In connection with the proposed transfer of the function to issue and reissue permit to  operate/offer new training course to maritime training centers, from CHED to MTC and in connection also with the full implementation of the STCW 78 Convention as Amended and in view of the pending general review of the inspection documents for all MTC prescribed courses, the following shall be observed:

1. There shall be a suspension on issuance and reissuance of permit to operate/offer a new course by maritime training center to new applicants. Those with pending applications that have initially been acted upon by the Maritime Training Council Technical Working Group (MTC-TWG) prior to the issuance of this memorandum circular shall be considered. Effective 05 October 1995 no new application will be accepted.

2. There shall be a moratorium on the inspection of existing accredited maritime training centers from 05 October 1995 to 31 January 1996.

3. The expired training permits issued by  the Commission on Higher Education  to all accredited maritime training centers prior to the effectivity of this moratorium shall still be recognized by all concerned government agencies until the full implementation of the new guidelines which will take effect on 01 February 1996.

4. All training certificates issued within this transition period shall be honored and authenticated by MARINA and POEA.

5. Effective 01 February 1996 the MTC-TWG shall use the new set of inspection documents in the inspection of training facilities, aids, materials and equipment, administrative and teaching staff, library holdings, evaluation of instruction and instructor ™s qualifications.

This  Memorandum shall take effect immediately.

Adopted: 4 Oct. 1995

(SGD.) JOSE S. BRILLANTES
Acting Secretary
Department of Labor and Employment
Acting Chairperson
Maritime Training Council