Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 10906)
The objective is to ensure that all Philippine seafarers are properly certificated, qualified, competent, and medically fit for the proper performance of functions onboard seagoing ships in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
These rules apply to all Philippine seafarers serving onboard seagoing ships who commenced approved seagoing service, education, or training prior to June 1, 1998, except those on warships, naval auxiliaries, fishing vessels, pleasure yachts not engaged in trade, or wooden ships of primitive build.
Existing Seafarers are all Philippine seafarers serving onboard seagoing ships who had commenced approved seagoing service, an approved education and training programme, or an approved training course prior to June 1, 1998.
Endorsement refers to either a document attesting the issuance of a Certificate of Competency by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) or a document attesting the recognition of a certificate issued by other Flag States.
The three levels are: Management Level (serving as master, chief mate, chief engineer or second engineer officer), Operational Level (officer-in-charge of navigational watch, duty engineer for unmanned machinery spaces, or radio operator), and Support Level (performing assigned tasks under direction of operational or management level).
A duly accomplished application form, valid PRC and/or NTC Certificates, photocopy of a current medical certificate, Seafarer's Identification and Record Book (SIRB) photocopies showing sea service, and appropriate training certificates.
The seafarer faces fines starting at P2,000 for the first violation, increasing with subsequent violations. Manning agencies and shipping companies also incur higher fines for allowing uncertified seafarers onboard.
Fines vary by position, ranging from P2,000 to P28,000, with increasing fines for repeated violations. The third and succeeding violations include recommendations for suspension or disqualification from practicing the profession.
Regular processing fees for new issuance or renewal are P500, expedite processing is P700, replacement of lost or damaged certificates costs P600, and authentication of certificates or documents costs P25 per item.