Marina swamped by defective seafarer’s book applications

Marina swamped by defective seafarer’s book applications
Lorenz S. Marasigan April 28, 2025 https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/04/28/marina-swamped-by-defective-sea...

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is grappling with mounting challenges in processing seafarer’s book applications, with a “significant” number either incomplete or filed by applicants who fail to meet qualifications.

Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan appealed to seafarers to carefully read and comply with documentary requirements to help ease the agency’s workflow.

“Aapila po ako sa ating mga seafarers na basahin po nating mabuti kung ano ang mga kinakailangan ninyong mga dokumento at proseso. Sa libo-libong applications na natatanggap namin, marami po roon ang kulang ang dokumento o hindi sila qualified kaya tumatagal ang proseso,” she said.

Malaluan explained that many applicants mistakenly believe that mere submission guarantees approval, not realizing that incomplete filings cause unnecessary bottlenecks in the system.

In response to the problem, Malaluan said Marina has been upgrading its digital platforms, launching new portals and developing information materials designed to guide seafarers through each step of the application process.

Malaluan emphasized that while the agency is committed to streamlining procedures, the cooperation of seafarers is critical to ensuring faster turnaround times.

“It’s a big help if everything is read and understood first,” she pointed out.

She assured that “the agency remains committed to streamlining processes,” but stressed that “seafarers’ cooperation is crucial to avoid unnecessary delays in securing their documents.”