In the light of numerous reports and complaints where seafarers are allegedly being required to take unnecessary trainings by certain entities, we would like to reiterate POEA Memorandum Circular No. 04, series of 2002 entitled "Guidelines on the Implementation of the Basic Safety Training and Instruction and Other Certification Requirements for All Seafarers" and its Annex entitled "STCW `95 Certificates/Documents to be carried by Filipino Seafarers On Board Foreign-flagged Ships".

The certificates/documentary evidences required for specific positions aboard specific types of ships are detailed in Annex I^* of the said circular and is hereby attached anew, duly amended to include MEFA which was covered by MC 04-A, series of 2002.

Likewise, reiterated and underscored are the following provisions, to wit:

6. Additional training courses for seafarers may only be required if such training is duly confirmed in writing by the employer/principal as necessary pursuant to the function which the seafarer is expected to perform on board the ship.

7. Manning agencies shall be held administratively liable under present rules and regulations on overseas employment, as amended, for any violation of the above guidelines.

Please be guided accordingly.

Adopted: 26 March 2004


(SGD.) ROSALINDA DIMAPILIS-BALDOZ
Administrator

---

^* Text Available at Office of the National Administrative Register, U.P. Law Complex, Diliman, Quezon City.