MANILA – All seafarers who are completing their competence assessment under the old system of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) have been given a final extension, with the deadline now set on June 30.
In an advisory on Wednesday, MARINA said the extension was based on its Memorandum Circular SC-2020-03 and would include seafarers who exceeded the two years prescribed for expiring theoretical examination records from March 13, 2020 onwards.
“Moreover, effective 1 July 2021, the assessment of competence shall be under the new system, in accordance with the applicable provisions of STCW Circular No. 2018-08 and STCW Circular No. 2018-09,” MARINA said.
It said in a situation where a seafarer was not able to pass the theoretical exam on or before June 30, they may apply and retake the exam under the new system.
If a seafarer passed the Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch (OIC-NW) exam under the old system but was not able to take the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Radio Operator exam on or before June 30, they may apply and take the GMDSS Radio Operator exam under the new system.
If a seafarer passed the theoretical exam but was not able to take the practical assessment under the old system on or before June 30, they may take the practical assessment under the new system.
MARINA noted that all requirements stipulated under STCW Circular 2018-08 or 2018-09, as applicable, are still required when a seafarer applies for assessment of competence under the new system. (PNA)
