STAY AT HOME is the battle cry of the Philippine government amidst sharp rise of COVID-19 in the country. There is a country-wide disruptions of movements, access to transportation and services.
Today, March 17, 2020 mark the start of the enhanced community quarantine of the entire Luzon island.
For our mates affected by this measure, let this be your complete guide on all MARINA related transactions.
Suspensions of MARINA transactions
Suspensions of services until further notice in MARINA Central Office and Regional Offices, Amosup Testing Center, SM Manila and PITX are in effect.
There is also suspension of all maritime training courses of training centers in Metro Manila.
Seafarers are to transact electronically via MISMO or SIDSRB platforms and are subject to online evaluation so as to avoid unnecessary travel.
In addition, those who are living outside the metro are advised to proceed to the nearest regional offices for their applications.
Make sure to check the travel guidelines of the regional office that you intend to visit. Bear in mind there are numerous restrictions on different parts of the country.
Furthermore, only Liason Officers can process applications at the Central Office.
Closures/Partial Operation of MARINA Offices
MARINA decentralize its operations to the MARINA Regional Offices through online means. However, kindly check the availability of the regional offices before going there.
Processing Centers in Metro Manila (SM Manila, SM Mall of Asia, POEA and PITX) are temporarily closed.
For full contact details of MARINA Regional Offices, visit this link. You can contact them via email or phone.
Extension and Deadlines
The following are subject to extension by the administrator:
Excerpts from MARINA Advisory 2020-15
What to do?
By far, the best thing to do is to stay at home. Restrictions on movement, access to services and transportation are in place. Do not resist this as this is for our own good.
Eventually, this too shall pass. But if we resist these lockdown guidelines, the longer we’ll endure this kind of disruptions.
Finally, wait for any updates on official media channels of the government.