Medical Certificate Requirements
- A valid medical certificate must be submitted with all COP applications.
- The medical certificate must be obtained from a Department of Health (DOH)-accredited medical clinic.
- The certificate's validity period must be at least one (1) year from the date of issue.
Photo Submission Requirements
- Applications for issuance or revalidation of COP must be accompanied by two (2) passport-sized photos.
- Photos must depict the seafarer wearing the appropriate uniform corresponding to their rank.
- For seafarers who are not part of the Deck or Engine departments aboard passenger ships:
- Photos must show them wearing a white polo shirt with collar or a white blouse with collar.
- Background must be white.
Requirements for Bulk Submissions by MTIs or Entities
- When submitting requests in bulk for COP and other STCW-related certificates, MTIs or entities must provide scanned copies of the required photos.
- These photos must be submitted in a compact or flash disk.
- This ensures ease and efficiency in photo editing during processing.
Legal Basis and Implementation
- The requirements are pursuant to Regulation 1/9 paragraph 3 and Sections A-1/9 and A-1/2 of the International Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), as amended.
- The advisory took effect immediately upon its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
Authority and Issuance
- Issued by Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., PhD, Administrator of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
- Establishes clear procedural guidelines to streamline the acceptance and processing of COP applications.
Summary of Key Points
- Medical certificates must be valid and DOH-accredited with at least 1-year validity.
- Passport-sized photos are mandatory, with uniform standards based on rank and department.
- Bulk applications require photo submissions on digital media for processing efficiency.
- Compliance with international maritime standards (STCW) is emphasized.
- Instant effectuation ensures immediate adherence to new requirements.