. (2026). Digital competence, artificial intelligence utilization, and innovation capability: Basis for a maritime technology adoption framework for Filipino seafarers. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 14(5), 317-332. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26127