Question & AnswerQ&A (MIA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 148)
The primary objective is to ensure that all Philippine-registered ships are properly manned by qualified and licensed officers and crew who can safely operate the ships at all times, in accordance with the provisions of the Circular.
The Circular applies to all Philippine-registered ships engaged in the domestic trade and fishing vessels for international voyage.
Safe Manning means the number of qualified, competent, and certificated officers and ratings on board a ship who can safely operate the ship at all times.
The Administration refers to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
Yes, Philippine-registered ships shall be completely manned by Filipino officers and ratings, except as authorized by the Administration.
They must be duly qualified, competent, certificated, and medically fit in accordance with the Rules and Regulations prescribed in the Circular.
They must hold a Ship Radio Mobile Operators Certificate issued by the National Telecommunications Commission.
Ships must have medical personnel based on passenger number and voyage duration, e.g., for 500-2000 passengers and voyage over 12 hours, one medical practitioner and one paramedic are required.
The Dispensation Permit may be granted only during emergencies as determined by MARINA and shall not exceed three (3) months.
Principles include maintaining a safe bridge watch, effective mooring and unmooring, operating watertight closing arrangements, managing safety functions, maintaining engineering watches, and capability to operate machinery and safety appliances effectively.
Yes, a ship may be allowed to reduce its manning complement subject to compliance with the minimum safe manning provision and approval by the Administration.
They must meet the certification requirements of the STCW 1978 Convention as amended, while those not performing watchkeeping duties must undergo basic safety training.
It means the operation of a vessel within six (6) Nautical Miles from any point of land through permitted routes indicated in the vessel's Certificate of Inspection.
Engine Output Rating is measured in kilowatts (KW) instead of brake horsepower (BHP), with the conversion 1KW = 1.341 HP.
The Circular provides detailed tables specifying the minimum number of officers and ratings based on the ship's tonnage and engine power for various ship classes (passenger, cargo, tankers, dredgers, fishing vessels, etc.).
The Circular requires enforcement of rest periods, organization of watches to prevent fatigue, and that officers and engineering personnel maintain safe and effective watch or watches at all times according to the STCW Code.
Shipowners are encouraged to accommodate maritime graduates for apprenticeship provided safety and billeting conditions are met, and apprentices carry an approved Seafarer's Training Record Book.
Their duties at management and operational levels follow the STCW Code and are complemented by applicable duties in the Philippine Code of Commerce and the International Safety Management Code.
It takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.