MARINA clarifies penalty rules for seafarers with expired documents

MARINA clarifies penalty rules for seafarers with expired documents
Carmela I. Huelar May 29, 2026 https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/29/business/maritime/marina-clarifie...

​MANILA, Philippines — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) issued a clarification on Friday regarding the imposition of penalties on seafarers working aboard international vessels with expired identification and record documents.

​Under MARINA Advisory 2026-29, the agency outlined specific guidelines on when fines will be applied based on existing maritime regulations.

According to MARINA, seafarers will not face penalties if they hold any of the following document combinations:

​1. A valid Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and a valid Seafarer’s Record Book (SRB), even if their Seafarer’s Identity Document (SID) has expired.
​2. A valid SID and a valid SIRB, regardless of whether they hold a valid SRB.
​3. An expired SID, provided their SIRB remains valid.

The agency emphasized that holding a valid SIRB is sufficient to avoid penalties while onboard.

MARINA also stated that penalties will be imposed on seafarers operating in international waters under the following conditions:

​- Both the SIRB and SID are expired, even if the SRB is valid.
​-The SID is expired and the seafarer does not possess an SIRB.
​-The seafarer only carries an SRB.

​MARINA reiterated that a valid SIRB, or a combination of a valid SRB and a valid SID, serves as the primary required documentation.

​Following the validation process, MARINA said it will notify affected seafarers who have been penalized regarding the next steps of the administrative process.

​All seafarers, shipping companies, and manning agencies are advised to strictly comply with these guidelines to avoid financial penalties.

MARINA further clarified that the new advisory does not amend Memorandum Circular Nos. MD-2024-01 and GC-2026-02, which remain in full effect.