(File photo)
MANILA – The seaman’s book is now free for new applicants while the renewal fee will have a 50 percent discount, Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade said.
During the Talk to the People on Monday evening, Tugade said Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has approved the new pricing of the seaman’s book—also known as the seafarer’s identification and record book—and will remain valid for the rest of President Rodrigo Duterte’s term in office.
“Ito ‘ho ang tulong natin sa seafarers, ito ‘ho ang isang tulong natin sa ating mga bayani habang may pandemya (This is our help to seafarers, this is our assistance to our heroes during the pandemic),” Tugade said.
He also said the renewal discount will remain until December this year.
A seaman’s book is a comprehensive document, like a passport, that details the professional life of a seafarer and is a standardized requirement for the profession.
It contains the details of where, when, how, and which vessel a seafarer has served on as well as other personal information. (PNA)
