Question & AnswerQ&A (PRC BOARD OF MARINE ENGINEER OFFICERS Resolution NO. 14, S. 1999)
The applicant must at least be a second year high school graduate recognized by the government and have served at least five years as apprentice engineer, oiler, or machinist on vessels propelled by motor or steam engines of not less than 250 BHP.
After five years from the approval of P.D. No. 97 (approved January 13, 1973), examinees for the Fourth Marine Engineer Officers must be graduates of a Marine Engineering School or its equivalent degree.
P.D. No. 97 was repealed by R.A. No. 8544, the Philippine Merchant Marine Officers Act of 1998, which was approved on February 25, 1998.
Until February 1, 2002, parties may continue to issue, recognize, and endorse certificates under the provisions before February 1, 1997, for seafarers who started approved seagoing service or training courses before August 1, 1998, and may continue to renew and revalidate certificates accordingly.
They must be graduates of a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering degree from a school recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
Maritime schools will continue to graduate students under the old BSMarE curriculum until the school year 2000-2001.
It is structured in compliance with Regulation III/1 of the STCW Code, requiring completion of at least six months of seagoing service in the engine department.
Duties/functions of a Wiper, Greaser, Fitter, Engine Cadet, Machinist, or Oiler.
The Fourth Engineer Officer must be qualified for ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 KW or more.
The resolution was adopted on May 7, 1999.