MARINA takes over key maritime education functions under CHED transition plan

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has formally assumed several regulatory and student-related functions from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as part of the government’s MARINA–CHED Transition Plan.

The transition plan is aimed at streamlining maritime education governance in line with Republic Act No. 12021, or the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.

Under the transition, MARINA began taking responsibility on January 1, 2026, for the processing and issuance of Certification, Authentication, and Verification (CAV) documents for maritime students and graduates. The agency said guidelines for online CAV applications will be released soon.

While MARINA has taken over selected regulatory functions, CHED will continue granting scholarships for maritime students, ensuring that financial assistance programs remain uninterrupted during the transition.

For Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs), MARINA has also assumed responsibility for issuing Special Orders (SO) for graduation, with applications now coursed through each institution’s MHEI Management Information System for Monitoring and Oversight (MISMOs) account.

MARINA is likewise handling the processing of permits to operate maritime programs.

However, a moratorium on the opening of new Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE) programs remain in effect. Only applications for third-year permits will be processed during the moratorium period.

The agency has also taken over the processing of applications for program recognition, although MARINA noted that a moratorium is likewise in place, with only one MHEI expected to apply for government recognition.

Beginning this year, MARINA will implement a two-year monitoring cycle for maritime higher education institutions, with the option to request CHED’s participation in monitoring activities to ensure compliance with academic and training standards.

Meanwhile, the administration of the National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test (NaMMAT) will remain with CHED for Academic Year 2025–2026. MARINA is set to assume full responsibility for conducting the exam starting Academic Year 2026–2027.

MARINA will also conduct verification of completed Onboard Training (OBT) requirements submitted by students, based on the validation, assessment, and approval processes undertaken by MHEIs.

The transition plan is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen oversight, accountability, and quality assurance in maritime education, while aligning academic training more closely with industry and international standards for Filipino seafarers. — Sherylin Untalan/BAP, GMA Integrated News