Filipino seafarers who want to process their Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) or seaman’s book can now do so online. The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has launched the SIRB Online Appointment System, which will start handling transactions and application on November 5, 2018.
Seafarers can set up their appointments with MARINA to process their seaman’s book by visiting the website at https://online-appointment.marina.gov.ph. All seafarers with appointment schedules must appear physically at the MARINA on the specified date and time for image capturing and processing.
The online system was formally launched during the Usapang STCW Forum attended by more than 800 stakeholders in the maritime industry. The forum involved discussions about on maritime training, education and certification for Filipino seafarers, including strategies on how to produce more competent seafarers and to ensure quality maritime education. The forum also talked about training programs compliant with the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers 1978 (STCW).
Notable participants of the forum were representatives from the Philippine Coast Guard, the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Joint Manning Group (JMP).
Last year, Filipino seafarers contributed $5.8 billion to the Philippine economy. The SIRB Online Appointment System aims to reduce the time seafarers spend for the processing of their documents, so that these unsung heroes can spend more time with their families and loved ones. With this online appointment system, seafarers can schedule their appointment at the MARINA at their most convenient date and time.
The SIRB online appointment system is in line with MARINA’s 14 Point Agenda for 2018, which calls for the computerization and automation of the agency’s processes, among others.
