The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has issued new guidelines aimed at increasing the pool of qualified officers onboard ships operating in Philippine waters, while streamlining certification processes for seafarers.
Under Memorandum Circular No. MD-2026-02, MARINA aligned the issuance and reissuance of Domestic Certificate of Competency (DCOC) with revised minimum safe manning requirements, particularly for Philippine-registered ships operating in Philippine waters.
โThe issuance of this circular is a proactive step toward strengthening our domestic maritime workforce,โ said MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan. โBy expanding opportunities for qualified seafarers while maintaining standards of training and competency, we are ensuring safer operations and more reliable shipping services across the country.โ
The policy seeks to expand the pool of qualified officers, addressing the current manpower constraints within this sector. MARINA is confident that the measure could benefit around 1,400 Philippine-registered ships operating domestically.
Among the key changes is the opportunity to upgrade for holders of Major Patron and Marine Diesel Mechanic 2 licenses, allowing them to assume higher positions, provided they meet the necessary additional training and longer sea service requirements.
The agency also simplified the certification process by eliminating redundant and unnecessary documentary requirements, particularly for those manning smaller boats or watercraft.
The certification process is complemented by MARINAโs program of providing free training for BC1 and Motorman applicants.
The circular also underscores the importance of continuous competency development.
The DCOC will remain valid for five years from issuance to maintain seafarersโ competency and adherence to safety standards.
Existing certificates issued under previous regulations will remain valid until their expiration dates. The agency also emphasized that there are no changes to the applicable fees for the issuance of DCOC as outlined in its omnibus guidelines on fees and charges.
