During a recent hearing, a case was recounted involving a student’s plight regarding the delay in the release of a Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SO Number) since 2023. The student reported being passed between the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Coast Guard without resolution. This situation has sparked numerous complaints from both students and graduates who have fulfilled their academic requirements but are hindered from progressing due to unissued documents.
The Union of Filipino Seafarers (UFS) highlighted that the issue extends beyond individual cadets, impacting the shipping industry as a whole, which is grappling with a shortage of qualified ship officers. The group expressed optimism that the ongoing Senate inquiry would lead to the identification of long-term solutions and expedite the processing of SO Numbers for aspiring Filipino seafarers.
In response to these challenges, a MARINA official acknowledged the complexities involved in consolidating maritime education requirements. This difficulty arose following the transfer of regulatory responsibilities from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to MARINA, as mandated by Republic Act No. 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. MARINA is now tasked with overseeing maritime education, training, and certification programs, ensuring they meet international standards such as those set by the STCW Convention.
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