NMP starts seafarer assessment pilot

TACLOBAN CITY — The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) will pilot three assessment programs for seafarer competency following a documentary evaluation and inspection by the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).

NMP executive director Victor del Rosario said the programs will strengthen the institution’s capacity to support the competency development and professional advancement of Filipino seafarers.

The assessment programs cover three areas of responsibility: Management Level for Marine Deck Officers, Officer-in-Charge of a Navigational Watch (OIC-NW), and GMDSS Radio Operators.

“This is an important milestone for NMP, complementing its existing mandate as a government maritime training and research institution, now serving as an assessment center,” Del Rosario said.

“We will pilot these practical assessments this year to ensure our assessment services are ready, consistent and responsive to the needs of Filipino seafarers,” he added.

The programs will be offered at the NMP Main Office and Training Complex in Tacloban City, giving seafarers an additional option for taking the required assessments and reducing the travel time and expenses involved in going to other maritime centers.

Marina issued its approval on 15 September, following an evaluation and inspection conducted from 20 to 24 July.

The pilot will be NMP’s first implementation of assessment services since it was accredited as an assessment center in 2025.