Maritime training institutes, assessment centers can now apply for accreditation

Maritime training institutions and assessment centers can now lodge their application for accreditation after the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) lifted the temporary prohibition on the acceptance of applications issued in 2018.

In an advisory issued January 7, MARINA lifted the moratorium on the acceptance of applications for the approval of Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs) and Assessment Centers (ACs).

“Recognizing the role of MTIs and ACs as indispensable partners in implementing training and assessment requirements as mandated under the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Convention, 1978, as amended, the Maritime Industry Authority has issued Advisory No. 2021-01, which lifts the moratorium or the temporary prohibition on the acceptance of applications for the approval of Maritime Training Courses and Assessment Centers,” the agency said Friday.

The issued advisory repeals STCW Advisory No. 2017-16, entitled “Moratorium on the Approval of Maritime Training Courses.”

Existing and newly formed MTIs that intend to offer programs or courses shall be required to comply with the requirements prescribed in the advisory.

Aside from MTIs, MARINA also lifted the moratorium on the accreditation of assessment centers, allowing existing and newly formed ACs that intend to offer assessment of competency to lodge their application.

They also need to comply with the requirements prescribed in the advisory posted on MARINA’s website.

The agency furthered that MTIs and ACS, which intend to offer programs or courses and assessment of competency, shall likewise comply with the existing MARINA circulars, policies, rules and regulations in the accreditation of maritime training programs or courses, and assessment of competency.

It also reminded MTIs and ACs that submission of fraudulent documents or usage of cloned, imitation, or pirated equipment and simulators shall be ground for disapproval of the application for accreditation.

Submissions must be done electronically through cloud or Google Drive, or by sending it to stcw_accre@ marina.gov.ph.