Act No. 73

Legal Principle: Establishes a board responsible for the examination and licensing of maritime positions.
Key Definitions:
- Board: Composed of the Captain of the Port of Manila, the Superintendent of the Nautical School, and two appointed masters of merchant vessels.
Requirements and Procedures:
- The Captain of the Port serves as the board president ex officio.
- A quorum consists of any three members of the board.
- The board conducts inquiries and examinations of applicants for the positions of master, mate, or patron.
Important Details:
- The board certifies applicants to the Captain of the Port for licensing based on their qualifications.

Legal Principle: Outlines the examination process for applicants seeking licensure.
Requirements and Procedures:
- Board meetings occur in the last week of April, August, and December.
- Applicants must submit written applications at least one month prior to the board meeting.
- Physical examination by a qualified physician is mandatory.
- Applicants must provide documented proof of service in relevant maritime positions.
Important Deadlines:
- Applications must be submitted one month in advance of board meetings.
Penalties:
- Applicants not physically sound will not be examined or licensed.

Legal Principle: Specifies qualifications for various levels of maritime positions.
Key Definitions:
- Third Mate: Requires nine months of service as a seaman or eighteen months as a quartermaster.
- Second Mate: Requires a certificate as third mate and additional service time.
- First Mate: Requires two years of service as second mate and three years as third mate.
- Patron: Requires knowledge of navigation and maritime laws.
Important Requirements:
- Age requirements: 21 years for third mate, 23 years for second mate and patron, 28 years for master.
- Specific examination topics for each position focus on seamanship, navigation, and maritime laws.

Legal Principle: Defines standards for examinations and the validity of licenses.
Requirements and Procedures:
- Written examinations cover seamanship, navigation, cargo handling, and related duties.
- A minimum score of 75% is required for passing.
Timeframes:
- Licenses are valid for one year from issuance.
Consequences:
- Licenses can be suspended or revoked for misconduct or incapacity.

Legal Principle: Establishes citizenship requirements for applicants.
Key Definitions:
- Eligible Applicants: Must be citizens of the U.S. or the Philippines; specific provisions for foreign citizens currently serving.
Important Details:
- Foreign applicants must secure a license within two years and comply with all other requirements.

Legal Principle: Clarifies categories of vessels under the act.
Key Definitions:
- Sailing Vessel: Defined as vessels of 150 tons or more.
- Steamer: Defined as vessels of 100 tons or more, propelled by steam.

Legal Principle: Establishes fees associated with the licensing process.
Requirements:
- Licensing fees: $5 for master, $3 for mate or patron, payable to the Captain of the Port.
Consequences:
- Fees collected are deposited into the Insular Treasury.

Legal Principle: Outlines compensation for board members.
Requirements:
- Board members receive $5 per diem during examinations unless in government service.

Legal Principle: States the act's effectivity.
Important Details:
- The act takes effect upon its passage, dated January 16, 1901.

Act No. 73 establishes a structured process for the examination and licensing of maritime professionals in the Philippines.
It defines specific qualifications, age requirements, and examination standards for applicants seeking to become masters, mates, or patrons of sea-going vessels.
The act emphasizes physical fitness, knowledge of maritime operations, and adherence to legal and safety regulations.
Licensing is contingent upon meeting the outlined requirements and passing rigorous examinations, with licenses valid for one year, subject to revocation for misconduct.