AMOSUP, the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines, is an organization dedicated to the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers.
Established in 1960 and later expanded through a significant merger in 1972, AMOSUP supports over 80,000 members with comprehensive services.
These include healthcare, advanced maritime training, legal assistance, and financial benefits.
AMOSUP aims to make sure Filipino seafarers receive proper training, fair pay, and access to top-notch medical and educational facilities.

What is AMOSUP?
The Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) plays a vital part in the lives of many Filipino seafarers.
Founded to protect and promote the rights and welfare of seafarers, AMOSUP has grown into a comprehensive organization with a wide range of programs and services.
Let’s delve into its history, membership details, and the services it offers to its members.
History of AMOSUP
On November 11, 1960, Capt. Gregorio S. Oca established the Associated Marine Officers’ Union of the Philippines (AMOUP) to address the concerns of licensed crew members from various shipping lines.
At the same time, Brother Donato Alarcon formed the Associated Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (ASUP) to represent the unlicensed crew.
In 1972, these two unions merged to create the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), affiliating later with the International Transport Workers’ Federation.
Today, AMOSUP boasts a membership of about 80,000 overseas Filipino seafarers.
Capt. Oca, as the elected President, envisioned AMOSUP as a union that not only protects the rights of seafarers but also provides them with world-class training and healthcare services.

Membership
Becoming a Member
To become a member of AMOSUP, seafarers must have boarded a vessel covered by an AMOSUP Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Members must apply for their AMOSUP ID within six months of disembarking from such a vessel.
Membership ID applications can be processed at various AMOSUP offices in Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao.
Requirements for Membership ID
When applying for a membership card, members need to bring one of the following documents:
- Seaman’s Book (showing the last vessel’s name and sign-off date)
- Latest pay slip or allotment slip
- Updated passbook from the Provident Fund
- Certificate of Sea Service from the manning agent
- Last contract of employment
- Endorsement letter from the manning agent
Programs and Services
AMOSUP provides a wide array of programs and services to support its members and their families.
Healthcare Services
One of the primary benefits offered by AMOSUP is access to healthcare services.
This includes medical and dental plans for members and their dependents.
Healthcare facilities are available in various locations, including Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao, enabling members and their families to receive quality medical care.
Training and Education
AMOSUP is dedicated to enhancing the skills and knowledge of Filipino seafarers.
The union operates the AMOSUP Seamen’s Training Center and the Center for Advanced Maritime Studies.
These institutions provide specialized training and professional development programs to equip and empower their members for the challenges of their profession.
Additionally, AMOSUP oversees the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific, offering world-class maritime education.
Welfare and Support
AMOSUP also focuses on the overall welfare of its members.
The union offers a Provident Fund, a Seamen’s Village, and a Sailor’s Home to support members’ financial and residential needs.
The Provident Fund helps members save for their future, while the Seamen’s Village provides housing options.
The Sailor’s Home offers temporary accommodations for seafarers in transit.
Legal Services
AMOSUP provides legal assistance to its members, making sure they receive ample and timely support in case of disputes or legal issues related to their employment.
This service helps members navigate the complexities of maritime laws and regulations, providing peace of mind.
Membership Card Application Process
Manila
- Visit the AMOSUP Records Section at G/F SEN’IN NO IE from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 3 PM.
- Collect the Membership/Updating form from the front desk.
- Fill out the form completely.
- Submit the form with the required documents for validation.
- Wait for your turn for ID capturing.
- Claim your ID.
Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao
The process is similar in Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao, with specific locations for ID capturing and processing. Members must have all the required documents and follow the steps outlined by the respective offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for an AMOSUP membership card?
All seafarers who have boarded a vessel covered by an AMOSUP CBA can apply for a membership card.
2. When can I get my membership card?
You must apply for your membership card within six months of your disembarkation date from a vessel covered by an AMOSUP CBA.
3. What should I do if I lose my membership card?
If you lose your AMOSUP membership card, you can apply for a replacement at the Records Department. You will need to bring one of the required documents and pay a replacement fee.
Video: Alam mo ba: Ano ang AMOSUP?
AMOSUP, the Associated Marine Officers and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines, is a prominent organization dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of Filipino seafarers. Established in 1972 through the merger of two unions, AMOSUP plays a vital role in advocating for better working conditions and welfare for Filipino maritime professionals.
Conclusion
AMOSUP has significantly contributed to the welfare and development of Filipino seafarers.
Through its comprehensive programs and services, the union makes it their goal that members are well-equipped, healthy, and supported in their careers.
If you are a seafarer looking to join or learn more about AMOSUP, visit their offices or website for more information.