The Certificate of Competency (COC) issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is a key document that seafarers in the Philippines need to legally work on board ships, both domestically and internationally.
This certificate serves as official proof that a seafarer is qualified to perform specific duties based on their training and the international standards set by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
Understanding the Certificate of Competency (COC)
The COC is a standardized document that certifies a seafarer’s ability to fulfill specific roles on a vessel.
The roles vary depending on the type of ship and the specific responsibilities of the seafarer.
Issued by MARINA, the COC is aligned with the STCW Convention, an international agreement that ascertains that seafarers meet minimum training and certification standards.
Types of Certificates of Competency (COC)
There are various types of COCs available depending on the rank or position of the seafarer.
Some of the most common types include:
- Master Mariner: For those responsible for the overall operation and safety of the vessel.
- Chief Engineer: For those in charge of maintaining and operating the vessel’s engine and machinery.
- Chief Mate: For officers who assist the Master in navigating and managing the vessel.
- Second Engineer: For those working directly under the Chief Engineer, responsible for the ship’s machinery.
- Deck Officer (OIC-Navigational Watch): For seafarers performing tasks related to navigation, cargo handling, and vessel maintenance.
- Engine Officer (OIC-Engineering Watch): For those responsible for operating and maintaining the vessel’s machinery in the engine room.
Each COC is designed to certify the seafarer’s specific duties, making it a mandatory requirement to work in their respective positions on ships.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a COC, you need to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.
The general qualifications include:
- Completed Training: You must have completed the required training programs approved by MARINA, all of which align with the STCW Convention.
- Sea Service Experience: Proof of your seagoing service is needed, typically verified by a Company Sea Service Certificate or Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB).
- Medical Fitness: A valid medical certificate following the Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) format is mandatory to prove you are physically fit to work on a vessel.
- Professional Assessment: Passing a theoretical examination and practical assessment with verification from MARINA is required to prove competency.
Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to apply for your Certificate of Competency (COC) from MARINA:
- Complete the Required Training and Assessments
Before submitting your application, make sure you’ve completed all required training programs.
The programs include courses such as:
- Basic Training (BT)
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB)
- Advanced Fire Fighting (ATFF)
- Medical First Aid (MEFA)
For higher-ranking positions like Master Mariner or Chief Mate, additional specialized training, such as the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) or Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), may be required.
After completing the training, you must also pass a theoretical exam and practical assessment.
These exams test your knowledge and competence in performing the duties expected of your position.
- Gather the Required Documents
For a smooth application process, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready.
Some of the key documents required for a COC application include:
- Theoretical Examination and Practical Assessment Results: These must have a verification stamp from MARINA.
- Company Sea Service Certificate or SIRB: Proof of your sea service, signed and verified by your company.
- Last Issued COC/COE: If you are revalidating your COC, provide a copy of your previously issued certificate.
- Training Certificates: Copies of all required training certificates, such as BT, PSCRB, ATFF, MEFA, and specialized courses like ECDIS or GMDSS (for specific ranks).
- Medical Certificate: A valid PEME-format medical certificate, confirming your fitness for duty.
- Passport-Size Photo: One passport-size photo with a white background. The photo should show you in a uniform with the appropriate shoulder board, depending on your rank (4 bars for Master Mariner or Chief Engineer; 3 bars for Chief Mate or Second Engineer).
- Submit Your Application to MARINA
After preparing your documents, you need to submit your application to the MARINA office.
You can do this by visiting a MARINA Processing Center in person or by submitting your documents online, depending on the system in place at your chosen MARINA location.
Pay attention to the deadlines and fees associated with the application.
Fees vary depending on the type of COC you are applying for, and there may be additional charges for expedited processing, especially if you are about to embark on a new contract.
- MARINA Verification and Issuance
After submitting your documents, MARINA will begin the verification process.
This step includes checking all submitted documents, training certificates, sea service proof, and medical certificates for accuracy and authenticity.
If everything is in order, MARINA will issue your Certificate of Competency (COC).
This certificate will allow you to work legally on board ships in both domestic and international waters.
Maintaining and Revalidating Your COC
Your Certificate of Competency is not a lifetime document and will need to be revalidated before it expires.
Revalidation is necessary to confirm that you are still qualified to perform your duties.
To revalidate your COC, you need to provide:
- Proof of Sea Service: Demonstrating that you have completed the required number of months working on board a vessel.
- Refresher Training: Depending on your rank, you may need to complete refresher training or new courses to stay updated on maritime regulations and procedures.
- Valid Medical Certificate: A PEME-format medical certificate confirming that you are still fit for duty is required during revalidation.
Revalidation is necessary for keeping your certification current and maintaining continued legal employment in the maritime industry.
Conclusion
The Certificate of Competency (COC) issued by MARINA is a key document for seafarers in the Philippines.
It certifies that you are qualified to perform your duties on board ships and is mandatory for legal employment both domestically and internationally.
By following the steps outlined in this guide—completing the necessary training, gathering required documents, submitting your application, and staying on top of revalidation—you can successfully obtain or renew your COC and continue your career as a seafarer.
This certification not only opens up employment opportunities but also confirms your commitment to professional development and maritime safety.