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Q: Who are experienced ratings?
A: Experienced ratings are those who have had at least one year of sea experience associated with watchkeeping functions under the direction of the master, the officer in charge of a watch or a qualified rating within the period February 1992 to February 1997.
Ratings who have had more than one year of sea experience associated with watchkeeping functions are also qualified to apply for assessment and certification.
Q: Who are the new entrants?
A: New entrants are graduates of the TESDA-prescribed Ratings Course offered by Maritime Schools duly authorized by TESDA. The Ratings Course is a two (2) semesters program with a two (2) months on board practicum documented in a Training Record Book.
Q: Are dropouts from the bachelors programs qualified to apply for a Ratings Certificate?
A: Yes, they may apply for a Ratings Certificate provided they have completed all the subjects prescribed in the Ratings Course, including the two (2) months on board practicum. If they have had at least six (6) months of sea experience, this may substitute for the two (2) months practicum.
Q: If a licensed officer is assigned to a ratings post, is he required to have a Ratings Certificate?
A: No, the licensed officer need not secure a Ratings Certificate if his license is related to the ratings position.
Q: What categories of deck ratings are required to be certificated under the STCW Convention?
A: Deck ratings forming part of a navigational watch, primarily ordinary seamen, able bodied seamen, and boatswain (bosun).
Q: What categories of engine ratings are required to be certificated under the STCW Convention?
A: Engine ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine room, primarily wipers, oilers/motormen, and fitters.
Q: Are personnel in the stewarding services like a mess man, steward, and cook required to be certificated under the STCW Convention?
A: No, but they may want to apply for a Certificate of Competency that will indicate their occupational qualifications to improve their chances of employment onboard ships as well as in land based jobs. Such certificates are sometimes required by specific Flag States, especially for cooks.
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