How To Avail OWWA Sup Seafarers Upgrading Program
The Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP) is a unique scholarship program offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to support Filipino seafarers who are currently working, returning from work, or venturing into the field for the first time. The program aims to enhance their expertise and competence in accordance with global maritime standards.how-to-avail-owwa-sup-seafarers-upgrading-program
Through SUP, eligible participants who are active OWWA members can receive financial assistance of up to PhP 7,500 for each training course provided by accredited institutions such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), or other training centers endorsed by OWWA. The program aims to equip seafarers with the necessary skills and knowledge in various technical aspects and specialties relevant to the maritime industry.
Do note that this SUP is a free program offered by OWWA and not a loan, so whether you are an active, returning or a first-time seafarer, be sure to make the most of your preparation by availing of this program.
Overview
More than a quarter of the global seafarer population consists of Filipino seafarers, with over 450,000 individuals contributing to the Philippine economy in 2019. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, this number has been greatly reduced to approximately 54%, resulting in more than 230,000 Filipino seafarers being forced to return home with minimal resources.
After two years, there is still hope for many seafarers to return to their maritime careers. Fortunately, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program, designed to assist them in enhancing their skills and competencies before venturing back to sea.
If you are a returning or first-time Filipino seafarer who has been out of touch with the industry for a while, or if you have been away from the sea and are considering reentering, this program is tailored to meet your needs.
Benefits
Participants who meet the eligibility criteria for the program are eligible to receive financial support ranging from PhP 1,200 to PhP 7,500 for each enrolled training course. It’s important to note that any additional expenses will be the responsibility of the applicant. However, in the case of applicants who have been referred to the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP), the grant covers meal and transportation allowances in addition to the training assistance.
Qualifications
In order to qualify for the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP), candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a Filipino citizen.
- Must be a registered member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) at the time of application.
- First-time applicants are required to have made a single membership contribution during the application process.
- Subsequent applications are accepted only after a minimum of three (3) verified membership contributions. In such cases, applications must be submitted within ninety (90) days of the most recent arrival in the Philippines, whether it is a vacation or the end of a contract period.
Requirements
Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements must gather the following documents when applying:
- Completed Application Form
- Official receipt as proof of OWWA membership contribution or any documentation indicating active OWWA membership
- Two recent and identical 2×2 ID photos
- Seaman’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and/or Original Passport
- Latest proof of billing or residence
How to Process OWWA SUP Scholarship for Seafarers
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed with the application process in the following steps:
- Visit the designated OWWA Regional or Satellite Office to obtain an application form.
- Complete the application form, provide all the required information, and attach all the required documentary evidence.
- Submit your application to the OWWA office.
- Await communication from an authorized OWWA representative who will verify and confirm your application.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a Notice of Award (NOA). It is important to claim the NOA within 45 days and present it to the training center where you plan to enroll. This will confirm your eligibility for the free training program.
General Guidelines
The processing time for SUP applications is two (2) days for residents of the National Capital Region (NCR) and seven (7) days for non-NCR residents, provided that all the required documents are complete. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Applicants must fulfill and successfully complete all the requirements of the chosen training program in order for the training fee to be waived.
It’s important to note that the SUP grant only covers expenses up to PhP 7,500 per training course. Any additional costs associated with the selected training course will be the responsibility of the applicant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Please find below some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide you with a better understanding of the OWWA SUP scholarship for seafarers:
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Is the SUP available for only active seafarers?
The SUP program provides advantages to Filipino seafarers who are active, returning, or joining the industry for the first time. Even if you are a first-time seafarer, you can still participate in this program if you have an active OWWA membership status when you apply.
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Where can I enroll should I apply for SUP?
Individuals who are granted the SUP program can register for any training course accredited by MARINA, TESDA, or an OWWA-accredited training center.
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What courses can I enroll in for OWWA SUP?
The SUP program includes a wide range of training courses that comply with international maritime standards. These courses cover various areas such as in-deck, engine, and specialized training.
In-deck courses include:
- Deck Watchkeeping (DWK)
- Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)
- General Operator’s Course for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GOC for GMDSS)
- Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting & ARPA Application (RNRPUA)
- Radar Simulator Course
- Radio Electronics Officer’s Course (REOC)
- Ship Simulator Bridge Teamwork (SSBT)
- Trim and Stability
Engine courses include:
- Auxiliary System
- Control Engineering
- Engine Room Simulator Course
- Engine Watchkeeping (EWK)
- Lathe Machine Course
- Marine Diesel Engineering
- Shipboard Welding and Lathe Machine
Specialized courses include:
Cargo Handling and Care of Cargo
- Advanced Training in Fire Fighting (ATFF)
- Advanced Training in Oil Tanker (ATOT)
- Advanced Training in Chemical Tanker (ATCT)
- Advanced Training in Liquified Gas Tanker (ATLGT)
- Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations
- Basic Training for Liquified Gas Tanker Cargo Operation
- Crisis Management
- Crowd Management
- Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Course
- Marine Pollution Consolidated (MARPOL I-VI)
- Medical Care (MECA)
- Medical Emergency First Aid (MEFA)
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (PSCRB)
- Shore-based Fire fighting
- Basic Baking
- Basic Culinary
- Catering Management – Chief Cook Course
- Basic Food Service Management
- Galley and Provision Management
- Housekeeping Management (Steward Course)
- Advanced Messman Course
- International Cooking
- Specialty Cuisine
- What courses are available for OWWA SUP enrollment? The SUP covers a wide range of training courses in the areas of deck, engine, and specialized skills that comply with international maritime standards.
Deck courses:
- Cargo Handling and Care of Cargo
- Deck Watchkeeping (DWK)
- Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)
- General Operator’s Course for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GOC for GMDSS)
- Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting & ARPA Application (RNRPUA)
- Radar Simulator Course
- Radio Electronics Officer’s Course (REOC)
- Ship Simulator Bridge Teamwork (SSBT)
- Trim and Stability
Engine courses:
- Auxiliary System
- Control Engineering
- Engine Room Simulator Course
- Engine Watchkeeping (EWK)
- Lathe Machine Course
- Marine Diesel Engineering
- Shipboard Welding and Lathe Machine
Specialized courses:
- Advanced Training in Fire Fighting (ATFF)
- Advanced Training in Oil Tanker (ATOT)
- Advanced Training in Chemical Tanker (ATCT)
- Advanced training in Liquefied Gas Tanker (ATLGT)
- Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations
- Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operation
- Crisis Management
- Crowd Management
- Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Course
- Marine Pollution Consolidated (MARPOL I-VI)
- Medical Care (MECA)
- Medical Emergency First Aid (MEFA)
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (PSCRB)
- Shore-based Firefighting
- Basic Baking
- Basic Culinary
- Catering Management – Chief Cook Course
- Basic Food Service Management
- Galley and Provision Management
- Housekeeping Management (Steward Course)
- Advanced Messman Course
- International Cooking
- Specialty Cuisine
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How often can I apply for the SUP?
There is no restriction on the number of times you can apply for the program. However, to accommodate new applicants, subsequent applications are permitted every 6 years or after making three (3) recorded membership contributions.
Summary
The Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP) presents a valuable chance for Filipino seafarers to enhance their skills and knowledge, paving the way for a rewarding life and career at sea. With its numerous benefits, there is every reason to seize this opportunity. Equipped with the support of OWWA, Filipino seafarers can confidently navigate deep waters and distant seas, knowing they are well-prepared and empowered. how to avail OWWA sup seafarers upgrading program
The SUP holds immense advantages for Filipino seafarers aiming to acquire credentials and qualifications that will expand their opportunities and marketability in the future. Even for those who plan to utilize their skills within the Philippines, this program offers a pathway to explore international career options.
For further details on the SUP and other OWWA programs, please visit the official website at www.owwa.gov.ph or the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OWWAofficial. To stay updated on their latest projects and releases, you can also download the OWWA Mobile App from Google Play or the App Store.
