Mandate RA 10635

Sixteenth Congress
First Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-second day of July, two thousand
thirteen.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10635

AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE MARITIME INDUSTRY AUTHORITY (MARINA) AS THE

SINGLE MARITIME ADMINISTRATION RESPONSIBLE FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION AND
ENFORCEMENT OF THE 1978 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF
TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, AS AMENDED, AND
INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS OR COVENANTS RELATED THERETO

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress

assembled:

Section 1. Declaration of Policy.—The following are hereby declared to be the policies of the
State:

(a) The State shall ensure compliance with the 1978 International Convention on Standards of
Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention), as amended; all
international agreements implementing or applying the STCW Convention; and other
international maritime safety conventions or agreements that the STCW Convention seeks to
promote compliance with;

(b) The State recognizes the vital contribution of the seafarers to the national economy. Toward
this end, the State shall establish systems and mechanisms for the promotion and protection of
the well-being of the seafarers to ensure their professionalism and competitiveness, both in
local and international trade, consistent with existing local labor laws and applicable
international laws;

(c) The State shall create a single maritime administrative system and structure that shall
provide an enabling environment for the business of Philippine seafaring; establish appropriate
institutional arrangements with other agencies of government; and create an effective regulatory
framework conducive to the efficiency, transparency and competitiveness of the Philippine
seafaring industry consistent with the STCW Convention; and

(d) The State shall harmonize all legal and administrative measures which are taken and
provided for by government regulatory agencies and ensure that such measures are appropriate
and consistent with the STCW Convention.
Section 2. Definition of Terms.—As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:

(a) Certificate of competency—a certificate issued to masters, officers and Global Maritime
Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) radio operators in accordance with the provisions of
Chapters II, III, IV or VII of the Annex to the STCW Convention entitling the lawful holder to
serve and perform the functions involved at the level of responsibility specified therein.

(b) Certificate of endorsement—an attestation of the maritime administration as to the

authenticity and validity of the certificates, incorporated in the format of the certificates issued to
masters and officers, stating that the issuance of the relevant certificate is in compliance with
the requirements of the STCW Convention.

(c) Certificate of proficiency—a certificate other than a certificate of competency issued to a

seafarer, stating that the relevant requirements of training competencies or seagoing service
under the STCW Convention have been met.

(d) Documentary evidence—all the documentation, other than a certificate of competency or

certificate of proficiency, used to establish that the relevant requirements of the STCW
Convention have been met.

(e) Maritime administration or single maritime administration—the Maritime Industry Authority

(MARINA), as the single government agency mandated to ensure complete and effective
implementation of the STCW Convention.

(f) Seafarer—any person who is employed, engaged or works onboard seagoing ships, whether
or not such ships are engaged in the domestic or overseas trade, and to whom the STCW
Convention applies.

(g) STCW Convention—the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training,

Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, and its subsequent amendments.

Section 3. MARINA as the Single Maritime Administration.—The MARINA, created under

Presidential Decree. No. 474, as amended, shall be the single maritime administration
mandated to implement and enforce the 1978 International Convention on Standards of
Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. It shall carry out an effective regulatory
framework conducive to the efficiency, transparency and competitiveness of the Philippine
seafaring industry.

Section 4. Powers and Functions of the MARINA.—In addition to the mandate of the MARINA
under Presidential Decree No. 474, as amended, and in order to carry out the provisions of this
Act, the MARINA shall exercise the following powers and functions:
(a) Act as the single and central maritime administration for all purposes relating to compliance
with the STCW Convention.

(b) Administer and ensure the effective implementation of the STCW Convention; including all
international conventions or agreements implementing or applying the same, as well as
international maritime safety conventions or agreements that it seeks to promote compliance
with.

(c) Assume all powers and functions of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the
Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority (TESDA), the Department of Health (DOH) and the National Telecommunications
Commission (NTC) relative to the issuance, validation, verification, correction, revocation or
cancellation of certificates of competency, endorsement, proficiency and documentary evidence
required of all seafarers and all such other matters pertaining to the implementation of the
STCW Convention, subject to the following:

(1) The MARINA shall ensure that the examination, licensing and certification system for marine
deck and engine officers are in accordance with the requirements prescribed under the STCW
Convention. All powers, duties and functions of the PRC on examination, licensing and
certification system for marine deck and engine officers as provided in Republic Act No. 8544,
otherwise known as "The Philippine Merchant Marine Officers Act of 1998", shall henceforth be
exercised by the MARINA. The compensation and allowances of the Board of Marine Deck
Officers and Marine Engine Officers under Article TV, Section 8 of Republic Act No. 8544 shall,
however, be comparable to the compensation and allowances being received by the
chairpersons and members of other existing regulatory boards under the PRC and as provided
in the General Appropriations Act.

(2) The MARINA shall adopt rules and regulations, in accordance with the STCW Convention,
governing able-bodied deck and engine ratings including:

(i) Monitoring and verification of compliance with the standards of ratings;

(ii) Harmonization of the procedures for periodic evaluation, assessment and monitoring
activities undertaken by accredited institutions with registered programs for ratings; and

(iii) Issuance of certificates of proficiency to ratings.

(3) The MARINA shall ensure that all legal and administrative measures relative to the issuance
of certificates of competency of GMDSS radio operators are in accordance with the STCW
Convention. For this purpose, the MARINA shall assess, revalidate and issue GMDSS radio
operator’s certificate in accordance with the provisions under the STCW Convention.

(4) The MARINA shall ensure that all maritime education, including the curricula and training
programs, are structured and delivered in accordance with the written programs, methods and
media of delivery, procedures, and course materials compliant with international standards as
prescribed under the STCW Convention. For this purpose, the MARINA shall:

(i) Chair the Technical Panel on Maritime Education (TPME) of the CHED; the TPME shall
among others, formulate, review and recommend to the CHED en banc all policies, standards,
and guidelines for maritime education, including curricula, facilities and guidelines;

(ii) Monitor and verify, in coordination with the CHED, compliance with the policies, standards,
and guidelines of maritime education in the conduct of maritime education and training
programs;-

(iii) Review and harmonize the procedures for periodic evaluation, assessment and monitoring
of all maritime education and training institutions in accordance with the standards of the CHED
and other recognized international organizations;

(iv) Develop, formulate and recommend for implementation, strict quality assurance
mechanisms and relevant typology for maritime education programs and institutions;

(v) Recommend to the CHED en banc the closure/phase-out of substandard maritime education
institutions, in accordance with the rules and regulations, as well as recommend alternative
schemes or options for the affected maritime educational institution;

(vi) Maintain an updated list of compliant and phased-out maritime education and training
programs, publish such lists in appropriate media, and provide the public with a clear
understanding of the consequences of enrolling in a phased-out program;

(5) The MARINA shall coordinate with the DOH to ensure that the medical standards
established to ascertain the medical fitness of seafarers are in accordance with the international
conventions/treaties and existing laws. For this purpose, the MARINA shall:

(i) Ensure that the medical examinations and issuance of medical certificates by the DOH
accredited hospitals, medical clinics, and laboratories, including medical practitioners are in
accordance with the standards prescribed by the STCW Convention; and

(ii) Ensure that medical certificates are issued by a duly-qualified medical practitioner
recognized by and accredited with the DOH, and for this purpose, a register of recognized
medical practitioners shall be maintained and made available to seafarers, shipping companies
and State parties to the STCW Convention,

Section 5. Composition of the Maritime Industry Board.—To ensure the proper implementation
and enforcement of the STCW Convention in relation to international maritime safety and
environmental agreements, the Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in lieu of the
Secretary of National Defense, shall be included as member of the Maritime Industry Board
established pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 474 creating the MARINA. The Maritime
Industry Board may create an advisory council that will assist the MARINA in ensuring
compliance with the STCW Convention, as it may deem proper. The number and members of
this council shall be identified and determined by the Maritime Industry Board.

Section 6. Appropriations.—The Secretary of Transportation and Communications, through, the

MARINA, shall immediately include in its programs the operationalization requirement of the
STCW Services, the initial funding of which shall be charged against the savings or current
year’s appropriations of the MARINA. Thereafter, such sums as may be necessary for the
continued implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Section 7. Implementing Rules and Regulations.—The MARINA shall issue the required
implementing rules and regulations in accordance with the provisions of this Act within six (6)
months from the effectivity hereof. In the formulation of such rules and regulations, the MARINA
shall ensure that the processes and procedures for issuance, validation, verification, correction,
revocation, or cancellation of certificates of competency, endorsement, proficiency arid
documentary evidence required of seafarers under the STCW Convention shall be the most
efficient and convenient way for the seafarers including, but not limited to, the establishment of
one-stop shop arrangements, computerization and automation, and elimination of redundant
fees and charges.

Section 8. Transitory Provisions.—All certificates of competency, endorsement, proficiency and

documentary evidence issued prior to the effectivity of this Act shall be deemed valid without
necessity of revalidation or reissuance until the date of expiration as stated in such certificates
or other documents. Thereafter, new certificates or other documents shall be revalidated or
reissued only in accordance with the implementing rules and regulations issued pursuant to this
Act, in conformity with the STCW requirements.

Section 9. Separability Clause.—If for any reason any section or provision of this Act is declared
unconstitutional or invalid, the other sections, or provisions hereof not affected by such
declaration shall remain in force and in effect.

Section 10. Repealing Clause.—The provisions of Presidential Decree No. 474 on the
composition of the Maritime Industry Board and all the provisions under Republic Act No. 8544
relating to the examination, licensing and certification system for marine deck and engine
officers are hereby amended. All existing laws, orders, decrees, rules and regulations or parts
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 11. Effectivity Clause.—This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from its publication in
the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,

(Sgd.) FRANKLIN M. DRILON

President of the Senate (Sgd.) FELICIANO BELMONTE JR.

Speaker of the House of Representatives

This Act which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 2043 and House Bill No. 3766 was finally
passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on February 10, 2014 and February
17, 2014, respectively.

(Sgd.) OSCAR G. YABES

Secretary of the Senate (Sgd.) MARILYN B. BARUA-YAP
Secretary General
House of Representatives
Approved: MAR 13 2014

(Sgd.) BENIGNO S. AQUINO III

President of the Philippines
_________________________________________

Inquiry into complaints on MARINA Circulars by Filipino seafarers sought

Writer: Dionisio P. Tubianosa, Media Affairs and Public Relations Service
18 November 2015 06:49:02 AM

An in-depth congressional inquiry into the circulars and advisories issued by the Maritime
Industry Authority (MARINA) is needed to ensure these policies are beneficial to Filipino
seafarers' welfare and development, a lawmaker insists.

Hon. Jesulito A. ManaloANGKLA party-list Rep. Jesulito A. Manalo said the inquiry, in
aid of legislation, is meant to ensure that MARINA's mandate to fully enforce the International
Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) are followed
without prejudice to the welfare Filipino seafarers.

Manalo filed HR 2457 which calls for an inquiry by the Committee on Transportation on the
propriety of the issuance and enforcement of circulars and advisories by the MARINA in relation
to its implementation of the STCW.

"It is necessary to re-asses the propriety, necessity, and efficiency of the subject circulars and
advisory in order to rectify whatever prejudice they may be causing Filipino seafarers," the
author said.

He recalled that R.A. 10635, signed into law in March 2014, declared MARINA as the single
maritime administration empowered to enforce the STCW for all Filipino seafarers.
Under R.A. 10635, MARINA is authorized to issue, and in fact issued, circulars and advisories
which it deemed necessary to ensure the full and appropriate implementation of the STCW,
Manalo pointed out.

He said among the circulars that the agency issued is MARINA Circular No. 2014-01, which
enumerated requirements for seafarers who wish to secure certification for a higher rank or
position.

"Part of Provision VI of the Circular mandates an Officer In Charge (OIC) to first take an
updating training for his rank before they can qualify to take a management level course for the
next rank," Manalo said.

However, he revealed that some OIC seafarers who sought clarification on Circular 2014-01
were likewise advised that they are required to first take the theoretical examination in order to
obtain their certification, which further caused confusion since the said requirement is not found
in the Circular itself.

"Concerned seafarers object to the requirement of duplicitous training and level courses, as well
as the alleged taking of theoretical examination as the layered processes of certification
exhausts their time, effort, and money," Manalo revealed, echoing seafarers' sentiments.

Again, the agency issued STCW Circular 2014-02 which requires cadets to make a Daily
Journal (DJ) for Watchkeeping, which is an activity too taxing for a cadet to comply with, as
compared to the Deck or Engine Training Record Book previously required and accepted, the
author pointed out.

"The imposed maintenance of a DJ caused numerous cadets to complain about the time and
effort that it would require of them to accomplish daily," he added.

There is also the MARINA issued STCW Circular 2014-08, which automatically allows the
revalidation of certifications of seafarers with functions of Office In Charge Navigational Watch
(OIC-NW) with proof of approved seagoing service for a period of 12 months in total during the
preceding 5 years, or 3 months in total during the preceding 6 months immediately prior to
revalidation.

Manalo added that in the absence of such seagoing service, the Circular under Section 12,
paragraph 12.1 (3), requires among others, the taking and passing of the theoretical
examination as a precondition for the revalidation of a seafarer's certificate of competency for
OIC-NW.

"Affected Filipino seafarers seeking revalidation of their certificates for OIC-NW raised
complaints against such pre-condition mentioned in Circular 2014-08, claiming that the re-taking
of the examination is too onerous for seafarers who have already passed the said examination
before and thus, were previously issued the essential certificates of competency," the author
explained.

There is also the STCW Advisory No. 2014-023, which mandates that effective November 15
2015, all seafarers who are applying for their certificates of competency, endorsement, and
proficiency shall only be issued the applied certificates if they have proof they have already
complied with or undergone the essential updating/refresher trainings, which trainings are
required to be undertaken every five years under the 2010 STCW Manila Amendments.

"Seafarers strongly object, saying it runs counter to the Transitory Provision of the 2010 STCW
Manila amendments, which still allows revalidation of certificates, even without the mandated
updating/refresher trainings, until January 1, 2017," Manalo explained.

While the author acknowledges MARINA's earnest efforts to comply with the minimum
requirements under the STCW Convention, he stressed that MARINA should also ensure an
effective information and consultation drive whereby they can directly heed the suggestions,
concerns, and questions raised by seafarers relative to these circulars and advisories.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Approval MARINA Circular No. 2013-01

Republic of the Philippines

Department of Transportation and Communications
MARITIME INDUSTRY AUTHORITY

MARINA CIRCULAR NO. 2013-01

Series of 2012

TO : ALL MARITIME TRAINING INSTITUTIONS, MARITIME INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS

AND OTHER ENTITIES CONCERNED

SUBJECT : RULES ON THE INSPECTION AND ACCREDITATION OF

MARITIME TRAINING COURSES

Pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 474, Executive Order No. 125/ 125-A, Executive Order No.
75 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) and the 1978 International Convention on
Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), as amended, the following rules
shall be adopted:

I. OBJECTIVES:
1. To prescribe policies, procedures and minimum requirements in the inspection and
accreditation of training courses offered by the maritime training institutions (MTIs);
2. To adopt the provisions of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, with regard to
training and assessment of seafarers;
3. To ensure the delivery of a quality maritime programs/ courses; and,
4. To fully comply with the 1978 International Convention on STCW, as amended.

II. COVERAGE:

This Circular shall apply to the inspection and accreditation of training courses offered by
Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs), both government and private, as required under the
following Chapters of the STCW Convention:

a. Chapters II and III - Relevant regulations covering the approved education and training;
b. Chapter IV – GOC for GMDSS;
c. Chapter V – Special training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships; and
d. Chapter VI – Emergency occupational safety, security, medical care, and survival
functions.

III. DEFINITION OF TERMS:

For the purpose of this Circular, the following terms shall be defined as follows:

1. Administration or STCW Administration – shall refer to the Department of Transportation

and Communications (DOTC), through the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), as the single
government agency mandated to implement and enforce the 1978 STCW Convention, as
amended.

2. Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) – shall refer to the duly established institutions,
public or private, duly authorized by the Administration to offer maritime training courses in
accordance with the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended and the applicable laws, rules and
regulations.

3. Certificate of Course Accreditation – shall refer to the document issued by the

Administration to a maritime training institution that has complied with all the requirements for
accreditation of a maritime training course.

4. Quality Standards System – shall refer to the documented policies, procedures, controls
and internal quality assurance system, relating but not limited to training, assessment of
competence and revalidation activities, designed to ensure the achievement of defined
objectives of the training course in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention.
5. STCW Convention – shall refer to the International Convention on Standards of Training,
Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers of 1978 (1978 STCW Convention), as amended
and its associated Code.

6. Training Completion and Record of Assessment (TCROA) – shall refer to the prescribed
document where the name of trainees who have completed the training course and the outcome
of their assessment are recorded as certified by the qualified assessor and training director of
an accredited Maritime Training Institutions.

7. Training Course – shall refer to the series of lessons composed of component modules
to teach an individual the skills, knowledge and proficiency to acquire the required competences
and be certified in accordance with the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended.

IV. GENERAL PROVISIONS:

1. Only MTIs with accredited training course(s) specified in Item II of this Circular shall
conduct training and assessment of seafarers.

2. Instructors, Assessors and Supervisors of MTIs shall meet the qualification standards as
required by MARINA. Said qualification standards shall be distributed to all MTIs accordingly.
Only instructors and assessors approved/ authorized by MARINA shall conduct training and
assessment, respectively.

3. The Certificate of Course Accreditation granted by MARINA shall cover the training and
assessment systems of MTIs.

4. The written assessment shall be conducted in the training center, while the practical
assessment of competence for the issuance of the Certificate of Proficiency (COP) shall be
conducted at the training site where the required assessment equipment are located.

5. Assessors of the MTIs shall implement accordingly the required minimum standard of
competencies as specified in the STCW Code.

6. Certificates of Completion issued by the MTIs to trainees who completed the training
course(s) shall be in accordance with the format as specified in Annex 1.

7. All training and assessment processes and procedures undertaken by the MTIs should
be in accordance with their Quality Standards System (QSS).

8. MTIs whose Certificate of Course Accreditation has expired and have not been renewed
within the prescribed period shall desist from conducting training and assessment of seafarers/
trainees. Likewise, MTI whose Certificate of Course Accreditation has been suspended shall
desist from conducting training and assessment of seafarers/ trainees during the period of
suspension.
9. Standard Processing Time (SPT) for the issuance of the Certificate of Course
Accreditation or Notice of Deficiency(ies) shall be five (5) working days after the inspection.

V. ACCREDITATION OF MARITIME TRAINING COURSES:

A. Documentary Requirements
1. Pre-requisites for Accreditation - The MTIs shall file its application at the MARINA for
any course specified using the following forms available in the STCW Office:

a. Form 1- Letter of Application under Oath

b. Form 2 - Self Assessment of Compliance to Course Program
c. Form 3 – Qualification of Instructors, Assessors and Training Director
d. Form 4 – Inventory of Training Equipment
e. Form 5 – Inventory of Teaching Aids/ References
f. Form 6 – Checklist for the Administrative Requirements such as:
• SEC registration and Articles of Incorporation and By-laws for companies or DTI
registration certificate for single proprietors (For new applicant only). The MARINA should be
notified accordingly if there are any changes in the Registration Certificate
• For existing companies/ single proprietors establishing for a branch, a Board Resolution
for SEC-registered institutions or an appropriate document signed by the proprietor shall be
required
• Proof of building ownership or lease contract of not less than three (3) years
• Safety Occupancy Certificates and updated Fire Safe Clearance
• Affidavit of Undertaking for Group Insurance Scheme for all trainees
• Location Plan of lecture and practical training site
• Center Floor Plan (office, classroom, practical training, library plus facilities, etc)
• Accessibility to medical services
• Employment Contract of Instructors, Assessors and Training Director
g. Form 9 – Training Completion and Records of Assessment (TCROA) Report Form for
the course being applied

2. The applicant MTI is also required to present to MARINA its Quality Standards System
(QSS) Manual and Assessment System Manual during inspection.

3. Upon compliance with the pre-evaluation requirements, the MTI shall be notified by the
STCW Office on the date of inspection of facilities and validation of documents. In case of
deficiencies, the MTI shall be notified accordingly.

The MTI concerned must rectify any deficiency(ies) noted during the inspection and shall submit
a compliance report on the rectifications made within thirty (30) days from receipt of the Notice
of Deficiency(ies) to the STCW Office. Such report shall be verified and validated through a
reinspection. The failure of the MTI concerned to rectify any deficiency and to submit
compliance report within the prescribed period shall be a basis for the denial of the application
for accreditation.

Should the applicant MTI be found deficient after the re-inspection, the application shall be
denied.

An application that has been denied may only be re-filed after six months from the date of
communication of such denial.

B. Schedule of Fees and Charges

1. The application for course accreditation shall be submitted and shall be received by the
STCW Office only after payment of the required fees as follows:

Filing Fee - P1,000.00 per course

Inspection/ Re-inspection Fee

• Within 10 km radius from
work station - P1,000.00 per course
• Beyond 10 km radius - P1,000.00 + P50/ km in
Excess of 10 km radius

2. The MTI shall pay the required Accreditation Fee(s) based on the Schedule of Fees as
specified in Annex 2.

C. Issuance and Validity of the Certificate of Course Accreditation

Certificate of Course Accreditation valid for three (3) years shall be issued by the MARINA
STCW Office provided the following has been complied with by the MTIs:

1. Inspected and complied with the standard requirements;

2. Paid the required Accreditation Fees; and
3. The Quality Standard System is certified by an independent Certifying Body.

D. Renewal of Certificate of Program Accreditation

1. Application for renewal of Certificate of Course Accreditation shall be filed at least six (6)
months before the expiration of the original certificate.

2. The Certificate of Course Accreditation may be renewed, provided the following

requirements have been complied:

a. The MTIs maintain its compliance with prescribed standards;

b. All deficiencies found during the unannounced inspection or monitoring have been
corrected;
c. The QSS is maintained and the latest audit report is presented during inspection to the
MARINA STCW Office Inspection Team;
d. The MTI has no pending case filed by MARINA or any entities pertaining to the conduct
of training and assessment of trainees/ seafarers on a particular course; and
e. Required fees have been paid.

E. Grounds for the Suspension/ Revocation/ Cancellation of a Certificate of Course

Accreditation

A Certificate of Course Accreditation may be suspended/ revoked/ cancelled, after due process,
due to any of the following reasons:

1. METI’s failure to maintain compliance with any of the training, course and administrative
requirements herein provided;

2. Failure to correct and implement appropriate corrective actions for any non-conformity
identified during monitoring audit by the STCW Office; or,

3. Any violation of the provisions of this Circular and other issuances of the STCW
Administration committed by the MTI concerned.

The procedure for the investigation of violation/s and the imposition of the appropriate penalty
shall be subject to the rules and guidelines issued by the Administration.

F. Responsibilities of MTIs with Approved/ Accredited Training Courses Concerned MTIs

shall:
1. Abide with all lawful instructions, orders or directives of the MARINA;

2. Ensure that only those Instructors and Assessors approved by MARINA shall conduct
training and assessment, respectively;

3. Conduct training and assessment only at the venue approved by the MARINA;

4. Ensure that its implementation of training and assessment activities is in accord with
training rules and regulations formulated and enforced by the MARINA STCW Office.

5. Allow entry of announced or unannounced inspection/ monitoring activities by the

inspectorate provided they show the proper written authority;

6. Inform the MARINA of any agreement entered into with any maritime school or training
vessel operator on the conduct of accredited training courses and submit a copy of the
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The MOA should be consistent with the existing MARINA
policies;
7. Ensure the safety and security of the trainees during the conduct of training programs;

8. Ensure that trainees are physically and medically fit prior to taking of
hazardous/strenuous training courses. (e.g. fire fighting, personal survival courses and other
shipboard training programs);

9. Ensure that training in any course shall not exceed eight (8) hours a day.
In case of holidays, the MTIs can be allowed to extend two (2) hours;

10. Submit Incident/ Accident report involving any trainee during training dates within three
(3) working days;

11. Establish a small billboard or poster in a conspicuous place of the MTIs indicating the
Certificate(s) of Course Accreditation and the name of the authorized Instructors and Assessors.
In the classrooms, the MTIs shall also post a Notice indicating that, “This classroom can only
accommodate a maximum of 24 students at any given time. Violations may be reported to
MARINA.” together with the identity of the instructor handling a particular class.

12. Submit to the MARINA STCW Office the following reports:

a. Enrolment Report on or before the start of the training using the prescribed Form;
b. TCROA Report, Course Completion Report and Copy of Certificates issued within 3
days after the date of Assessment;
c. Incident/ Accident Report involving any trainee/ seafarer, 3 days after the occurrence;
d. Findings of external auditors; and
e. Attendance of briefing or orientation that the MARINA may conduct, if necessary.

VI. INSPECTION OF MARITIME TRAINING COURSES:

The MARINA Inspection Team shall be guided by the following requirements covering the field
inspection, the training system, the assessment system and the certificated QSS of the MTIs.

1. Field inspection shall be conducted by a MARINA Inspection Team authorized under a

Special Order to verify compliance with all the prerequisites and specific key areas and criteria.
It shall involve inspection, testing of equipment, interview of personnel and checking of
necessary documents. All deficiencies found by the team shall be recorded in accordance with
the procedures prescribed by MARINA.

2. Pre-qualified supervisors, instructors and assessors specified and listed under Form 3
must be present during actual inspection.

3. Responsible official/s of the MTI shall be present during the post inspection meeting to
formally acknowledge the findings of the inspection
VII. REQUIRED SYSTEMS FOR ACCREDITATION OF MARITIME TRAINING COURSES:

A. Training System

The following key areas and criteria/ requirements shall be complied with in conducting training.
Policies, procedures and controls shall be established for each area which shall be part of the
Quality Standards System (QSS) of the MTI.

1. Implementation of the Approved Training Courses

All trainings shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention,
as amended. It is therefore essential that MTI must have a copy of the STCW Convention as
amended and the relevant IMO model courses. The objectives of the course program as stated
in the IMO model course or STCW Office developed curriculum shall be strictly followed. The
knowledge, understanding and skills which are required in the STCW Code shall be identified
and incorporated into the course framework of the relevant IMO Model Course.

For a program involving simulator-based training, the provision of

Regulation I/12 and Section A-I/12 must be fully considered, particularly
the requirement on training procedures and the qualifications of instructors and assessors.

2. Qualification of Training Supervisors, Instructors and Assessors

All training supervisors, instructors and assessors who are responsible in the implementation of
the particular course program shall be qualified in accordance with the requirements prescribed
in Annex 1. MTIs must have programs to continuously update the competence and
qualifications of these supervisors, instructors and assessors. Every training center shall be
required to have at least one (1) Training Supervisor, one (1) Assessor and one (1) Instructor
for each training courses. However, training centers should take note that an instructor cannot
conduct the assessment of his own class for purposes of certification.

3. Delivery of Instructions

Instructors shall follow the prescribed course timetable, detailed teaching syllabus and lesson
plan/ instructor’s guide for each particular program, and take into account the Instructor’s
Manual and the Guidance in the Implementation of IMO Model courses, as appropriate.

4. Entry Standards

The entry standards as prescribed in the training courses shall be met by the intended trainees.

5. Course Intake Limitations

Trainees shall not exceed 24 per class but not more than 6 in each group during practical
training.

6. Classrooms

Classrooms shall be at least 42 sq. m., preferably 6 m. by 7 m. and equipped with necessary
and required facilities.

7. Training Equipment

The training equipment listed in the approved checklists shall be available and in working
condition. Equipment other than those specified may be allowed provided they will serve the
purpose in achieving the training objective.

8. Textbooks and Teaching Aids

The required textbooks and teaching aid prescribed in the training courses shall be available;
the teaching aid shall include the necessary competency tables or syllabi in the STCW Code.
Substitution of textbooks may be allowed provided they serve the same purpose. Original
copies of textbooks should be made available during inspection.

B. Assessment System

1. The MTI is required to have an Assessment Manual using the following key elements as
guide:

a. Scope and Coverage - definitions of the following:

• Assessee
• Assessor
• Passing Candidate
• Failure Candidate
• Training Certificates
• Retraining of Candidates
• Candidates with Incomplete Requirements

b. Assessment Instrument – policy and procedures on the delivery of the following:

• Written Test
• Practical Test
• Type of Written Test (Multiple choice, essay, etc.)
• Course Intake Limitation during Practical Test
• Conduct of Assessment
• Validation of the Assessment Instrument including updating of questionnaires
c. Staff Development - policy and procedures in the hiring, recruitment, designation and
training of Assessors.

d. Facilities and Equipment - policy and procedures in the use and maintenance of facilities
and equipment required for assessment.

e. Training Completion and Records of Assessment Reports (TCROA) - policy and

procedures in accomplishing, approving, certifying and submitting of TCROA which shall include
personnel and other administrative arrangement.

f. Payment of Fees - policy and procedures for the payment of fees of trainees.

g. Monitoring and Evaluation – policy and procedures to be observed when undergoing

verification and evaluation by the MARINA
Assessors.

h. Audit Reports - policy and procedures regarding audit reports.

2. All assessors of MTIs conducting assessment of knowledge, understanding and

competence of trainees/ seafarers required under this Circular shall meet the requirements
prescribed in Annex 1.

3. MTIs may designate class instructor to act as assessor provided that the following
requirements are complied with:

a. The class instructor shall meet the qualification requirement for assessor;
b. Such arrangement shall be documented in the quality manual and appropriate methods
and procedures are provided to ensure that an instructor can perform his duties as assessor;
and
c. The instructor/ assessor shall not assess the trainees in his class.

4. Trainees who have completed a training program and have passed the required
minimum standards of competencies as specified in the STCW Code shall be issued a
Certificate of Completion.

5. The MTIs shall ensure that all trainees enrolled in a particular training program, both who
passed and failed in the training course, shall be included in the TCROA report. Likewise, those
trainees who passed the assessment shall have paid the required certification fee; otherwise,
said TCROA shall not be accepted by the MARINA STCW Office. Proof of payment shall be
attached to the TCROA.

6. Accredited MTIs shall also be allowed to accept trainees for assessment whose training
was conducted by other accredited MTIs provided that the training has been completed within
the period of five (5) years.
7. Qualifications of Assessors - all assessors of MTIs should have the following
qualification requirements:

a. He/ She should be fully knowledgeable on the standards of competence specified in the
competence table of the STCW Code for which they are designated assessor/s (e.g. an
assessor in fire prevention and fire fighting must be able to apply in practical terms the
specification of minimum standard of competence in Table A-VI/1-2 of the STCW Code;

b. He/ She should be fully knowledgeable on the general and specific learning objectives of
courses which do not have the appropriate competency tables in the STCW Code, and to use
such objectives as the criteria in evaluating the ability of the seafarer to perform the specified
task with due regard to safety; and

c. He/ She should be fully aware that his or her action to certify that a trainee has achieved
the required level of competence in a particular task, function, and responsibility has a far
reaching effect in the integrity of the documents issued under the Convention.

8. Guidelines in Assessing the Trainees/ Seafarers

a. The knowledge, understanding and proficiency of each trainee/ seafarer shall be

assessed against those specified in the competence table or the objectives of the training
courses;

b. Trainees/ Seafarers shall only be issued a passing mark if they have clearly
demonstrated the abilities, skills, and competence required;

c. The assessment of competence shall consist of the written and practical test involving
knowledge and understanding and demonstration of skill or proficiency. A careful choice should
be made in the type or method of the examination available. Strict attention shall be paid to the
security of the test which will not be compromised in any way;

d. Written examination shall be conducted after completion of each course topic or at the
end of the training course. The practical demonstration of skill or proficiency shall make use of
equipment or facilities required for the course;

e. The assessment covered by specific competence tables in the STCW Code shall be
strictly conducted in accordance with specifications therein;

f. All assessment conducted shall be documented in accordance with the attached

Training Completion and Record of Assessment (TCROA) which shall be accomplished by the
designated assessor.

C. Quality Standards System (QSS)

1. The MTIs shall establish a quality system to ensure the achievement of objectives of the
course programs, the acquisition of knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to the
examination and assessment required under the Convention, including the qualification of
Instructors, Assessors and Supervisors.

2. The QSS shall contain elements regarding institutional policies, management

responsibilities, systems and procedures, control function, internal quality review and
arrangement for external evaluation.

3. The QSS shall be evaluated at least once a year by a recognized certifying body which
shall verify and/or certify that:

a. The QSS addresses compliance of all the requirements of the specific key area and
criteria set out in the Training and Assessment
System of this Circular;
b. All internal management control and monitoring measures and follow-up actions comply
with planned arrangements and documented procedures and are effective in ensuring
achievement of the defined objectives;
c. The result of each external evaluation are documented and brought to the attention of
the responsible officials of the MTI; and
d. Timely action is taken to correct the deficiencies.

4. The verification or certification by the certifying body shall be accepted by the MARINA
STCW Office as one of the basis in issuing the
Certificate of Accreditation.

5. All QSS should be documented in a Quality Manual as specified in Section B-1/8,

Paragraph 7 of the STCW Code, to wit:

a. The mission statement of the institution;

b. Details of academic and training strategies in use;
c. An organization chart and information on the composition of committees and advisory
bodies;
d. Staff and student information;
e. A description of training facilities and equipment; and
f. An outline of the policies and procedures, which shall be posted as much as practicable
or made available to the trainees/students upon enrollment, on:
• Student admission;
• The development of new courses and review of existing courses;
• The examination system, including appeals and resits;
• Staff recruitment, training, development, appraisal and promotion;
• Feedback from students and from industry; and • Staff involvement in research and
development.
VIII. TRANSITORY PROVISIONS:

1. Certificates of Program Accreditation issued by the then Maritime Training Council

(MTC) to MTIs conducting and offering maritime training courses pursuant to Resolution No. 05,
Series of 2010 shall remain valid until the date of expiration.

2. Thereafter, the accreditation of all maritime training courses shall be in accordance with
the rules, policies and standards provided for under this MARINA Circular.

IX. REPEALING CLAUSE:

The Maritime Training Council (MTC) Resolution No. 5, Series of 2010, MTC Memorandum
Circular No. 5, Series of 2011 and all other issuances that are inconsistent with the provisions of
this MARINA Circular are hereby superseded, repealed or amended accordingly.

X. EFFECTIVITY:

This MARINA Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication once in a
newspaper of general circulation.

Manila, Philippines, December 13, 2012.

BY AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD

(Signed)ATTY. NICASIO A. CONTI

Officer-In-Charge

Secretary’s Certificate

This is to certify that MARINA Circular No. _____________ was approved by the MARINA
Board of Directors during its Regular Meeting on _______________.

(SIGNED)ATTY. VIRGILIO B. CALAG

Acting Corporate Board Secretary
_________________________________________

Republic of the Philippines

Department of Transportation and Communications
MARITIME INDUSTRY AUTHORITY
STCW OFFICE

STCW Circular No. 2016 – ____

TO : ALL SEAFARERS, MARITIME TRAINING INSTITUTIONS, SHIPPING COMPANIES,

MANNING AGENCIES, PORT STATE CONTROL AUTHORITIES AND OTHER MARITIME
INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS CONCERNED

SUBJECT : MANDATORY MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND RULES FOR THE EDUCATION

AND TRAINING, ASSESSMENT,
CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING OF ELECTROTECHNICAL OFFICERS
SERVING ONBOARD SEAGOING SHIPS POWERED BY MAIN PROPULSION MACHINERY
OF 750 KW PROPULSION POWER OR MORE
------------------------------------------------------

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 10635 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), and the
1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for
Seafarers (STCW’78 Convention), as amended, the following rules and requirements are
hereby adopted:

SECTION I. OBJECTIVES

Theobjectives of this Circular are to:

1. implement the provisions under Regulation III/6 of the STCW ’78

Convention, as amended; and

2. prescribe the rules and requirements for Electro-Technical Officers (ETOs) pertaining to:

2.1. mandatory education and training;

2.2. seagoing service;

2.3. assessment of competence;

2.4. certification; and

2.5. licensing.

SECTION II. COVERAGE

This Circular shall cover and apply to the following:

1. implementation of the mandatory education and training for ETOs referred to as the
“Electro-Technical Officer Training
Program”attached herein as Annex – I, consisting of the following:

1.1. Part A – Course Framework:

1.1.1. Scope;
1.1.2. Outcome;
1.1.3. Intended Learning Outcome per Cluster;
1.1.4. Entry Standards;
1.1.5. Training Certificate;
1.1.6. Class Intake Limitation;
1.1.7. Staff Requirements (Instructors, Assessors, Supervisor);
1.1.8. Teaching Facilities;
1.1.9. Training Equipment;
1.1.10. Teaching Aids;
1.1.11. References;
1.1.12. Textbooks; and

1.2. Part B – Curriculum Outline.

2. candidates intending to be certificated as ETO;

3. requirements for assessment, certification and licensing of ETOs; and

4. specific requirements for accreditation of Practical Assessment Centers for ETO in

addition to the general requirements as provided under STCW Circular No. 2015-10;

SECTION III. DEFINITION OF TERMS

For the purpose of this Circular, the following terms shall be construed as follows:
1. “Administration” refers to the Maritime Industry Authority, which is the
“Maritime Administration” or “Single Maritime Administration” in accordance with Sec. 2 (e) of
R.A. 10635, or simply the “Administration” under STCW;

2. “Approved”meansapproved by the Administration in accordance with the STCW ’78

Convention, as amended and other statutory rules and requirements;

3. “Assessment”refers to the process of evaluating evidence of competence through one or

more of the methods of demonstrating competence (Column 3 of the tables) under the STCW
Code;

4. “Assessor” refers to a qualified, competent and skilled person approved by the

Administration, involved in the process of evaluating evidence of competence through one or
more of the methods of demonstrating competence (Column 3 of the tables) under the STCW
Code;

5. “Candidate” refers to a person who intends to be certificated as ETO by meeting the

requirements under Regulation III/6 of the STCW ’78
Convention, as amended;

6. “Certificate of competency (COC)” refers to a certificate issued and endorsed for

masters, officers and Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) radio operators in
accordance with the provisions of Chapters II, III, IV or VII of the Annex to the STCW
Convention, entitling the lawful holder to serve and perform the functions involved at the level of
responsibility specified therein;

7. “Cluster” –refers to similar or closely related modules that are grouped together in a
particular cluster of the ETO training program.

8. “Company” refers to the owner of the ship or any organization or person such as the
manager, or the bareboat charter, who has assumed the responsibility for operation of the ship
from the shipowner and who, on assuming such responsibility, has agreed to take over all the
duties and responsibilities imposed on the company by the STCW ’78 Convention, as
amended;

9. “Competence” refers to a specific task, as identified in Column 1 of the Competency

Tables of the STCW Code, or as otherwise specifically determined by the Administration;

10. “Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)” refers to an Officer qualified in accordance with the
provisions of Regulation III/6 of the STCW ’78
Convention, as amended;
11. “Examination”refers to a formal test of a person's knowledge, understanding or
proficiency in any of the specific competencies under Column 1 of the Competency Tables of
the STCW Code;

12. “Formative Assessment” refers to the assessment at regular intervals of the training
participant’s progress with accompanying feedback in order to help improve their performance;

13. “Instructor” refers to a qualified, competent and skilled person approved by the
Administration to conduct a specific education or training program;

14. “MARINA License” refers the professional identification card issued by the
Administration to Filipino merchant marine officers;

15. “Maritime Training Institution (MTI)” refers to an institution that provides an approved
training program;

16. “Module” –refers to the group of topics specified under each function or cluster of a
training program;

17. “Month” –refers to a calendar month or 30 days made up of periods of less than one
month. For purposes of complying with the required seagoing service, one month shall be
equivalent to 30 days;

18. “Related Field of Study” –refers tofields of study considered related to the Electro-
Technical Officer training program such as Electrical Engineering, Electronics and
Communications Engineering,
Instrumentation and Control and Marine Engineering.

19. “Seagoing Service” –refers to theservice on board a ship relevant to the issue or
revalidation of a certificate or other qualification in accordance with the STCW’78 Convention,
as amended;

20. “Standard of competence” refers to the minimum knowledge, understanding and

proficiency, as listed in the relevant Column of the STCW Competency Tables, which a seafarer
must be able to demonstrate to be entitled to certification, to the satisfaction of the
Administration;

21. “STCW ’78 Convention (STCW)” refers to the 1978 International Convention on
Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for
Seafarers, and its subsequent amendments;

22. “Successfully Completed” refers to the successful completion of the training program
and passing the assessment thereof.
23. “Training Program” refers to a program designed for training in specific skills and
competenceestablished by the Administration for the acquisition of required knowledge,
understanding and proficiency leading towards certification under STCW ’78 Convention, as
amended;

24. “Workshop Skills Training” refers to the training in “electronic and electrical workshop
skills” relevant to the duties of an ETO as provided under Section A-III/6, paragraph 1 of the
STCW Code.

SECTION IV. GENERAL PROVISIONS

1. A candidate intending to be certificated as Electro-Technical Officershall complete an

approved ETO training program in accordance with Regulation III/6, paragraph [2.3] of the
STCW ’78 Convention, as amended.

2. Pursuant Regulation I/6 and Section A-I/6 of the said Convention, MTIs shall ensure that
their ETO training program shall be designed and structured in accordance with written
programs, methods and media of delivery, procedures and course materials as are necessary to
achieve the prescribed standards of competence under the Convention.

3. The MTIs shall also ensure that the Instructors and Assessors who are responsible for
the training and assessment of participants in this training program, respectively, including those
responsible for supervision thereof, are appropriately qualified in accordance the standards as
provided under this Circular.

4. MTIs intending to offer the ETO training program must havethecapability and necessary
expertise thereofand shallcome up with their own training design and structure in accordance
with Annex – Iof this Circular, subject to the filing of the necessary application, evaluation,
inspection and approval by the Administration.

5. The ETO training program shall be offered and conducted only at the approved training
venue after the corresponding approval thereof has been granted by MARINA. The training
venue that shall be considered for purposes of approval shall be the registered address of the
MTI concerned as reflected in its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration and
Articles of Incorporation and By-laws.

6. A candidate who has successfully completed the ETO training program shall also
complete the seagoing service required under Regulation III/6, paragraph [2.2] of the STCW
based on the options provided under Part A, Scope in Annex I of this Circular.

7. Upon successful completion of the ETO training program and the required seagoing
service thereof,the candidate shall qualify to undergo an assessment required under Regulation
III/6, paragraph [2.3] of STCW Convention in the form of a theoretical examination and practical
assessment.

8. A candidate who passed both the theoretical examination and practical test and,met all
otherrequirements including the ancillary qualifications under paragraph [2.4] ofSTCW
Regulation III/6 shall be qualified for the issuance of COC as ETO and a professional seafarer’s
identification card in the form of a MARINA license.

SECTION V. ETO TRAINING PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

1. Responsibility

1.1. The MTIs offering this training program shall be fully responsible in the following:

1.1.1. developing, designing and documenting their own training program;

1.1.2. ensuring effective delivery, facilitation of learning and the achievement of intended
learning outcomes as stipulated under
Part A, Annex I of this Circular; and

1.1.3. determining and setting the time needed to effectively conduct the institutional
assessment for the grantof certificate of training completion to the participants thereof.

2. Training Program Design and Documentation

2.1. This ETO training program herein provided shall have a total of 545 minimum training
hours, excluding the time needed by the institution to assess the participants for the purpose of
determining their eligibility for the grant of Certificate of Training Completion thereof.

2.2. The MTIs must take note that the aforesaid number of training hours are the minimum and
can be increasedasnecessary to cover other related topic(s) that are appropriate to achieve the
intended learning outcomes of the program and the prescribed standards of competence under
the STCW ’78 Convention, as amended.

2.3. Annex - I of this Circular provides the general framework and minimum training
requirements, which shall serve as basis for MTIs to come up with the design and structure of
their own training program, bearing in mind the responsibilities stipulated under Section V,
paragraph [1]above.

2.4. The training program shall be documented as follows:

2.4.1. Framework;
2.4.2. Curriculum outline;
2.4.3. Training program time table;
2.4.4. Detailed teaching syllabus;
2.4.5. Instructor’s guide;
2.4.6. Assessment plan; and
2.4.7. Table of specifications.

2.5. The said training program documents shall be submitted by the MTI in support of the
application for approval of its ETO training program.

3. Staff Requirements (Instructor, Assessor and Supervisor)

3.1. Every MTI offering the ETO training program shall employ fulltimeInstructor(s), Assessor(s)
and Supervisor(s)who shall be subjected to prior accreditation by the Administration.

3.2. The specific staff and qualification requirements for this training program shall be as
follows:

Staff Requirement Qualification Standards

1. For Cluster 1 and 4 1.1. Instructor:
1.1.1. a Management Level Marine Engineer Officer;
1.1.2. holder of a certificate of completion of the Training Course for Instructors
(IMO Model Course 6.09);
1.1.3. have not less than three (3) months of teaching experience “related to the field of study”
within the last five
(5) years prior to the date of application for accreditation as Instructor of this training program;
1.1.4. holder of a certificate of completion of the Train the Simulator Trainer
and Assessor (IMO Model Course
6.10);
1.1.5. gained practical experience on the operation of the particular type of Simulator being
used through a
training provided by the
Manufacturer or its authorized agent;
1.1.6. holder of a valid Certificate of
Competency (COC) as Management
Level Marine Engineer Officer; and
1.1.7. have not less than 24 months of seagoing service as Management Level Marine Engineer
Officer.

1.2. Assessor:
1.2.1. holder of a certificate of accreditation as Instructor for Clusters 1 and 4 of the ETO
training program; and
1.2.2. certificate of completion of the training course for Assessment,
Examination and Certification of
Seafarers (IMO Model Course 3.12).

Staff Requirement Qualification Standards

2. For Clusters 2, 3, and 4 2.1. Instructor:
2.1.1. an Electro-Technical Officer (ETO);
2.1.2. holder of a certificate of completion of the Training Course for Instructors
(IMO Model Course 6.09);
2.1.3. have not less than three (3) months
of teaching experience “related to the field of study” within the last five
(5) years prior to the date of application for accreditation as Instructor of this training program;
2.1.4. holder of a certificate of completion of the Train the Simulator Trainer
and Assessor (IMO Model Course
6.10);
2.1.5. gained practical experience on the operation of the particular type of Simulator being
used through a
training provided by the
Manufacturer or its authorized agent;
2.1.6. holder of a valid COC as ETO without limitation;
2.1.7. have not less than 36 months of seagoing service as ETO or as
Electrician, Electrical Officer,
Electrical Engineer, Electronics Engineer prior to the date of application for accreditation as
Instructor of this training program.
Note: An ETO who is duly accredited as Instructor for this training program shall also be
qualified and allowed to teach “Module 4. Marine Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems”
under Cluster 1.

2.2. Assessor:
2.2.1. holder of a certificate of accreditation as Instructor for Clusters 2, 3, and 4 of the ETO
training program; and

2.2.2. certificate of completion of the training course for Assessment, Examination and
Certification of Seafarers (IMO Model Course 3.12).

Staff Requirement Qualification Standards

Note:
To augment the staff complement for the ETO training program, MTIs may employ the services
of the following professionals as fulltime Instructor to handle and teachClusters 2 and 3:
• Registered Electrical Engineer; or
• Registered Electronics
Engineer; or
• Registered Electronics and
Communications
Engineer
2.3. Instructor:
2.3.1. holder of a Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC) Certificate of Passing the Licensure Examination as such;
2.3.2. holder of a certificate of completion of the Training Course for Instructors
(IMO Model Course 6.09);
2.3.3. holder of a certificate of completion of the Train the Simulator Trainer
and Assessor (IMO Model Course
6.10);
2.3.4. gained practical experience on the operation of the particular type of Simulator being
used through a
training provided by the
Manufacturer or its authorized agent;
2.3.5. have not less than 36 months of seagoing or land-based experience or a combination of
both as Electrical Engineer as specified under Section 2 [a], Article I of
Republic Act No. 7920, or as
Electronics Engineer or Electronics and Communications Engineer as specified under Section 5
[a], Article I of Republic Act No. 9292, of which not less than eighteen (18) months shall be
teaching experience “related to the field of study” within the last five (5) years prior to the date of
application for accreditation as Instructor; and
2.3.6. holder of a certificate of completion of Module 9 “Marine High Voltage” under Cluster 2 of
the ETO training
program approved by the Administration.

Staff Requirement Qualification Standards

3. Supervisor 3.1. holder of a certificate of completion of the Training Course for Instructors
(IMO Model Course 6.09); and
3.2. have not less than three (3) months of teaching experience “related to the field of study”
within the last five (5) years prior to the date of application for accreditation as Supervisor of this
training program.

Note: The MTI shall ensure that, while so accredited, the Supervisor shall have full
understanding of the training program and its intended learning outcomes.
3.3. Additionally, the MTI offering this training program shall be responsible to ensure that a
newly accredited Assessor shall:

3.3.1. Have gained practical assessment experience by participating as understudy in at least

three (3) practical assessment activities conducted by an accredited and experienced Assessor
before being assigned to perform actual assessment of participants in this training program,
pursuant to Regulation I/6.2 and Section A-I/6.6.4 of the STCW ’78 Convention, as amended;
and

3.3.2. If conducting assessment involving the use of simulator, the assessor shall have gained
practical assessment experience on that particular type of simulator under the supervision and
to the satisfaction of an accredited and experienced Assessor, pursuant to Regulation I/6.2 and
Section A-I/6.6.5 of the STCW
’78 Convention, as amended.

3.4. The MTIsshall have a quality assurance mechanism or process in its Quality Standards
System (QSS) to ensure that their Assessors shall have gained practical assessment
experience, whether involving the use of simulator or not, before performing actual assessment
of participants in this training program.

3.5. The implementation and compliance with the required quality assurance mechanismshall,
among others,be clearly and properly documented and, shall be checked and verified during the
monitoring by the Administration’s STCW Office.

3.6. Thelist of Instructor(s), Assessor(s) and Supervisor(s) shall be provided and submitted in
support of the MTI’s application for approval of itsETO training program using Form No. 3as
provided under MARINA Circular (MC) No. 2013-01, series of 2012or in its future
amendment(copy attached as Annex II hereof).

4. Training Facilities and Equipment

4.1. For the theoretical part of this training program, the MTI shall provide at least one (1)
classroomequipped with multimedia projector, a computer set, white board and other necessary
paraphernalia, as well as other facilities and fixtures needed, with floor area of not less than 42
square meters pursuant to MC 2013-01 or as provided in its future amendment. This does not,
however, prevent the MTI from utilizing additional training facilities as it may deem necessary to
facilitate the learning process.

4.2. The MTI shall provide its own training equipmentasstipulated under Part A,Annex - I of this
Circular.It must also be noted that the training equipment prescribed thereinare the minimum
and does not restrain MTIsfrom usingadditional and better equipment that can further facilitate
achieving the intended learning outcomes of the training program and the prescribed standards
of competence under the STCW.MTIs shall also ensure that the training equipment and
simulators in laboratories and simulator roomsare arranged in a manner that each trainee shall
have sufficient space and exposure to use such equipment during training and assessment
activities.

4.3. The list of Training Facilities and Equipment to be used shall be provided and submitted in
support of the MTI’s application for approval of its ETO training program using Form No. 4 as
provided under MC 2013-01, series of 2012 or in its future amendment(copy attached as Annex
III hereof).

5. Teaching Aids, References and Textbooks

5.1. The required minimum Teaching Aids and References are also provided under Part
A,Annex - I of this Circular. MTIs may include or use additional teaching aids and referencesthat
can further facilitate achieving the intended learning outcomes of the ETO training program.

5.2. Additionally, MTIs are required to identifyand provide at least two (2) titles of
textbookspermodule for thedesign and development of their own ETO training program, which
can be selected from the list provided under Part A,Annex - I of this Circular.MTIs shall be
responsible in ensuring that such textbooks are relevant and of latest edition, and made
available to the training participants to ensure that the intended learning outcomes of this
training program shall be met.

5.3. The list ofteaching aids, referencesand textbooksshall be provided and submitted in support
of the MTI’s application using Form No. 5 as provided under MC 2013-01, series of 2012 or in
its future amendment(copy attached as Annex IV hereof).

6. Administrative Requirements

MTIs shall also comply with all of the “Administrative Requirements” listed in Form No. 6as
provided under MC 2013-01, series of 2012 or in its future amendment(copy attached as Annex
V hereof). Such form shall be duly accomplished and submitted in support of the MTI’s
application for approval of its ETO training program.

7. Quality Standards System (QSS)

7.1. The MTI offering theETO training program shall have a documented Quality Standards
System (QSS) as required under Regulation I/8 of the STCW ’78 Convention, as amended.

7.2. The QSS shall include all relevant systems, processes and procedures for the effective
delivery of this training program including the assessment of participants thereof and,shall be
duly certified by an independent Certifying Body to ensure the achievement of the programs
intended learning outcomes, standards of competence, and knowledge, understanding and
proficiency prescribed under the STCW Convention.

7.3. Additionally, the QSS shall have a “quality assurance mechanism” or “process” which will
ensure that a newly accredited Assessor shall have gained practical assessment experience,
whether involving the use of simulator or not before performing actual assessment of
participants in the training program.

7.4. The implementation and compliance with the required “quality assurance mechanism” or
“process”, as well as the relevant systems, processes and procedures for the effective delivery
of this training program shall be clearly and properly documented and, shall be checked and
verified during the monitoring by the Administration’s STCW Office.

8. Assessment System

For purposes of assessing the participants in this training program to determine their eligibility
for the grant of Certificate of Training Completion thereof, the MTI must have aproperly
documented Assessment System as part of its QSSbased on the rules provided under Item VII.
B of MARINA Circular No. 2013-01 or in its future amendment, in relation to Section A-I/8 of the
STCW Code.

9. Approval of the ETO Training Program

The approval and implementation of this ETO training program shall be in accordance with this
Circular and the rules and other applicable requirements as provided under MC No. 2013-01and
in its future amendment.

10. Completion of the Training Program

10.1. Participants shall be allowed to complete this training program on a “per cluster basis”.
However, he shall only be issued a Certificate of Completion by the MTI concerned after
successfully completing all of the four (4) Clusters of the training program.

10.2. The certificate shall be in accordance with the format prescribed by the Administration as
provided under Annex VIhereof.

SECTION VI. ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION

1. The assessment of competence of candidates for certification as ETO shall be composed of

“Theoretical Examination” and “Practical Assessment of Competence”.
2. Theoretical Examination

2.1. Specific Requirements for Application

Every candidate for certification as Electro-Technical Officer shall be required to pass an

examination in accordance with Regulation III/6 of the STCW ’78 Convention, as amended. The
candidate shall file an application for examination and shall submitproof or documentary
evidence of compliance with the following requirements:

2.1.1. Completion of an approved ETO training program;

2.1.2. Completion of the mandatory seagoing service under

Regulation III/6, paragraph [2.2] for a period of:

2.1.2.1. not less than nine (9) months of seagoing service, documented in the approved Training
Record Book (TRB), as part of the ETO training program, which shall involve practical training
and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an ETO under the supervision and
monitoring of qualified and certificated officers on board the ship where the seagoing service is
being undertaken; or

2.1.2.2. not less than thirty three (33) months of seagoing service, in the engine department,
which shall be evidenced by all of the following:

2.1.2.2.1. Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book;

2.1.2.2.2. Certificate of seagoing service from the company;

2.1.3. Birth Certificate showing that that candidate is not less than 18 years of age;

2.1.4. Valid Medical Certificate, which shall not be more than 2 years from the date of issuance,
from a DOH-accredited medical clinic/hospital in accordance with Regulation I/9 of the STCW
Convention, with QSS in place.

2.2. Procedures for Theoretical Examination

The candidate shall:

2.2.1. Prior to taking the examination:

2.2.1.1. submit all the specific requirements under Section 6, paragraph 1.1above to the:

2.2.1.1.1. STCW online system for uploading of documents; and

2.2.1.1.2. the Examination and Assessment Division (EAD) of STCW Office of MARINA in
Manilaorto the EAD’s counterpart in any MARINA Regional Office that
conducts theoretical examination;

2.2.1.2. secure an online appointment number, date and time, then proceed to EAD on the
given schedule, with all the original documents, including the TRB if the seagoing service
completed is nine (9) months;

2.2.1.3. after verification of validity and authenticity of Specific Requirements, complete

the form “Application for Theoretical Examination for ETO” and indicate the
particular competences that the candidate intends to take in the examination;

2.2.1.4. pay the corresponding examination fee, which shall be a fixed amount each time the
candidate sits for the
examination, whether taken in full, partially, or re-sit;

2.2.1.5. register in the Seafarers’ Certification System;

2.2.1.6. secure a schedule from the EAD; and

2.2.1.7. proceed to the examination at the scheduled date, time and venue;

2.2.2. During the examination:

2.2.2.1. report to the examination venue at least 30 minutes prior to schedule;

2.2.2.2. follow the instructions of the authorized MARINA personnel;

2.2.2.3. take the examination only for the competences indicated in the application form;

2.2.2.4. complete the examination in every competence indicated within the time allowed;

2.2.2.5. not leave the examination premises until after completing the examination, as
scheduled;

2.2.3. After taking the examination:

2.2.3.1. secure his ratings in the various competences;

2.2.3.2. note the competences with a failing mark, if any; and

2.2.3.3. schedule for re-sit, if necessary; or

2.2.3.4. schedule other competences not yet taken, if necessary;

 2.3. Requirements to Successfully Pass the Theoretical
Examination

A candidate shall be considered to have successfully passed the theoretical examination if the
following have been complied with:

2.3.1. The candidate shall be required to pass all of the fourteen (14) competences within a
period not exceeding 2 years (24 months)
(see AnnexVII);

2.3.2. If the candidate fails to completelypass all of the said competences within the 2-year
period, those which the candidate got a “PASSED” mark shall expire immediately after 2 years,
and shall be retaken or repeated accordingly;

2.3.3. The candidate may choose as many competences as he intends

to take in one sitting;

2.3.4. However, a candidate who fails in 3 or more competences in one sitting shall not be
allowed to apply for re-sit within a period of one (1) month (“The 3-1 Rule”);

2.3.5. A candidate who fails in a particular competence for 3 times, shall not be allowed to apply
for re-sit in such competence, until upon showing proof of:

2.3.5.1. approved seagoing service for a period of not less than 3 months, with a certification
from the ship’s master that the candidate has undergone on board experience relating to that
particular competence (“The 3-3 Rule”); or

2.3.5.2. successful completion of an approved training or refresher program relating to that

particular competence, taken after the third failure.

3. Practical Assessment of Competence

3.1. Practical Assessment Centers

3.1.1. The Administration shall accredit Centers for the conduct of practical assessment of
competence of the candidates for certification as ETO.

3.1.2. It shall be the responsibility of Practical Assessment Centers to:

3.1.2.1. develop and validatetheir own practical assessment scenarios;

3.1.2.2. conduct practical assessment of competence ofthe candidates effectively and in

accordance with the STCW requirements;
3.1.2.3. issue the Certificate of Practical Assessment to the successfulcandidates thereof.

3.2. Requirements for Accreditation of Practical Assessment Centers

3.2.1. All Practical Assessment Centers shall be subjected to prior accreditation by the
Administration.

3.2.2. The accreditation shall be in accordance with STCW Circular No. 2015 – 10and based on
therequirements as provided under Annex VIIIof this Circular.

3.3. Specific Requirements for Candidates Applying for Practical

Assessment of Competence

3.3.1. Every candidate for certification as Electro-technical Officer shall be required to pass a
practical assessment of competence in accordance with Regulation III/6 of the STCW ’78
Convention, as amended.
3.3.2. The candidate shall:

3.3.2.1. file an application for practical assessment and submit proof or documentary evidence
of passing the theoretical assessment to the Examination and Assessment Division (EAD) of
STCW Office of MARINA in Manila or to the EAD’s counterpart in any MARINA Regional Office;

3.3.2.2. after verification of authenticity of the documentary evidence submitted, complete the
form “Application for Practical Assessment for ETO” and indicate the particular competences
that the candidate intends to take in the assessment;

3.3.2.3. pay the corresponding fee, which shall be a fixed amount each time the candidate
applies for practical assessment,
whether first timer or repeater;

3.3.2.4. secure the endorsement for practical assessment from the

EAD;

3.3.2.5. proceed to a MARINA-accredited Practical Assessment

Center and secure schedule of practical assessment; and

3.3.2.6. take the practical assessment on scheduled date, time and venue.

3.4. Requirements for Practical Assessment of Competence

Every candidate for certification as ETO shall demonstrate competence in the following (see
Annex IX) by:
3.4.1. under Function 1 (Electrical, electronic and control engineering at the operational level),
passing the practical assessment of competence on the following areas:

3.4.1.1. Operate generators and distribution systems; and

3.4.1.2. Operate and maintain power systems in excess of 1,000 volts;

3.4.2. under Function 2 (Maintenance and repair at the operational level), passing the practical
assessment of competence on the following areas:

3.4.2.1. Maintenance and repair of electrical and electronic equipment; and

3.4.2.2. Maintenance and repair of automation and control systems of main propulsion and
auxiliary machinery;

3.4.3. under Function 3 (Controlling the Operation of the ship and care for persons on board),
passing the practical assessment of competence on the following areas:

3.4.3.1. Application of leadership and team working skills.

3.5. Requirements to Successfully Pass the Practical Assessment

A candidate shall be considered to have successfully pass the practical assessment of

competence if the following have been complied with:

3.5.1. The candidate passed all the required competences within a period not exceeding 2 years
(see Annex X);

3.5.2. If the candidate fails to completely pass all of the required competences within the 2-year
period, those which the candidate got a “PASSED” mark shall expire immediately after 2 years,
and shall be retaken or repeated accordingly;

3.5.3. The candidate may be assessed, immediately following completion of the required
approved education and training program outlined above;

3.5.4. A candidate who fails may re-sit for the assessment of competence in any competence
immediately, if necessary;

3.5.5. A candidate who fails in the same competence for 3 times shall not be allowed toretake or
repeat such competence, until upon showing proof of an approved sea service for a period of
not less than 3 months, with a certification from the ship’s master that the candidate has
undergone on board experience relating to that particular competence (“The 3-3 Rule”).

SECTION VII. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. General Requirements for Issuance of COC for ETOs

1.1. Every candidate for issuance of COC as ETO shall meet the following requirements:

1.1.1. Proof of passing the Theoretical examination for ETO

1.1.2. Proof of passing the Practical assessment for ETO; and

1.1.3. Certificate of Proficiency (COP) on the following ancillary trainings:

1.1.3.1. Basic Training;

1.1.3.2. Ship Security Awareness and Seafarers with Designated Security Duties;
1.1.3.3. Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (other than Fast Rescue Boats); 1.1.3.4.
Advanced Fire Fighting; and
1.1.3.5. Medical First Aid.

1.1.4. The COP on the above ancillary trainings may be revalidated to a period of 5yearsin
conjunction with the validity of the COC as ETO being applied for. Otherwise, the COC shall be
valid only up to the period of validity of any of the COP’s that shall be expiring first.

SECTION VIII. LICENSE AND CERTIFICATES REQUIREMENTS

1. Documents Issued by the Administration

The following shall be issued to a candidate who hascomplied with all the requirements under
Section VII of this Circular:

1.1. COC as ETO on seagoing ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW
propulsion power or more (under Regulation III/6 of the STCW’78 Convention, as amended);

1.2. Certificate of Endorsement (COE) attesting to the issuance of the COC as ETO (under
Regulation I/2 of the STCW’78 Convention, as amended); and

1.3. MARINA License for ETO on seagoing ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750
kW propulsion power or more
(Professional ID);

2. Validity of License and Certificates

2.1. The COC as ETO shall be valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issuance thereof, or
until the validity of any of the COP’s that shall be expiring first under Section VII, paragraph
1.1.3
2.2. The COE shall have the same period of validitywith that of the corresponding COC.

2.3. The MARINA License shall also have the same period of validity with that of the
corresponding COC.

3. Renewal of MARINA License

3.1. Generally, the MARINA License shall be renewed at the same time as the revalidation of
the corresponding COC;

3.2. However, a Professional seeking renewal of the MARINA License only, without the intention
of revalidatingthe corresponding COC thereof, shall be required to undergo an approved
Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for ETO, except when the candidate:

1.1.1. has approved seagoing service as ETO of not less than 12 months within the last 5 years
or 3 months within the last 6 months prior to the expiration of the MARINA license; or

1.1.2. has approved service in the STCW Administration for a period of not less than 6 months
within the last 5 years or 3 months within the last 6 months prior to the expiration of the
MARINA license; or

1.1.3. has gained experience as an accredited Instructor,

Supervisor or Assessor of an approved ETO training
program for an aggregate period of not less than 6 months within the last 5 years or 3 months
within the last 6 months prior to the expiration of the MARINA license.

SECTION IX. REVALIDATION OF COC AS ETO

1. At intervals not exceeding 5 years, a holder of a valid COC shall revalidate it by proving
evidence of continued professional competence, which can be established by:

1.1. approved seagoing service, performing functions appropriate to ETO, for a period of at
least:

1.1.1. 12 months in total during the preceding 5 years, or

1.1.2. 3 months in total during the preceding 6 months immediately
prior to revalidating; or

1.2. having performed functions considered to be equivalent to the seagoing service required
in the immediately preceding paragraph, where 2 days of in-service experience ashore is
equivalent to 1 day of sea going service (2 to 1 ratio) as follows:

1.2.1. Service in the Administration specific to STCW-related tasks;

1.2.2. Service as active Naval or Coast Guard Officer in the Philippines under the Guidance in
Section B-IX of the STCW Code;

1.2.3. Actual days of service as an Accredited Instructor, Supervisor or

Assessor of an approved ETO training program;

1.2.4. Service as onboard ETO instructor or assessor of competence;

1.2.5. Such other functions which require, by regulation, an equivalent level of certificate of
competency, to perform the same while serving ashore; or

1.3. passing the approved practical assessment; or

1.4. successful completion of an approved training program that may be allowed by the
Administration to establish continued professional competence; or

1.5. having completed approved seagoing service, performing functions appropriate to the
certificate held, for a period of not less than 3 months in a supernumerary capacity.

2. The period of service in paragraphs 1.1 and 1.2 of Section IX above may be combined
proportionately to meet the requirement for revalidation. (Example. 6 months of approved
seagoing service; plus 4 months of service in the STCW Administration (2 to 1); plus 8 months
as an accredited Instructor (2 to 1); plus aggregate of 30 days as accredited Assessor (2 to 1) =
12.5 months total, therefore qualified for revalidation.)

3. The holder of a COC to be revalidated shall also be required to complete an approved

Updating Training as required under the STCW.

4. A corresponding Certificate of Endorsement (COE) attesting to the issuance of the duly

revalidate COC and related Certificates shall be issued upon full compliance with all the
requirements for revalidation as provided above.

5. Valid Medical Certificate, which shall not be more than 2 years from the date of
issuance, from DOH-accredited medical clinic/hospital with QSS in place, in accordance with
Regulation I/9 of the STCW Convention.

SECTION X. SCHEDULE OF FEES, FINES AND PENALTIES

The schedule of fees, fines and penalties shall be provided in a separate circular.

SECTION XI. PENALTY CLAUSE

Any violation of the provisions of this Circular and other related MARINA issuances shall be
governed and sanctioned by the provisions of the IRR for RA 10635 and MARINA Circular No.
2013 – 05 including any amendment or addendum thereof, as may be promulgated by the
Administration.

SECTION XII. REPEALING CLAUSE

This Circular repeals and supersedes the provisions of STCW Circular No.
2014-04 governing the qualification standards for Instructors, Assessors and Supervisor of the
ETO training program. Likewise, any provision of other existing MARINA and STCW Circulars,
rules and regulations, or of any other Philippine government agency related to education,
training, examination, assessment, licensing and certification of ETO on ships powered by main
propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, which are contrary to or inconsistent
with this Circular are hereby superseded, repealed or amended accordingly.

SECTION XIII. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

Should any provision or part of this Circular be declared by any competent authority to be invalid
or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions or parts hereof shall remain in full force and effect
and shall continue to be valid and effective.

SECTION IV. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE

This STCW Circular shall take effect immediately on the day of its publication.

Manila, Philippines, ____________________________.

Submitted:

HERMINIO PASCUAL P. ESTANIEL, JR., MM

Executive Director, STCW Office
Approved:

DR MAXIMO Q MEJIA, JR
Administrator

CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that STCW Circular No. _____________ was approved by the Administrator on
________________________.

ATTY. JABETH SENA JEPATH A. DACANAY

Deputy Executive Director
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MARINA CIRCULAR NO. 2013–12
Series of 2013

TO :
ALL MARITIME TRAINING INSTITUTIONS, MARITIME INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS
AND OTHER ENTITIES CONCERNED
SUBJECT : REVISED RULES ON THE ACCREDITATION OF INSTRUCTORS
AND/OR ASSESSORS

Pursuant to the Presidential Decree No. 474, Executive Order No. 125/ 125-A, Executive Order
No. 75 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) and to fully comply with the 1978
International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), as
Amended, the following rules shall be adopted in the accreditation of Instructors and Assessors:

I. OBJECTIVES:

1. To prescribe policies and guidelines in the accreditation of Instructors and/or Assessors

of maritime training institutions and/or assessment centers; and
2. To ensure that only those Instructors and Assessors accredited by MARINA shall
conduct training and assessment respectively, by the accredited maritime training institutions
and/or assessment centers.

II. COVERAGE:

This Circular shall apply to the Instructors and Assessors of training courses under the
following Chapters of the STCW Convention:

1. Chapters II and III – Relevant regulations covering the approved education and training;
2. Chapter IV – GOC for GMDSS;
3. Chapter V – Special training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships; and
4. Chapter VI – Emergency occupational safety, security, medical care, and survival
functions.

III. DEFINITION OF TERMS:

For the purpose of this Circular, the following terms shall be defined as follows:

1. Assessment Center – shall refer to an entity, public or private, recognize by the relevant
member agency to conduct competence assessment of seafarers for the purpose of issuance of
appropriate certificate required under the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended:

2. Instructor – refers to an authorized personnel of training institution/center conducting

training, teaching and instruction to all trainees who are enrolled in a particular training program.

3. Assessor – refers to an authorized personnel of the training or assessment center

conducting assessment of competence of trainees to determine if they have met the required
standard of competence as required by the STCW Code.

4. Maritime Training Institution – refers to the duly established institutions/ centers, public
or private, duly authorized by the Administration to offer maritime training courses in accordance
with the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended and the applicable laws, rules and regulations.

5. Certificate of Accreditation – refers to the document issued by MARINA to Instructors

and/or Assessors authorizing them to conduct training and/or assessment at any accredited
maritime training and/or assessment institutions/centers.

IV. GENERAL PROVISIONS:

1. All Instructors and Assessors conducting training and/or assessment to any courses
under Item II should be accredited by MARINA.
2. All new applicants for Instructor and/or Assessor shall undergo the written and oral
examination/ panel interview before the Certificate of Accreditation and Identification Card (ID)
will be issued by MARINA.

3. The issued ID to the accredited Instructors and/or Assessors shall always be worn by
the concerned assessors/instructors when conducting training and/or assessment.

4. Only those Instructors and Assessors with valid Certificate of Accreditation and ID
issued by MARINA shall be authorized to conduct training and/or assessment.

5. All Instructors and Assessors with valid certificate of accreditation and ID can teach
and/or assess any accredited maritime training institutions or assessment center without further
approval from MARINA.

6. All existing Instructor and/or Assessor shall undergo revalidation before the Accreditation
Certificate and ID will be issued by MARINA.

7. The MARINA shall establish a Pool of Examiners and/or Panel of Interviewers per
Course who will supervise the written and oral examination/interview of new applicants. Subject
to guidelines to be developed by MARINA for the purpose, MARINA may delegate to Maritime
Training Institutions and/or Assessment Centers, the function of supervising and administering
the written and oral examination/interview of new applicants for the purpose of accrediting their
training course only. The approval process for Instructors/ Assessors shall form part of their
respective Quality Standard System. The results of the written and oral examination/panel
interview shall be submitted to the Executive Director for appropriate action.

8. The list of accredited Instructors and/or Assessors shall be posted in the MARINA
website.

V. SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

1. All existing Instructors and/or Assessors previously approved by MARINA may apply
personally or may submit their application for the issuance of Certificate of Accreditation and ID
at the STCW Office, through the training or assessment center’s authorized Liaison Officers for
revalidation.

2. New Instructors and/or Assessors shall submit their documentary requirements in

accordance with the approved qualification standards to the MARINA for evaluation. Those
applicant Instructors and/or Assessors who passed the documentary evaluation shall be notified
to undergo the written and oral examination/panel interview.

3. Certificate of Accreditation and ID shall be issued within fifteen (15) days after
completion of the written and oral examination/panel interview.
4. Those applicants who failed in the written and/or oral examination/panel interview may
be allowed to re-apply after three (3) months.

5. Only the following Instructors and/or Assessors shall be accredited by MARINA and be
allowed to conduct training and/or assessment:

• For existing Instructor and/or Assessor – those who passed the revalidation
• For New Applicant for Instructor and/or Assessor – those who passed the written and
oral examination/panel interview conducted by Pool of Examiners and/or Panel of Interviewers
of MARINA or those who underwent oral/written assessment/interview administered and
supervised by Maritime Training Institution and Assessment Center.

VI. DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS:

The application for accreditation shall be accepted by the MARINA STCW Office upon
presentation of the following:

1. For Existing Instructor and/or Assessor

1.1 Application Letter

1.2 Letter of Approval issued by MARINA/TESDA or the then Maritime Training Council
(MTC)
1.3 Payment of the required fees and charges

2. For New Applicant for Instructor and/or Assessor

2.1 Application Letter

2.2 Certified True Copy of the required documents indicated in the approved Qualification
Standards issued by MARINA
2.3 Payment of the required fees and charges

VII. FEES AND CHARGES:

The payment of the following fees and charges shall be made through the MARINA Central
Office or any accessible Regional Offices:

Application and Examination Fee - P 500.00

Accreditation Fee and ID for Instructors or Assessors - P 500.00

Replacement of Lost/damaged certificate of Accreditation or ID - P 500.00

 Accreditation Fee and ID for Instructors who are at the same time
Assessors - P 1,000.00

Surcharge for Expired Accreditation Certificate/ID - P 500.00

VIII. VALIDITY OF THE CERTIFICATE AND ID:

The Accreditation Certificate and ID shall be valid for five (5) years and the application for
renewal shall be filed at least six (6) months before the expiration of the original certificate and
ID.

IX. FINES AND PENALTIES:

1. An applicant who after due process, has been found to have submitted false statement
in his application, fraudulent or tampered certificates or documents shall pay the following
administrative penalties:

First Offense - P 5,000.00

Second and Succeeding

Offenses - P 10,000.00

2. Any Certificate of Accreditation and ID issued by MARINA shall be subject to suspension

or revocation if the holder is found guilty of gross violation of this Circular.

X. TRANSITORY PROVISIONS:

All existing Instructors and/or Assessors who were previously approved by MARINA/TESDA or
the then Maritime Training Council (MTC) shall be recognized up to 31 December 2013.
Thereafter, only those have a valid Certificate of Accreditation and ID issued by MARINA shall
be authorized to teach and/or assess at any accredited maritime training institution.

XI. REPEALING CLAUSE:

All other issuances that are inconsistent with the provisions of this MARINA Circular are hereby
superseded, repealed or amended accordingly.

XII. EFFECTIVITY:

This Memorandum Circular shall take effect immediately after its publication once in a
newspaper of general circulation.
Manila, Philippines, 30 August 2013.

BY AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD:

(SGD) MAXIMO Q MEJIA JR, PhD

Administrator

SECRETARY’S CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that MARINA Memorandum Circular No. 2013-12 was approved by the
MARINA Board of Directors pursuant to Board Resolution No. 2013-01 dated 30 August 2013.

(SGD) ATTY. VIRGILIO B. CALAG

Acting Corporate Board Secretary
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Course Standard STCW Circular No. 2018-02

STCW Circular No. Series of 2018

TO: ALL SEAFAFERS, MARITIME TRAINING INSTITUTIONS, SHIPPING COMPANIES,
MANNING AGENCIES, PORT STATE CONTROL AUTHORITIES AND OTHER
MARITIME INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS CONCERNED
SUBJECT: STANDARDS FOR MANDATORY TRAINING COURSES UNDER THE STCW
CONVENTION, 1978, AS AMENDED

Pursuant to Presidential Decree 474, Republic Act (RA) No.10635 and its Implementing Rules
'and Regulations (IRR) and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification
and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention, 1978, as amended, the following rules
and regulations are hereby adopted and promulgated, thus:
OBJECTIVE
To prescribe standards for the implementation of training courses in accordance with the STCW
Convention, 1978, as amended.
 COVERAGE
This Circular shall cover all the mandatory training courses required for certification under the
STCW Convention, 1978, as amended.
Ill. DEFINITION OF TERMS
1 . Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) refer to institutions conducting maritime training courses
which are duly accredited by MARINA.
2. Course Plan is the systematic organization of course documents designed and
structured based on IMO Model Course format which contains the parts as stated in Annex Ill.
3. Instructional Materials (IMs) are materials which complement and supplement
instruction. These are also referred to as teaching aids used in the delivery of the course such
as PowerPoint Presentations or computer generated slides, exercise sheet, workbooks,
pictures, diagrams and the like.

8
4. Assessment Tools refers to the following components: context and conditions of
assessment, tasks to be administered to the trainee, an outline of the evidence to be gathered
from the candidate and evidence criteria used to judge the quality of performance.
5. Course Package includes the following course documents: Course Plan, Instructional
Materials and Assessment Tools.
6. Training Course is also referred to as Approved Training Program relevant to specific
competencies, as established and approved by the Administration.
IV. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1 . The following Annexes are hereby adopted and shall form part of this Circular:
ANNEX I — List of STCW Mandatory Training Courses
ANNEX Il — Course Framework and Course Outline ANNEX Ill Course Design
Template
ANNEX IV — Assessment System Manual Template
ANNEX V — Certificate Template
2. Annex I of this Circular list all the mandatory training courses under STCW Convention,
1978, as amended which are subject for approval process by MARINA - STCW Office.
3. Pursuant to Regulation 1/6, Section A-1/6 of STCW Convention, 1978, as amended, MT
Is shall ensure that their training courses are designed and structured in accordance with written
programs, methods and media of delivery, procedures and course materials as are necessary to
achieve the prescribed standards of competence under the said Convention.
The design and structure shall be in accordance with the template provided in Annex Ill.
They shall also ensure that the Instructors and Assessors who are responsible for the training
and assessment of seafarers in such training courses, respectively, including those responsible
for supervision thereof, are appropriately qualified in accordance with the existing qualification
standards prescribed by MARINA — STCW Office and the MT Is quality policies and
procedures.
4. The course framework and course outline contained under Annex Il mentioned above
provides the minimum training requirements and shall serve as guide for MT Is in designing and
developing their own course package.
V. SPECIFIC PROVISIONS
1 . TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
a. MT I shall develop the course package for the training course which shall consist of the
following minimum components as shown in Annex Ill.
, Course Plan
Part A: Course Framework (as provided by MARINA)
Part B: Course Outline and Timetable (as provided by MARINA)
Part C: Course Syllabus
Part D: Instructor's Guide
Part E: Course Assessment
Instructional Materials
Assessment Tools
b. The training courses shall cover the prescribed minimum subject areas/ topics as stated
in the Course Outline for each course in Annex Il.
c. The training course shall have the minimum training hours indicated in the Course
Outline, excluding the time needed for assessment of competence of trainees.
2. ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS
a. The MT I shall have an assessment system covered by its quality management system.
b. The assessment system shall cover the prescribed minimum information as stipulated in
Annex IV.
3. INSTRUCTOR, ASSESSOR AND SUPERVISOR
The Instructor, Assessor and Supervisor shall meet the qualifications standards as provided
under rules on the accreditation of instructors, supervisors and assessors of approved training
programs.
4. TRAINING FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
a. The facilities and training equipment required in Part A — Course Framework for specific
training courses as found in Annex Il of this Circular shall be complied by the MT Is.
b. The training equipment prescribed under Annex Il are the minimum and does not
restrain the MT Is to use additional equipment that can help achieve he prescribed standards of
competence under the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended.
c. MT Is shall ensure that ALL training equipment are capable of satisfying the specified
training and assessment outcomes considering the safety

and security of the trainees and personnel involved during the entire training and assessment
period.
d. The Administration shall ensure that any simulator used for training or assessment of
competence required under the Convention shall meet the prescribed standards as follows:
be suitable for the selected objectives and training tasks; be capable for the simulating the
operating capabilities of shipboard equipment concerned, to a level of physical realism
appropriate to training objectives, and include the capabilities, limitation and possible errors for
such equipment; have sufficient behavioral realism to allow trainee to acquire skills appropriate
to the training objectives; provide a controlled operating environment, capable of producing a
variety of conditions, which may include emergency, hazardous or unusual situation relevant to
training objectives; provide, an interface through which a trainee can interact with the
equipment, the simulated environment and, as appropriate, the instructor; and permit an
instructor to control, monitor and record exercises for the effective debriefing of trainees.
5. TRAINING COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS
a. MTI shall ensure that the required competences are demonstrated by the trainee prior to
the issuance of certificate of training completion.
b. The format of the certificate shall be in accordance with Annex V as provided under this
Circular.
VI. PENALTY CLAUSE
Any violation of the provisions of this Circular and other related MARINA issuances shall be
governed and sanctioned by the provisions of the IRR for RA 10635 and MARINA Circular No.
2013 05 including any amendment or addendum thereof, as may be promulgated by the
Administration.
Vll. REPEALING CLAUSE
Any provision of existing MARINA and STCW Circulars, rules and regulations, as well as all
other issuances which are contrary to or inconsistent with this Circular shall be deemed
repealed and/or superseded accordingly.

'dill. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

Should any provision or part of this Circular be declared by any competent authority to be invalid
or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions or parts hereof shall remain in full force and effect
and shall continue to be valid and effective.
IX.TRANSITORY PROVISION
The MT Is may continue to offer the approved existing training courses. However, they shall
comply with this Circular within six (6) months upon its effectivity.
Xl. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE
This Circular shall take effect immediately on the day of its publication in a newspaper of
general circulation.
Manila, Philippines, 20 APRIL 2016
Submitted:
AT
Offi
(Deputy Executive Director) STCW Office
Approved:
F PE A. JUDAN
Undersecretary for Maritime
Department of Transportation
CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that STCW Circular No. 201B. -oz was approved by the
Undersecretary for Maritime, Department of Transportation on CD ,4/7ril tug
ATTY. FER AN H. CABRAL
Attorney V ivision
STCW Office
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
STCW
INCLUDING 2010 MANILA AMENDMENTS
STCW Convention and STCW Code
2017 EDITION