MANILA, Philippines — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has introduced a significant update to its online booking platform aimed at reducing wait times and increasing appointment availability for seafarers across the country. This enhancement will add up to 340 additional appointment slots each day for the processing of Seafarer’s Record Books (SRB) and Seafarer’s Identity Documents (SID) through the eGovPH mobile app. This update addresses a long-standing inefficiency in the appointment system.
Previously, if a seafarer with a regular appointment opted for expedited processing, their original slot would go unused. The new system automatically recycles these canceled slots, making them available immediately for other seafarers. This real-time automation prevents the expiration of unused appointments, thereby maximizing the operational capacity of processing centers nationwide and improving mariners’ chances of securing their desired dates.
MARINA clarified that the newly available slots will appear only after another seafarer’s expedited appointment has been processed. As these transactions occur continuously throughout the day, the additional slots will be accessible at random intervals on the eGovPH app. Seafarers are encouraged to check the app regularly, as MARINA remains dedicated to leveraging digital solutions to streamline the licensing and document application processes for the vital maritime workforce.
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