Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 8021)
The objective is to prescribe standards and procedures in full compliance with STCW Chapter II/3 for mandatory minimum requirements for examination, assessment, and certification of Master on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage not engaged on near-coastal voyages, and to streamline the licensing and certification process.
It applies to all candidates for certification as Master on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage not engaged on near-coastal voyages.
A Master (MM) means the person having command of a ship.
Category-A: Candidates with approved education and training from April 1, 2014 onward; Category-B: Candidates with approved education and training prior to April 1, 2014; Category-C: Candidates without approved education and training for Management Level - Deck Officer.
Candidates must pass the theoretical examination, practical assessment, GOC examination, and assessment in ancillary proficiencies. They must also submit proof of approved ECDIS simulator training, MLCD completion, approved seagoing service, and other supporting documents.
At least 36 months as Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch (OIC-NW) on ships of 500 GT or more, or at least 24 months combined as OIC-NW and Chief Mate (CM) with not less than 12 months as CM on ships of 500 GT or more.
The '3-1 Rule' prohibits a candidate who fails in 3 or more competences in one sitting from applying for re-sit within 1 month. The '3-3 Rule' disallows re-sit in a competence after 3 failures unless the candidate completes 3 months approved seagoing service with related certification or completes an approved training/refresher course.
The MARINA License is valid for 5 years from issuance. The COC is valid for 5 years or until the expiration of the shortest validity Certificate of Proficiency (COP), but not later than the MARINA License validity.
Revalidation may be done every 5 years by proving continued competence through approved seagoing service, equivalent service ashore, passing approved exams, completing approved training, or performing functions equivalent to those required.
Ancillary Proficiencies include Basic Training; Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats; Advanced Fire Fighting; Medical First Aid; and Medical Care as required under STCW Code Sections.
Any 'PASSED' marks exceeding 2 years will expire, and the candidate must be re-examined or re-assessed accordingly.
Yes, candidates can present partial completion of education/training (e.g., Transcript of Records under approved programs) as evidence, subject to approval by the Administration.
Yes, candidates may complete the General Operator's Certificate requirements prior to completing theoretical, practical, or ancillary proficiencies assessments.
The Circular took effect immediately on the day of its publication, February 13, 2015.