-
The Maritime Industry Authority officially implemented a new policy that simplifies licensing requirements and broadens career opportunities for domestic seafarers
-
The reform introduces a 10-year license ID card to replace the Certificate of Marine Profession, without additional fees, providing long-term convenience for seafarers
-
MARINA is enhancing maritime accessibility by exempting Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering graduates from redundant training and allowing shore-based mechanics with 24 months of experience to qualify as Motormen
-
Aligned with the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, MARINA’s newly approved policy aims to elevate domestic maritime safety and workforce readiness by implementing rigorous assessment and training standards for ship officers and watchkeepers
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) officially implemented a new policy that simplifies licensing requirements and broadens career opportunities for domestic seafarers. The new guidelines, detailed in Memorandum Circular No. MD-2026-01 (Series of 2026), establish updated standards for the training, certification, and assessment of key domestic roles, including Major and Minor Patrons, Boat Captains, Marine Diesel Mechanics, and Motormen.
A cornerstone of the reform is the introduction of a new license ID card that boasts a 10-year validity period. This new credential replaces the previous Certificate of Marine Profession without additional fees, providing significant long-term convenience for seafarers. Under the new system, candidates for various deck and engine officer positions must pass specific assessments—ranging from oral and practical exams to theoretical tests—to ensure they meet the required standard of competence.
The policy offers a significant advantage to graduates of formal maritime programs. Individuals who have completed a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation or Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering—as well as those with Associate degrees or Completed Classroom Instructions—are now exempt from certain additional training courses.
Specifically, these graduates no longer need to undergo separate training for Ship Handling and Safe Navigation or Engine Operation and Maintenance, as these competencies are now recognized as integrated parts of their academic curricula.
New pathways for technical talent
In an effort to boost the number of skilled personnel on Philippine-registered vessels, MARINA has opened a new pathway for shore-based engine mechanics. These professionals can now qualify for a Motorman license provided they have at least 24 months of shore-based experience.
This inclusion is part of a broader “rationalization” of sea service and education requirements intended to make seafaring careers more accessible without compromising safety or environmental protection standards.
Approved by the MARINA Board on January 27, 2026, the circular aligns with Republic Act No. 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
According to MARINA, the policy’s primary objectives are to enhance the assessment of officers on domestic ships and to ensure that all personnel performing watchkeeping duties are trained to meet high-level standards. The agency expects these changes to increase the number of qualified officers in the domestic trade, ultimately enhancing maritime safety and workforce readiness across the archipelago.
