OWWA expands upgrading program for seafarers

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has expanded its Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP) by adding more courses to the list of trainings offered under it.
In a news release, the OWWA said the following courses were included in the SUP in compliance with the prescribed maritime training courses of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Convention 2010 Manila Amendments:
  • Advanced Training for Liquefied Gas tanker Cargo Operations (ATLGT)
  • Ship’s Catering Services NC 1
  • General Operator’s Certificate for Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
It said the expansion was decided upon following a series of consultation-meetings with representatives from the labor and manning groups of the sea-based sector.
The OWWA said it expanded its SUP as part of its "commitment to regularly update and improve its programs and services for Filipino seafarers to meet International Maritime Organizations’ (IMO) competency standards."

The courses were added to the existing list of Deck Courses, Engine Courses, Specialized and Safety Courses, and Culinary, Galley and Steward Department offered under the program.

However, the following courses shall no longer be offered under SUP as they have been replaced by updated and advanced versions in compliance with the STCW requirements/competencies:
  • Specialized Training in Chemical Tanker
  • Specialized Training in Liquefied Gas Tanker
  • Specialized Training in Oil Tanker
  • Messman Course

SUP is a training assistance for member-seafarers for short-term maritime courses, approved by Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), to upgrade their knowledge and skills and to ensure their competitive advantage in the global maritime industry. —KBK, GMA News

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