Filipino seamen getting poor certificates of proficiency

The number of Filipino seafarers considered “competent” to work in foreign vessels appear to be on the decline.

The National Assessment Center (NAC), an independent body tasked to assess the competence of Filipino seaferers, has reported fewer Filipino seafarers getting certificates of proficiency.

From 254,488 Filipino seafarers given certificates of proficiency in 2001 the number dropped by half to 112,098 in 2003 and went down further to only 85,778 certificates issued by NAC last year.

Maritime Training Council acting executive director Teresita Laurel said NAC issued certificates of proficiency to seafarers who have proven to be well-equipped in technology in shipping. NAC performs its assessment strictly so we could ensure that seafarers to be deployed abroad have achieved the required international standard of competence,” Laurel said.

As this developed, Laurel cautioned seafarers against dealing with individuals or companies that promises to facilitate the issuance of the certificates of proficiency.

Laurel said they have received reports that some so-called consultancy firms are endorsing assessment applications to the NAC for a fee or other consideration. “We have not authorized or accredited any consultancy services to endorse applications to NAC and the MTC is now monitoring the activities of these unscrupulous groups,” she added.

Laurel said that NAC had adopted new guidelines in the conduct of assessment of seafarers. The new guidelines, Laurel said, will ensure that assessors would do their job well and that all seafarers have passed the standards before they could acquire the certificates of proficiency.         – Mayen Jaymalin