It has been observed that there were numerous instances where fake or tampered documents were being submitted by deploying manning agencies on behalf of their hired seafarers or by seafarers themselves for purposes of registration in the POEA Registry of Seafarers.

In view of this, the deploying manning agencies are hereby advised to verify the authenticity of the documents of their seafarers before they submit the same to POEA. The deploying manning agency shall be held responsible for the submission of fake or tampered documents. Likewise, disciplinary action shall be instituted against a seafarer for submission of fake or tampered documents. Appropriate sanctions as provided in the Rules and Regulations Governing Overseas Employment shall be imposed on the erring party/parties.

This Circular shall take effect immediately.

For your information and guidance.

Adopted: 25 June 1996