Marina opens reviewer portal

Marina opens reviewer portal
Genivi Verdejo February 23, 2022 https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/02/23/business/maritime/marina-opens-re...

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) encouraged more seafarers to access its competency reviewer portal (CRP), which enables them to prepare for their upcoming examination, whenever and wherever they want.

Marina said the implementation of the portal is beneficial to Filipino seafarers because it's free to all qualified seafarers who are aiming to take the exam. The CRP enables seafarers to maximize their time and access the system based on their availability at the comforts of their homes and even while onboard. It is focused on the topics appropriate to the level of examination a seafarer will take, which ensures a more focused review.

The CRP is an online review platform designed to help seafarers prepare for their Theoretical Examination, which is a prerequisite for a seafarer to obtain a certificate of competency (COC) as a licensed merchant marine officer that ensures their competency to go onboard.

The CRP, launched on Nov. 18 2021 is now fully functional. The first batch of seafarers was able to secure their examination schedule on Jan. 5, 2022 at the Marina Central Office.

"Given the time constraint that most seafarers encounter due to the duration of the contract, training, vacation time and with the present Covid-19 quarantine protocols which require a great deal of time taken away from our seafarers, the Marina CRP is a great avenue for seafarers to prepare for their upcoming examination and to be in control of their own schedule," Marina said.

Marina Administrator Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad AFP (Ret) and STCW Office Executive Director Vice Admiral Rene Medina AFP (Ret) conceptualized the Marina CRP.

It became a reality under the supervision of Dalmacio Gonzales, Jr., division chief of the Information Communication and Technology Management Division (ICTMD), and through the skillful efforts of Marjorie Mae Cruzat, information technology officer. Cruzat, who programmed the system, received an Outstanding Achievement Award for her exceptional skills and meritorious services rendered beyond the call of her normal duties.