Question & AnswerQ&A (PRC BOARD OF MARINE DECK OFFICERS BOARD Resolution NO. 21, S. 1999)
The rules and regulations shall be known and cited as the "Rules and Regulations Implementing the Philippine Merchant Marine Officers Act of 1998."
The purpose is to prescribe the standards and procedures for examination, assessment, registration, issuance and revalidation of certificates, and supervision, control, and regulation of the practice of the Merchant Marine Deck profession in the Philippines, ensuring compliance with the STCW 78 Convention, as amended.
A Merchant Marine Deck Officer is a duly registered, certificated and licensed master mariner, chief mate, officer-in-charge of navigational watch classified as Second Mate or Third Mate, and Major or Minor Patron.
The Board is composed of a Chairman and four members appointed by the President from a list of three recommendees for each position recommended by the Commission based on nominees from the integrated and accredited association of Marine Deck Officers.
It includes application of navigation, seamanship, engineering principles for onboard management, operation, and maintenance of vessels; handling and stowage of cargo; safe watchkeeping; maritime education and training; employment in government requiring expertise; and private sector jobs such as port captains and marine superintendents.
Must hold a Certificate of Registration as Chief Mate on a 500 GT or more ship, have at least 24 months of seagoing service as Chief Mate on such a vessel, completed approved education and training, and meet applicable radio duties requirements.
Applicants must obtain a weighted general average rating of at least 70% with no grade lower than 60% in any subject; once practical/oral exams are implemented, the average is computed as 70% written exam and 30% practical/oral.
Grounds include fraud or deceit in obtaining certificates, incompetence, negligence, illegal practice, fraudulent applications, violations of RA No. 8544, the Board's rules, policies, or Code of Ethics, and violations of the STCW Convention provisions.
The Board and Commission may issue Endorsement Certificates recognizing foreign Marine Deck Officers holding valid Certificates of Competency under the STCW Convention, ensuring compliance with standards, and maintaining records of such foreign officers issued special dispensation.