The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has announced the deferral of the implementation of the National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test (NaMMAT) for Academic Year (AY) 2026-2027.
Under this new directive, all Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs) are instructed to admit and enroll incoming students and transferees without requiring the aptitude test as an enrollment prerequisite.
The decision, formalized through MARINA Advisory No. 2026-34, comes in response to feedback and concerns raised by various industry stakeholders. The temporary suspension will allow the Agency to conduct a comprehensive review of the examination’s framework and implementation strategy.
Key directives for maritime schools and students:
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Admission Requirements: MHEIs must wave the NaMMAT requirement for AY 2026-2027 enrollment.
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Institutional Screening: Maritime schools are authorized to continue utilizing their own institutional admission or entrance examinations to screen and select incoming students.
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Quality Assurance: MARINA encourages MHEIs to strengthen their localized admission processes, ensuring they remain strictly aligned with national and international maritime education standards.
This policy adjustment is anchored on Republic Act No. 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). The landmark legislation officially transferred the jurisdiction over Maritime Education and Training (MET) from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to MARINA.
In line with the transitory guidelines established under MARINA Advisory No. 2025-39, the Agency is preparing to assume full responsibility for administering the NaMMAT. The current deferment serves as a strategic preparatory period to refine the system based on stakeholder feedback.
MARINA reaffirms its steadfast commitment to elevating the quality of maritime education and training in the Philippines. Further guidance regarding the NaMMAT will be issued to the public once the comprehensive review is concluded.
