Question & AnswerQ&A (POEA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 09, S. OF 2008)
The primary purpose is to provide guidelines on the documentation, registration, and deployment of direct hire Filipino seafarers to ensure better protection for them.
The guidelines cover (1) direct hire seafarers who secure sea-based employment without manning agency assistance, (2) re-engaged direct hire seafarers working with the same employer under a new contract, and (3) direct hire seafarers on emergency leave returning to the same employer to serve the unexpired contract portion.
They should be referred to the accredited manning agency for employment contract processing, as employers accredited with manning agencies are banned from directly hiring seafarers.
Requirements include Standard Employment Contract verified by POLO or authenticated by Philippine Embassy, valid SIRB, Seafarers Registration Certificate (SRC), OFW Information Sheet, Medical Fitness Certificate, valid passport, guarantee letter on visa issuance, plane ticket or booking certificate, PDOS certificate, and relevant certificates of competency or proficiency.
Re-engaged seafarers need fewer documents: they require a verified Standard Employment Contract, SIRB, SRC, OFW Information Sheet, valid passport, plane ticket or booking certificate, and guarantee letter on visa issuance but do not need medical fitness certificates or proficiency certificates anew.
All direct hire seafarers must undergo pre-employment medical examination (PEME) at DOH-accredited clinics or designated embassies/consulates, with medical certificates issued within three months prior to POEA contract processing submission.
They must attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) conducted by the POEA Workers Education Division.
They must pay a POEA processing fee of P200.00 and an OWWA contribution of US$25 or its peso equivalent.
No, returning seafarers pay a reduced POEA processing fee of P100.00 only.
Such direct hires shall still be processed by POEA provided they comply with documentary requirements and get clearance from the Administrator.
They can be processed at any POEA Regional Centers or Regional Extension Units in the provinces according to these guidelines.
It became effective 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation following its adoption on December 23, 2008.