Republic of the Philippines
Department of Transportation and Communications
MARITIME INDUSTRY AUTHORITY
STCW OFFICESTCW Circular No. 2014 - 07
TO:

ALL MARITIME INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS, MARITIMEHIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS, OTHER ENTITIES AND
INDIVIDUALS CONCERNEDSUBJECT :IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ENHANCED SUPPORT LEVELPROGRAM FOR STCW CERTIFICATION AS RATINGSFORMING PART OF A WATCH AND RATINGS AS ABLESEAFARER----------------------------------------------------------Pursuant to Republic Act No. 10635 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations(IRR) and the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certificationand Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers, as amended, the following rules are
hereby adopted, to wit:
1. OBJECTIVES:
1. To prescribe the rules, standards and procedures for implementation of theEnhanced Support Level Programs (ESLP) for certification of seafarers as
Ratings Forming Part of a Watch and Ratings as Able Seafarer, which aims to:
1.1. Produce competent seafarers at the deck support level and enable theacquisition of the skills and knowledge needed by such seafarers toaccomplish their future duties, tasks and responsibilities pursuant to STCW
Regulations II/4, II/5, VI/1, VI/2.1 VI/6, part of II/1 and the National Standard
Requirements;
1.2. Produce competent seafarers at the engine support level and enable theacquisition of the skills and knowledge needed by such seafarers toaccomplish their future duties, tasks and responsibilities pursuant to STCW
Regulations III/4, III/5, VI/1, VI/6, part of III/1 and National Standard
Requirements;
1.3. Enhance the training of seafarers at the deck and engine support level
through exposure to general education and technical courses at the college
level (e.g. plane and spherical trigonometry, speech communication with IMO
SMCP, computer applications and networking); and1.4. Provide an option for maritime higher education institutions (MHEIs) under
the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to convert their BS programs
into the ESLP and produce qualifications at other levels that are aligned with
the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF);
2. To ensure complete, effective and timely compliance with the 1978 STCW
Convention, as amended.
Page 1 of 21

2. COVERAGE:
This Circular shall apply to all MHEIs, both government and private, whose Bachelorof Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) and/or Bachelor of Science in Marine
Engineering (BSMarE) programs would be converted into the Enhanced Support
Level Programs (ESLP).
3. DEFINITION OF TERMS
For the purpose of this Circular and in addition to the terms defined under STCW
Circular No. 2014-01, the following terms shall be construed as follows:
3.1 ―Assessment‖ refers to the process of evaluating evidence of competence
through one or more of the methods of demonstrating competence (Column 3 of
the Tables) under the STCW Code;
3.2 ―Competence‖ refers to a specific task, as identified in Column 1 of theCompetency Tables of the STCW Code, or as otherwise specifically determinedby the Administration, that pertains to the learning outcomes applied in context or
the ability that extends beyond the possession of knowledge and skills, including:1) the cognitive competence involving the use of theory and concepts as well as
informal tacit knowledge gained experientially; 2) functional competence (skills or
know-how), those things that a person should be able to do when they work in aparticular area); 3) personal competence involving knowing how to conduct
oneself in a specific situation; and 4) ethical competence involving thepossession of certain personal and professional values;
3.3 ―Course‖ refers to the discrete component in a maritime education degree
program with a specified title and description of coverage, learning context andgoals, and the learner’s responsibilities;
3.4 ―Course Specifications‖ refers to a mapping/specification of thecompetence/knowledge, understanding and proficiencies, performance andapproximate hours for attaining the standards of STCW, as amended, covering
the description of each course – i.e. course name that may include course
numbers to indicate the sequential/ordinal nature of the courses, e.g. English 1
and English 2 and the course description of the coverage, characteristics andcontent of teaching and learning, the academic demand and/or responsibility ofthe student, the independence of students in the pursuit of learning, and thedepth of learning in the course shall be contained in the course syllabus;
3.5 ―Curriculum‖ refers to a specification of the learning outcomes of the proposed
degree program – i.e. what students are expected to know, understand and beable to do after completing the program—that shows the minimum unit
requirements to attain them; a summary of required courses, electives, major
courses, among others, and the minimum acceptable level of demonstrated
achievement (evaluated against assessment criteria) for awarding credits;
3.6 ―Enhanced Support Level Programs‖ (ESLP) refers to programs that areespecially designed to take into consideration the value added to the training ofPage 2 of 21

active Filipino seafarers —i.e. their exposure to general education and technicalcourses at the college level—in addition to compliance with the STCW
requirements for certification as Ratings Forming Part of a Watch and Ratings asAble Seafarer. The programs aim to enhance the competitiveness of Filipino
seafarers in the international maritime industry as they perform support level
functions and responsibilities at the deck and engine departments of seagoingships. For the deck department, the program shall be called the Enhanced
Support Level Program for Marine Deck (ESLPMD) and Enhanced Support Level
Program for Marine Engineering (ESLPME) for the engine department;
3.7 ―Learning outcomes‖ refers to the clear statements of what the learner is
expected to know, understand and do as a result of a learning experience;
3.8 ―Outcomes-based Assessment‖ refers to a direct assessment of educational
outcomes at the program level, with the evaluation of individual programs thatlead to those outcomes, where the program outcomes are largely measured inline with the policies, standards and guidelines of the discipline, which, in thecase of maritime education, are aligned with the STCW standards, as amended,
as well as those of other international conventions, as applicable;
3.9 ―Outcomes-based education‖ refers to an educational approach that implies thebest way to learn is to first determine what needs to be achieved. Once thedesired results or ―exit outcomes‖ have been determined, the strategies,
processes, techniques and means are put in place to achieve predeterminedgoals. In essence, it is a working backwards with students as the center of thelearning-teaching milieu;
3.10 ―Program of Study‖ refers to the articulation of learning outcomes and thecorresponding courses, sequence and credit number assigned to courses
intended to develop the required learning competencies and achieve thresholdstandards of a particular discipline;
3.11 ―Seagoing ship‖ refers to a ship other than those which navigate exclusively
in inland waters or in waters within, or closely adjacent to, sheltered waters or areas
where port regulations apply;
3.12 ―STCW Code‖ refers to the Seafarers’ Training, Certification andWatchkeeping Code, as adopted by the 2010 STCW Conference, except asotherwise expressly stated;
3.13 ―STCW Convention‖ or ―STCW‖ refers to the 1978 International Convention
on the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers 1978,
its subsequent amendments and associated STCW Code;3.14 ―Support Level‖ refers to the level of responsibility associated with performing
assigned tasks, duties or responsibilities on board a seagoing ship under the
direction of an individual serving in the operational or management level; and3.15 ―Unit‖ refers to the credits of a course that can be transferred to a qualification
other than the one for which it is obtained.

Page 3 of 21

4. GENERAL PROVISIONS:
4.1 Minimum Standard. The minimum standards are expressed as a minimum setof desired program outcomes and are found in Item V, A [2] of this Circular. The
minimum curricular requirements are shown in Item V, B hereof.
The Course Specifications for these special programs are similar to thespecification of the first year courses in the BSMT and BSMarE programs withthe addition of Machine Shop 3 and Engineering Materials for ESLPME and,English 3 for both of the special programs. Course specifications for specificcourses at the support level are provided under Item V, B [2.5] of this Circular.
The physical resource requirements for the library, laboratories and otherfacilities and the human resource requirements in terms of administration andfaculty are in Item V, C hereof.
4.2 Curricular Standard. The MHEIs are allowed to design curricula suited to theirown contexts and missions in the spirit of academic freedom provided that they
can demonstrate the attainment of the required minimum set of outcomes at the
support level, fully compliant with the Minimum Standard, albeit by a different
route. In the same vein, they have latitude in terms of curriculum delivery and thespecification and deployment of human and physical resources as long as they
can show that the attainment of the program outcomes and satisfaction ofprogram educational objectives can be assured by the alternative means they
may propose.
5.

SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

5.1

PROGRAM SPECIFICATIONS

5.1.1 Program Description.1

Program Name

As provided under Sec. 3.6 of this Circular, the title of the enhanced support
level programs covered herein shall be Enhanced Support-Level Programfor Marine Deck (ESLPMD) and Enhanced Support-Level Program forMarine Engineering (ESLPME), respectively. Consequently, a student whocompleted such special program and who has complied with all therequirements provided herein shall be conferred a Certificate as having
completed the ESLPMD or ESLPME, accordingly.
.2

Nature of the Field of Study.1

The ESLPMD is a two and a half (2.5) year special program
addressing the competences required for Ratings Forming Partof a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) and Ratings as Able Seafarer
Deck (ABD) as defined in the STCW Convention, Regulations
and Codes.

.2

The ESLPME is a two and a half (2.5) year special program
addressing the competences required for Ratings Forming Part
Page 4 of 21

of an Engineering Watch (RFPEW) and Ratings as Able
Seafarer Engine (ABE) as defined in the STCW Convention,
Regulations and Codes.
.3

Program Goals
.1

.2

.4

The ESLPMD aims to:.1

Produce graduates who are fully conversant with thebasic principles to be observed in keeping a navigational
watch as per Table A-II/4, Table A-II/5,Table A-VI/1-1 to
4, Table A-VI/2-1, Table A-VI/6-1 of the STCW Code; and.2

Provideand equip
students
with knowledge,
understanding, proficiencies, competencies, attitudes andvalues to qualify them for Assessment and Certificationas:.1

Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch;.2

Ratings as Able Seafarer Deck.

The ESLPME aims to:.1

Produce graduates who are fully conversant with thebasic principles to be observed in keeping an engineering
watch as per Table A-III/4, Table A-III/5, Table A-VI/6-1 &2, and Table A-VI/1-1 to 4 of the STCW Code; and.2

Provideand equip
students
with knowledge,
understanding, proficiencies, competencies, attitudes andvalues to qualify them for Assessment and Certificationas:.1

Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch;.2

Ratings as Able Seafarer Engine.

Specific Professions/careers/occupations for graduates.1

A graduate of the ESLPMD is prepared for occupation as,
among others:
.1
.2
.3
.4

.2

Ordinary Seaman
Able-Bodied Seaman
Boatswain
Any similar occupation in the Deck Department, as Rating

A graduate of the ESLPME program is prepared for occupationas, among others:
.1

Wiper
Page 5 of 21

.2
.3
.4
.5

.5

Oiler
MotormanFitterAny similar occupation in the Engine Department, as
RatingAllied Fields.1

Subjects taken under the ESLPMD program except those thatpertains to RFPNW and ABD can be credited for BSMT
program, subject to the evaluation of the admitting MHEI.

.2

Subjects taken under the ESLPME program except those thatpertains to RFPEW and ABE can be credited for BSMarE
program, subject to the evaluation of the admitting HEI.

5.1.2 Program Outcomes
The minimum standards for the ESLPMD and ESLPME are expressed in thefollowing minimum set of learning outcomes:.1.2

Common to all programs in all types of higher education institutions:.1

Articulate and discuss the latest developments in the specificfield of practice;.2

Effectively communicate orally and in writing using both English
and Filipino;.3

Work effectively and independently in multi-disciplinary andmulti-cultural teams;.4

Act in recognition
responsibility; and.5

Preserve and promote ―Filipino and cultural heritage‖ (based on
RA 7722).

ofprofessional,socialandethicalCommon to the discipline:.1

Survive at sea in the event of ship abandonment;.2
Minimize the risk of fire and maintain state of readiness to
respond to emergency situation involving fire;.3

Fight and extinguish fires;.4
Take immediate action upon encountering an accident or othermedical emergencies;.5Comply with the emergency procedures;
Page 6 of 21

.3

.6

Take precautions
Environment;toprevent

pollution.7

Observe safe working practices; and.8

Demonstrate security practices.

of

the

MarineSpecific to a sub-discipline and a major.1.2

The graduates of the ESLPMD shall have acquired theknowledge and competencies necessary to perform thefollowing tasks, duties and responsibilities at the support level:.1

Steer the ship and also comply with helm orders in the
English language;.2

Keep a proper look-out by sight and hearing;.3

Contribute to monitoring and controlling a safe watch;.4

Contribute to a safe navigational watch;.5

Contribute to berthing, anchoring and other mooring
operations;.6

Contribute to the handling of deck cargo and stores;.7

Contribute to the safe operation of deck equipment andmachinery; and.8Contribute to deck shipboard maintenance and repair.

The graduates of the ESLPME shall have acquired theknowledge and competencies necessary to perform thefollowing tasks, duties and responsibilities at the support level:.1

Carry out a watch routine appropriate to the duties of a
Rating Forming Part of an Engine-room Watch;.2

For keeping a boiler watch, maintain the correct waterlevels and steam pressures;.3

Contribute to the monitoring and control of an engineroom watch;.4

Contribute to fuelling and oil transfer operations;.5

Contribute to bilge and ballast operations;.6

Contribute to the operation of engine-room equipment
and machinery;.7

Safe use of electrical equipment;
Page 7 of 21

.8

Contribute to shipboard maintenance and repair in theengine-room; and.9Contribute to the handling of stores in the engine-room.

5.1.3 Minimum Performance Indicators
The minimum performance standards as per Course Specifications are based from
STCW Code A, Tables of Competence II/4, II/5, and III/4 and III/5.
5.2

CURRICULUM

5.2.1 Curriculum Description.1.2

The ESLPMD shall consist of a minimum of 116 total credit units. The
program is comprised of the general education component following
the CHED general education curriculum – B (GEC B) under CHED
Order (CO) No. 4 Series of 1997, special professional courses, andOnboard Training and Physical Education (PE). This set of courses
prepares the students to become competent and competitive deck
support level seafarers.
.1

The sequencing of the courses according to pre-requisites andco-requisites as per BSMT shall be observed.

.2

The Onboard Training complies with the provisions of STCW
Regulations II/4 and II/5 supported by a duly accomplished
Training Record Book for Ratings.

The ESLPME shall consist of a minimum of 116 total credit units. The
program is comprised of the general education component following
the CHED general education curriculum – B (GEC B) under CO No. 4
Series of 1997, special professional courses, and Onboard Training
and Physical Education (PE). This set of courses prepares the students
to become competent and competitive engine support level seafarers.
.1

The sequencing of the courses according to pre-requisites asper BSMarE shall be observed.

.2

The Onboard training complies with the provisions of STCW
Regulations III/4 and III/5 supported by a duly accomplished
Training Record Book for Ratings.

5.2.2 Curriculum Outline.1 The ESLPMD minimum curriculum shall be comprised of the following:
Course
Math
Math
Math

No.

Descriptive Title

1
2
3

College Algebra
Plane and Spherical Trigonometry
Solid Mensuration

Hours
CreditLec. Lab. Units
3
0
3
3
0
3
3
0
3

Remarks

Page 8 of 21

EnglishEnglishEnglish1
2
3

Computer
Filipino1

Filipino2

Study & Thinking Skills in English
Writing in the Discipline
Speech Communication with IMO
SMCPComputer Applications &Networking
Komunikasyon sa Akademikong
Filipino
Pagbasa at pagsulat Tungo sa
Pananaliksk

3
3
3

0
0
0

3
3
3

2

3

3

3

0

3

3

0

3

(Minimum curriculum for ESLPMD continued…)
CourseNo.

Descriptive Title

PE
PE
Humanities
Humanities
Nat. Sci.
Nat. Sci.
Soc. Sci.

1
2
1
2
1
3
4

Navigation
Navigation
Mar Law
SL
Nav. Watch
SL
Nav. WatchSL
Ship
Knowledge
Emergency121

Basic Swimming
Advanced Swimming
World Culture & Geography
EthicsGeneral Physics
General Chemistry
The Lifeworks & Writings of Jose
Rizal
Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation 1
Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation 2
Intro. to Maritime Law & Security
Awareness
Navigational Watchkeeping SL 1

2

Hours
CreditLec. Lab. Units
0
2
1
0
2
1
3
0
3
3
0
3
2
3
3
2
3
3
3
0
3

Remarks

3
3
1

3
3
0

4
4
1

2

3

3

Navigational Watchkeeping SL 2

1

2

2

General Ship Knowledge & Bridge
Lay-out
Emergency Equipment &ProceduresMarine Environmental Protection

3

0

3

1

0

1

1

0

1

A-II/4 Comp 3 KUP 6
plus A-II/5 F3 Comp 3

A-VI/6-1 plus
introduction Mar Law
A-II/4 Comp 1 & Comp
2 plus B-II/4 item 1 & 3
A-II/4 Comp 3 KUP 2-5
plus A-II/5 Comp 1
A-II/4 Comp 3 KUP 1
plus introduction
A-II/4 Comp 4

MarineEnv.
Seam. SL1

Seamanship SL 1

2

2

3

A-II/5 F1 Comp 2 KUP 1
item 1 plus F3 Comp 1
KUP 1 item 1-5 plus B-II/4
item 5 & 6

Seam. SL

2

Seamanship SL 2

1

3

2

A-II/5 F3 Comp 1 KUP
2 & 4 plus B-II/4 item 2

Seam. SL

3

Seamanship SL 3

2

2

2

A-II/5 F1 Comp 2 KUP 1
item 2-4 & KUP 2 plus F3Comp 1 KUP 1 item 6 &KUP 3

Seam. SL

4

Seamanship SL 4

1

3

2

Cargo

1

Cargo Handling SL 1

2

0

2

Cargo

2

Cargo Handling SL 2

2

1

2

A-II/5 F3 Comp 2 plus
F4 plus B-II/4 item 9
A-II/5 F2 KUP 2 plus BII/4 item 7 & 8
A-II/5 F2 KUP 1
Page 9 of 21

Sub-Total

64

35

Onboard Training
Basic Training (BT)Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats [otherthan Fast Rescue Boats] (PSCRB)
Ship Security Awareness Training and Seafarers with
Designated Security Duties (SSAT-SDSD)

76
40

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

GRAND TOTAL:ISF-TRB for Ratings
shall be used
Students must obtainand present their
Certificate of Proficiency(COP) for BT, PSCRB &SSAT-SDSD in order tobe issued their Certificate
in ESLPMD

116.2 The ESLPME minimum curriculum shall be comprised of the following:

Filipino1

Filipino

2

PEPE
Humanities
Humanities
Nat. Sci.
Nat. Sci.
Soc. Sci.

1
2
1
2
1
3
4

Mach.
Shop
Mach.
Shop
Mach.
Shop
E-Mat
Draw
Mar Law
SL
MarineEnv.
Emergency

1

Hours
CreditLec. Lab. Units
College Algebra
303Plane and Spherical Trigonometry303Calculus and Analytic Geometry
3
03
Study and Thinking Skills in English
3
0
3
Writing in the Discipline
303
Speech Communication with IMO
3
0
3
SMCP
Computer Applications and2
3
3
Networking
Komunikasyon sa Akademikong
303Filipino
Pagbasa at pagsulat Tungo sa
303
Pananaliksk
Basic Swimming
02
1
Advanced Swimming
02
1World Culture and Geography
303
Ethics303General Physics
2
3
3
General Chemistry
2
3
3
The Lifeworks and Writings of Jose
3
0
3
Rizal
Machine Shop 1
1
4
2

2

Machine Shop 2

1

4

2

3

Machine Shop 3

1

4

2

Engineering Materials
Engineering Drawing
Intro. to Maritime Law and Security
Awareness
Marine Environmental Protection

4
0
1

0
2
0

4
1
1

1

0

1

Emergency Equipment andProcedures

1

0

1

Course
Math
Math
Math
EnglishEnglishEnglish

No.
1
2
3
1
2
3

Computer

Descriptive Title

Remarks

A-III/5 F3 KUP 6 & 7

A-VI/6-1 plus
introduction Mar Law
A-III/4 Comp 1 KUP 4
plus A-III/5 F4 Comp 2
A-III/4 Comp 3
Page 10 of 21

Ship
Knowledge

General Ship Knowledge andBridge Lay-out

3

0

3

Eng Watch
SL

1

Engine Room Watchkeeping SL 1

2

0

2

Eng WatchSL
Eng Watch
SL

2

Engine Room Watchkeeping SL 2

2

3

3

3

Engine Room Watchkeeping SL 3

2

3

3

A-III/4 Comp 1 KUP 1
plus A-III/5 Comp 2
KUP 1 plus
introduction
A-III/4 Comp 1 KUP
2,3,5,6 plus A-III/5 F1Comp 1
A-III/4 Comp 2 plus AIII/5 F1 Comp 2 KUP 2
A-III/5 F1 Comp 5 KUP
2 plus F4 Comp 1 & 3plus B-III/4 item 4(Minimum curriculum for ESLPME continued…)

Electro SL

Electro Technology SL

Hours
CreditRemarks
Lec. Lab. Units
A-III/5 F2 plus B-III/4
2
3
3

PP
Systems

Pumping and Piping Systems

1

3

2

Maint SL

Maintenance and Repair SL

1

3

2

Sub-Total

62

41

76

CourseNo.

Descriptive Title

Onboard Training

40
-

-

-

-

-

-

Basic Training (BT)Ship Security Awareness Training and Seafarers with
Designated Security Duties (SSAT-SDSD)
GRAND TOTAL:

item 2
A-III/5 F1 Comp 3,4,5
KUP 1 plus B-III/4 item
1
A-III/5 F3 KUP 1-5
plus B-III/4 item 3

ISF-TRB for Ratings
shall be used
Students must obtainand present their
CertificateofProficiency (COP) for
BT & SSAT-SDSD inorder to be issued their
Certificate in ESLPME

116

5.2.3 Program of Study.1

Maritime higher education institutions intending to offer the ESLP shall be
responsible for setting their own program of study subject to the provisions on
pre-requisites and co-requisites of this Circular. Provided that, such programof study shall be revised depending on the K-12 adjusted professional trackprogram that may be set by the STCW Administration, the needs of industry,current trends and practices, the effect of promulgation of new laws, and local
and international rules and regulations. Provided further, that all prescribedcourses/competencies under the STCW are offered and complied with subject
to the approval of MARINA and CHED.

Page 11 of 21

.2

Curriculum Mapping. The curriculum mapping for the ESLPMD and ESLPME
as herein provided can be found under Annex “A” and Annex “B”,
respectively, of this Circular.

5.2.4 Course Specifications.1.2

For ESLPMD:.1

The course specifications for General Education Courses,
Navigation 1 and 2 and English 3 are the same as prescribedunder the BSMT program.

.2

The course specifications for support level deck shall be issued
through another Circular.

For ESLPME:.1

The course specifications for General Education Courses,
Machine Shop 1, 2, and 3, Engineering Materials, Marine
Engineering Drawing and English 3 are the same as prescribedunder the BSMarE program.

.2

Course specifications for support level engine shall be issued
separately from this Circular.

5.2.5 Program Delivery
The above courses shall be delivered through any or a combination of the following
methods: lecture, laboratory exercises, simulation or any form of practical orinteractive exercises.
The MHEI offering the ESLP shall develop its own Detailed Teaching Syllabus (DTS)
and Instructor’s Guide (IG) including the assessment standards, in compliance with
the STCW Code.
5.2.6 Standards Governing Safety and Security Courses
The standards implemented by the Administration shall apply.
5.2.7 Standards Governing the Use of Simulators
The standards as prescribed by the STCW Convention Regulation I/12 as adopted
by the BSMT and BSMarE programs shall apply.
5.2.8 Onboard Training.1

All administrative requirements under CMO 02, Series 2012 and its
subsequent amendment shall apply.

.2

ESLPMD onboard training requirement:.1

To qualify for RFPNW, the candidate shall have undergone
minimum of two (2) months sea going service on board a vesselof 500 GT or more documented in an approved Training Record
Book for Ratings.

Page 12 of 21

.2

.3

5.3

To qualify for ABD, the candidate shall have undergone twelve(12) months of seagoing service as a watchkeeping deck rating
onboard a vessel of 500 GT or more documented in an
approved Training Record Book for Ratings, after having beenpreviously qualified as a RFPNW.

ESLPME onboard training requirement:.1

To qualify for RFPEW the candidate shall have undergone
minimum of two (2) months sea going service on board a vesselof 750 KW propulsion power or more and accomplished an
approved Training Record Book.

.2

To qualify for ABE the candidate shall have undergone 6
months of seagoing service as a watchkeeping engine rating
onboard of vessel of 750 KW propulsion power or more
documented in an approved Training Record Book for Ratings
after having been previously qualified as a RFPEW.

REQUIRED RESOURCES

5.3.1 Program Administration.1

Organization

The ESLP may be administered by a separate Department Chair under the
MHEI’s Department/College of Maritime Education.
.2

Qualifications of the ESLP Department Chair:.1.2

For ESLPMD:.1

BSMT graduate.2

Valid License in the Operational Level – Deck (or higher).3

At least 1 year practice as OIC Navigational Watch (OICNW).4Three (3) years teaching experience.5Completed the following training courses:.1

IMO Model Course 6.09 (Training Course for
Instructors)

.2

IMO
Model
Course
3.12(Assessment,
Examination and Certification of Seafarers)

For ESLPME:.1

BSMarE graduate.2

Valid License in the Operational Level – Deck (or higher).3

At least 1 year practice as OIC Engineering Watch (OICEW).4Three (3) years teaching experience.5Completed the following training courses:
Page 13 of 21

.3

.1

IMO Model Course 6.09 (Training Course for
Instructors)

.2

IMO
Model
Course
3.12(Assessment,
Examination and Certification of Seafarers)

The Department Chair/Head may be allowed a maximum
teaching load of eighteen (18) hours a week.

5.3.2 Faculty.1

Faculty members teaching General Education Courses shall beholders of an appropriate master’s degree in his/her field ofspecialization. However, in specific fields where there is dearth ofholders of Master’s degree, a holder of professional license requiring atleast a bachelor’s degree may be qualified to teach.

.2

Faculty members teaching Physical Education (PE) courses shall beholders of a Bachelor’s degree in PE or Bachelor of Science in
Education with major or minor in PE, or any other bachelor’s degreewith certificate in PE.

.3

Faculty members teaching Professional Courses shall be holders of a
relevant academic degree, professional license and valid certificate ofregistration, experiences and credentials as follows:.1

BSMT/BSMarE degree;.2

Holder of a valid license and certificate of registration as OICNW/OIC-EW;.3

Holder of not less than 12 months of sea-going experience as
an OIC-NW on seagoing vessel 500 GT and over; or OIC-EW
on seagoing vessel 750 GT and over;.4

Certificate of completion of the ―Training Course for Instructors‖(IMO Model Course 6.09); and.5

Certificate of completion of the ―Train the simulator trainer andassessor course‖ IMO MC 6.10 if teaching a subject using
simulator.

.4

The faculty may be allowed a maximum teaching load of 40 hours per
week.

.5

Professional Courses are courses which are mandated byprofessional licensing bodies/entities in the case of academic programswith government licensure examination.

.6

Technical Courses covered by STCW Tables A-II/4, II/5, III/4 and III/5
can be handled by experienced Ratings provided they have thefollowing additional qualifications:Page 14 of 21

.1

Completed IMO Model Course 6.09;.2

At least 5 years seagoing experience as a Rating on board; and.3

Certificate of Competency/Proficiency (COC/COP) as Able
Seafarer Deck or Able Seafarer Engine.

.7

The Technical Courses may also be delivered by a faculty who isqualified to teach Professional Courses.

.8

Faculty members teaching courses which fall under the category ofallied fields as enumerated under Item 5.1.1.5 of this Circular shall beholders of the following:.1

Appropriate Bachelor’s degree in such allied fields;.2

Valid certificate of registration and license of his/her profession;
and.3

Certificate of completion of the ―Training Course for Instructors‖(IMO Model Course 6.09).

.9

The faculty members may be allowed a maximum teaching load of 40
hours per week.

.10

For faculty members teaching with the use of simulator, the sameprescribed standards for BSMT and BSMarE programs shall apply.

.11

A faculty member with a very satisfactory teaching performance may
be allowed to handle additional six (6) teaching hours per week.

.12

There shall be a Faculty Manual containing information and policies
on:
.1
.2
.3
.4
.5
.6
.7

Functions and responsibilities;
Hiring, retention, promotion and separation;
Ranking system;
Evaluation;
Salary rates;
Faculty benefits; andCode of conduct/ethics.

.13

Faculty-Student Ratio. For effective teaching-learning process thefollowing faculty-student ratio per lecture class shall be a maximum of
1:50.

.14

For the Student-Equipment Ratio, refer to the respective course
specifications.

Page 15 of 21

.15

Faculty Development. MHEIs must develop and implement a systemof faculty development for professional advancement and to ensure
continued competence of their faculty members for the ESLP.

5.3.2 Assessments and Assessors.1

The maritime higher education institutions shall institute a system andstructure of assessment that will ensure the achievement of student
competencies to comply with STCW standards. The MHEIs shall makesure that there is sufficient number of qualified assessors for thevarious courses including the ESLP.

.2

The Designated assessors shall:
.1
.2
.3

have an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of
the competence to be assessed;
be qualified for the task for which the assessment is being
made;have undergone training in:.1―Training Course for Instructors‖ (IMO Model Course
6.09);.2―Assessment, Examination and Certification of Seafarers‖(IMO Model Course 3.12);.3―Train the Simulator Trainer and Assessor Course‖ (IMO
Model Course 6.10), or an approved training course forSimulator Instructors and Assessors by the Philippines’
STCW Administration for those assessing competence
using simulators;.4

Gained practical assessment experience (e.g. teaching for atleast one semester in the related subject and as assistant to an
experienced assessor for at least one semester); and.5Gained practical assessment experience on the particular typeof simulator under the supervision and to the satisfaction of anexperienced assessor for assessments involving the use ofsimulators.

5.3.3 Institutional Site and Building.1

An MHEI shall own its institutional sites and buildings to conform with
CHED standards, building code and city/provincial ordinances. The
institutional sites and buildings shall be equipped with adequate
equipment, safety measures and procedures in the following:.1

Fire escape;.2

Fire alarm systems; and.3Campus security force.
Page 16 of 21

.2

Site/Building/Room Requirements shall include the following:.1

Institutional site/lot;.2

Athletic field and/or gymnasium;.3Administrative Offices (General or Executive Office, Registrar,
Accounting, Guidance and Placement Office);.4

Medical and dental clinic;.5

Toilets;.6

Canteen/cafeteria;.7

Faculty room;.8

Student lounge;.9

Library room;.10

Laboratory room

.11

Tool room.12

Shipboard Training Office

5.3.4 Classroom
The standard classroom shall be a minimum of 30 square meters for a class of 25
students and 56 square meters for a class of 50 students. Classrooms must be welllighted and well-ventilated. They should contain the necessary equipment andfurniture such as chairs, instructor’s podium and black/white boards.
5.3.5 Library
The library shall be administered by a professional librarian. The librarian mustpossess a valid Professional Regulation Commission Identification Card (ID).
.1

Library Holdings.1

Basic Collection:.1 General Education courses should have not less than five (5)titles per course;.2 Professional Book Holdings:.1 Five (5) titles per professional course.
Manuals are not counted as book titles;

Instructors’.2 Published within the last 5 years or publications thatremain their validity;.3 The number of volumes is calculated at a ratio of 1
volume per 15 students enrolled in the course;.4 Maritime international laws, conventions, protocols andrelevant publications;Page 17 of 21

.3 Periodical Collection:.1 Newspapers;.2 On-line subscriptions to Journals may be credited (1international and 2 local);.3 Magazines;.4 Bulletins;.5 Reviews.
.2

Library SpaceThe library space should accommodate at least five percent (5%) of the total
enrolment at any given time.
.3

Networking

Libraries shall participate in inter-institutional activities and cooperative
programs whereby resource sharing is encouraged.

5.3.6 Laboratory and Physical Facilities.1.2Technical Support Personnel.1

Laboratory safety is the responsibility of the institution. As such,the institution shall be responsible for keeping its laboratories
properly used and maintained and free from dangers andhazards which may cause accidents or disease. The following
must be observed:.2

All laboratory activities shall be properly and adequately
supervised by a faculty member; students shall not be allowed
to work inside the laboratories unsupervised; and.3

Each department with laboratory/ies shall have full-time
technical support personnel to maintain laboratory facilities andassist in the conduct of laboratory exercises.

Specialized Laboratory Requirements.1

Laboratory rooms shall allow space appropriate to the size ofthe equipment and the number of students. It should be wellventilated and well-lighted, contain the specific laboratory
equipment and, where appropriate, adequate water supply isprovided. The following laboratory rooms shall be madeavailable:.2

For ESLPMD:.1 Physics;
Page 18 of 21

.2 Chemistry;.3 Computer;.4 Basic training (if provided by the MHEI);.5 Chart plotting;.6 Bridge simulator (as per specs); and.7 Seamanship room.
.3.3

For ESLPME:.1 Physics;.2 Chemistry;.3 Computer;.4 Basic training (if provided by the MHEI).5 Engine Simulator Room or laboratory area/s of the following:.1 marine engine.2 refrigeration.3 electrical/electronics equipment.4 auxiliary machinery.5 basic instrumentation and control.6 Machine shop
.7 SeamanshipLaboratory Equipment.1

All laboratory equipment except on Basic Training shall beowned by the institution and located within the institutional site.
There shall be sufficient number of equipment, machinery,
apparatus, supplies, tools and other materials, accessories andconsumables as contained in Annex “C” for ESLPMD and
Annex “D” of this Circular for the ESLPME.

.2―Sufficient and appropriate‖ means that the number of suchteaching aids and equipment shall be proportionate andadequate to the number of students enrolled in a particularsubject so as to ensure their sufficient exposure to theequipment and attainment of the required competence level.

.3

The institution shall provide the necessary audiovisual room andfacilities with appropriate equipment in support of the teachinglearning process such as video/overhead/slide projector, soundsystem, LCD projectors, screens, and others.

6.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

6.1

Quality Standard System. All Maritime Higher Education Institutions shallcomply with the minimum standards and guidelines governing a Quality
Standards System pursuant to Regulation I/8, Section A-I/8 and B-I/8 of the1978 STCW Convention, as amended.
Page 19 of 21

6.2

Admission and Retention. MHEIs shall adhere to the following admission
and retention criteria:.1.2Student general admission requirements:.1

High School graduate; and.2

Department of Health (DOH) medical examination applicable for
Ratings.

Student general retention requirements:.1

7.

Classroom and laboratory assessments of students shall besatisfied for promotion to the next level.

PENALTY CLAUSE

Any violation of the provisions of this Circular or of the requirements herein provided
shall be dealt with accordingly under the existing applicable laws, rules andregulations of CHED and the STCW Administration.

8.

REPEALING CLAUSE

Any provision of existing MARINA Circulars, rules and regulations and all otherissuances of other concerned government agencies which are contrary to or
inconsistent with this Circular shall be deemed repealed and/or superseded
accordingly.

9.

IMPLEMENTATION

9.1
The provisions of this Circular shall be implemented under the supervision of
the Commission on Higher Education until March 31, 2015, through the guidance of
the Administration.
9.2
Until such date, MHEIs may choose to phase out their BSMT or BSMarE
program and apply for the ESLP, and signify such intention to CHED.
9.3
From April 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015, ESLP will be jointly administeredand supervised by MARINA and CHED. During this period, there shall be no more
option for any MHEI to convert the BSMT or BSMarE to ESLP.
9.4

From October 1, 2015 onwards, the ESLP shall be administered by MARINA.

10.

EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE

This Circular shall take effect immediately after its publication in a newspaper ofgeneral circulation.
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