The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) is a short-term training initiative by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) designed to enhance the skills of seafarer OFW members. The program offers financial assistance of up to PHP 7,500 per training course at accredited maritime training centers. This initiative ensures Filipino seafarers meet International Maritime Organization (IMO) competency standards, helping them remain competitive in the global maritime industry.
Understanding how to apply for the SUP is important for qualified members who want to upgrade their skills and take full advantage of this OWWA scholarship program. This guide will walk you through the requirements, steps, and benefits of the Seafarers Upgrading Program to help you successfully apply.
Program Overview
The SUP is a short-term training initiative by the OWWA that provides financial assistance to seafarer OFW members. This OWWA scholarship program covers up to PHP 7,500 per course, enabling members to enroll in accredited maritime training centers to enhance their skills and meet IMO standards. The program is open to active OWWA members working as seafarers and operates through OWWA’s Regional Welfare Offices (RWO).
Through the SUP, OWWA members can gain access to advanced technical training that improves their competitiveness in the maritime industry. The program is classified as a Government-to-Citizen (G2C) transaction and is available Monday to Friday during regular office hours. Applicants must submit their requirements, including a completed application form, 2×2 ID photos, a Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) or passport, and their OWWA membership record, to their nearest RWO.
Benefits
The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) is an OWWA initiative that provides financial support for short-term maritime training to enhance the skills of Filipino seafarers. With up to PHP 7,500 in assistance, this program ensures that OWWA members meet international maritime competency standards, improving their career prospects and professional qualifications.
- Financial Assistance: The program provides up to PHP 7,500 per training course, reducing the cost of professional development for qualified seafarers.
- Skill Enhancement: SUP helps participants upgrade their technical skills through specialized training at accredited maritime institutions, ensuring they stay competitive in the global workforce.
- Compliance with International Standards: The program supports seafarers in meeting International Maritime Organization (IMO) competency requirements, boosting their qualifications for international employment.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: By upgrading their skills, seafarers can qualify for better job positions and expand their career opportunities in the maritime industry.
- Accessible Application Process: The program is easy to apply for, with clear steps and support available at OWWA Regional Welfare Offices nationwide.
- Support for OWWA Members: SUP is exclusively available to active OWWA members, offering unique benefits tailored to the needs of Filipino OFWs working in maritime professions.
- Improved Employability: With additional certifications and enhanced skills, participants improve their chances of securing higher-paying and more stable jobs abroad.
- Reduced Training Costs: The subsidy significantly lowers expenses for required maritime training, making it more affordable for OFWs to pursue professional development.
The SUP ensures Filipino seafarers remain globally competitive while maximizing the benefits of their OWWA membership.
Target Beneficiaries
The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) by OWWA offers financial assistance to enhance the skills and qualifications of Filipino seafarers. This program ensures that they remain competitive and compliant with international standards in the maritime industry.
- Active OWWA Members: Filipino seafarers who maintain an active OWWA membership are eligible to apply for the SUP.
- Seafarer OFWs: Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) working in the maritime industry can take advantage of this program to improve their professional skills.
- Applicants Seeking Training Support: Those who require financial assistance for short-term upgrading courses at accredited maritime training institutions can apply for the SUP.
- Maritime Workers Meeting IMO Standards: Seafarers aiming to meet the International Maritime Organization (IMO) competency standards benefit from this program to stay qualified in global shipping.
The OWWA SUP is a great opportunity for OWWA members to access professional development, improve their employability, and meet global maritime industry requirements.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Seafarers Upgrading Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- OWWA Membership: You must be an active member of OWWA at the time of application.
- Seafarer Status: Applicants must be Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) working as seafarers.
- Required Documents: All necessary requirements must be completed and submitted to the regional office.
Documentary Requirements
Below is the list of documents required to apply for the Seafarers Upgrading Program:
- Accomplished Application Form – Available at the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).
- Two (2) Colored 2×2 ID Photos – Provided by the OFW member.
- Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) or Original Passport – Obtainable from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
- OWWA Membership Record – Secured from the OWWA RWO.
Ensuring that all documents are prepared before starting the application process will help streamline your submission.
How to Apply for the SUP
Follow these steps to successfully apply for the SUP:
Step 1: Book an Appointment
Schedule your appointment online through the OWWA Appointment Scheduler App at https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph. Select the SUP option and confirm your appointment.
Step 2: Visit the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO)
On your appointment date, visit the nearest OWWA RWO and follow these steps:
- Get a Queuing Number
Upon arrival, obtain a queuing number or line up for the SUP application.
The assigned OWWA staff will ensure orderliness during the process.
- Submit Requirements for Verification
Present your ID or Passport and all other requirements at the Education and Training Unit.
If your membership is valid, submit the accomplished application form and supporting documents.
Step 3: Claim Your Notice of Award (NOA)
After the processing period, return to the OWWA RWO on the scheduled date to claim your NOA.
- Get a Priority Number
Upon arrival, secure a priority number and wait for your turn to claim the NOA.
- Claim the NOA
Proceed to the designated SUP counter to obtain your NOA.
Note:
- For applicants in the National Capital Region (NCR), the NOA can be claimed within 3 working days after submitting the completed requirements.
- For applicants in other regions, the process may take up to 7 working days to allow verification at the regional office.
Where to Get the Application Form
To apply for the OWWA Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP), you can secure the application form from the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). The form is part of the requirements needed to process your application for this OWWA scholarship. Ensure that you prepare all other required documents to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding the OWWA SUP:
1. What courses are covered by the program?
SUP funds short-term upgrading courses at accredited maritime training institutions. These courses focus on improving skills that meet IMO standards.
2. How long does the application process take?
Processing time varies depending on your location. In NCR, the NOA can be claimed within 3 working days, while applicants from other regions may need up to 7 working days.
3. Where can I apply for the SUP?
You can apply at the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Make sure to schedule an appointment online before visiting.
Video: 7500 Cash Assistance Program for Under the OWWA Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP)
For a step-by-step overview of the application process for the OWWA SUP, watch this short video guide from RICROD-PH. It explains the requirements, steps, and benefits of the program along with helpful tips for a smooth application.
Summary
The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) is an OWWA initiative designed to support Filipino seafarers through financial assistance for professional training. Eligible applicants can receive up to PHP 7,500 to fund short-term upgrading courses at accredited maritime institutions. This program is a great opportunity for seafarers to improve their skills, meet international competency standards, and enhance their career prospects. By staying updated with programs like the SUP, OWWA members can maximize the benefits of their membership.