In view of the mandatory full compliance to the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) effective February 01, 1999, as required by the Radio Regulations, the following minimum qualification and number of radio personnel on board Philippine registered vessels are hereby required:

1. Two deck officers (who is not the master) with General Operator Certificate (GOC) or one exclusive radio officer with both GOC and Radio Electronic Certificate (REC).

2. For ships with At-Sea (on-board) maintenance capability, two deck officers with GOC who is not the master and one non-exclusive radio officer holding both GOC and REC.

This Circular shall take effect immediately.

Adopted: 12 April 1999

(SGD.) JOSEPH A. SANTIAGO
Commissioner

(SGD.) NESTOR C. DACANAY
Deputy Commissioner

(SGD.) AURELIO M. UMALI
Deputy Commissioner