The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers the Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP) to bolster the skills and competencies of Filipino seafarers. This initiative provides financial assistance for various training courses, ensuring that our mariners remain competitive and compliant with international maritime standards.
What is the Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP)?
The SUP is a scholarship grant designed to enhance the expertise of Filipino seafarers. By offering financial aid ranging from â±1,200 to â±7,500, OWWA supports seafarers in enrolling in courses accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and other recognized training centers. This program ensures that our seafarers are well-equipped to face technological advancements and adhere to global maritime standards.
Eligibility Criteria for SUP
To qualify for the SUP, applicants must:
- Be Filipino citizens.
- Have active OWWA membership at the time of application:
- First-time applicants should have at least one OWWA membership contribution.
- Subsequent applications are permissible after every three recorded OWWA membership contributions.
- Submit applications within 90 days of their most recent arrival in the Philippines, whether on vacation or after contract completion.
Required Documentation
Applicants need to prepare the following:
- Duly accomplished application form.
- Proof of active OWWA membership, such as the official receipt of OWWA membership contribution.
- Two recent 2à2 ID photos.
- Seaman’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and/or original passport.
- Most recent proof of billing or residence.
Application Process
The steps to apply for the SUP are as follows:
- Visit the designated OWWA Regional or Satellite Office to obtain the application form.
- Complete the application form and attach all necessary documents.
- Submit the application to the OWWA office.
- Await confirmation from an authorized OWWA representative regarding the application’s status.
- Upon approval, receive the Notice of Award (NOA), which must be claimed within 45 days. Present this NOA to the chosen training center to confirm enrollment.
Available Training Courses
Seafarers can choose from a diverse range of courses under the SUP, categorized into Deck Courses, Engine Courses, and Specialized Courses.
Deck Courses
- Cargo Handling and Care of Cargo
- Deck Watchkeeping (DWK)
- Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)
- General Operator’s Course for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GOC for GMDSS)
- Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting & ARPA Application (RNRPUA)
- Radar Simulator Course
- Radio Electronics Officer’s Course (REOC)
- Ship Simulator Bridge Teamwork (SSBT)
- Trim and Stability
Engine Courses
- Auxiliary System
- Control Engineering
- Engine Room Simulator Course
- Engine Watchkeeping (EWK)
- Lathe Machine Course
- Marine Diesel Engineering
- Shipboard Welding and Lathe Machine
Specialized Courses
- Advanced Training in Fire Fighting (ATFF)
- Advanced Training in Oil Tanker (ATOT)
- Advanced Training in Chemical Tanker (ATCT)
- Advanced Training in Liquified Gas Tanker (ATLGT)
- Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations
- Basic Training for Liquified Gas Tanker Cargo Operation
- Crisis Management
- Crowd Management
- Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Course
- Marine Pollution Consolidated (MARPOL I-VI)
- Medical Care (MECA)
- Medical Emergency First Aid (MEFA)
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (PSCRB)
- Shore-based Fire Fighting
- Basic Baking
- Basic Culinary
- Catering Management – Chief Cook Course
- Basic Food Service Management
- Galley and Provision Management
- Housekeeping Management (Steward Course)
- Advanced Messman Course
- International Cooking
- Specialty Cuisine
These courses are designed to address the evolving demands of the maritime industry, ensuring that Filipino seafarers remain at the forefront of global maritime operations.
Benefits of the SUP
The SUP offers several advantages:
- Financial Assistance: Qualified beneficiaries receive up to â±7,500 per training course. While this grant covers a significant portion of the training fees, any additional costs are the responsibility of the applicant.
- Skill Enhancement: The program provides opportunities to acquire new skills or upgrade existing ones, making seafarers more competitive in the global maritime industry.
- Compliance with International Standards: The courses ensure that Filipino seafarers meet international maritime standards, enhancing their employability worldwide.
General Guidelines
Applicants should note the following:
- Processing Time: Applications are processed within two days for NCR residents and seven days for non-NCR residents, provided all requirements are complete.
- Training Completion: Applicants must complete the requirements of the enrolled training program for the fee to be waived.
- Financial Coverage: The SUP covers up to â±7,500 per training course. Any additional costs beyond this amount are the responsibility of the applicant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the SUP available only for active seafarers?
No, the SUP benefits active, returning, and first-time Filipino seafarers. Even those intending to become seafarers for the first time can avail of this program, provided they have active OWWA membership upon application.
2. Where can I enroll if I apply for SUP?
SUP grantees may enroll in any MARINA or TESDA-accredited training course offered by MARINA, TESDA, or any OWWA-accredited training center.
3. How often can I apply for the SUP?
There is no limit to how often one can apply for the program. However, to allow for newer applicants, subsequent applications are allowed only every six years or after every three recorded membership contributions.
The OWWA Seafarers’ Upgrading Program is a testament to the commitment to enhancing the skills and competencies of Filipino seafarers. By providing financial assistance for a wide array of training courses, the program ensures that our mariners are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving maritime industry. Seafarers are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to bolster their skills, comply with international standards, and advance their careers in the global maritime sector.