The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has released a formal advisory to clarify the implementation of the Updating Training on Basic Training – Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (BT-PSSR) and the Revised Basic Training for Filipino seafarers.
The advisory aims to streamline the certification process, align with the latest amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and eliminate confusion regarding Certificate of Proficiency (COP) renewals.
To ensure a smooth transition and maintain compliance, MARINA has outlined the following scenarios for seafarers:
Valid COP Holders: Seafarers with a currently valid COP in Basic Training may continue to serve on board vessels until the certificate expires. To revalidate, they must complete the BT-PSSR Updating Training and meet all other standard requirements.
Expired COP Holders: Seafarers whose COP in Basic Training has already expired are required to undergo the full Revised Basic Training before a new certificate can be issued.
Training Completed but No COP Issued Over 2 Years: If the Basic Training was completed more than two years ago without a COP being issued, the seafarer must take the Revised Basic Training.
Under 2 Years: If the training was completed within the last two years, the seafarer only needs to complete the BT-PSSR Updating Training to apply for their COP.
MARINA emphasized that these clarifications are essential for maintaining the high standard of Filipino maritime professionals. By aligning local procedures with global STCW amendments, MARINA ensures that Filipino seafarers remain competitive and compliant in the international maritime labor market.
“This advisory is part of our commitment to ensuring the smooth implementation of training requirements and reducing the administrative burden on our stakeholders,” the agency stated.
MARINA urges all seafarers, manning agencies, and training centers to review these guidelines and ensure strict compliance to avoid delays in deployment or certification.
