Our Blog
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The New POEA Eregistration Version 2 – Update for OFWs & Seafarers
Dubbed eRegistration Version 2, POEA recently made a soft launch of their newest online platform for overseas workers. It replaces the old (well, not really) e-registration system we’re using. One of my readers commented on my previous “e-Registration how-to” article about a new tool on their website. I immediately checked it out and verified the…
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🔥 Vetting Inspection Day & Our Swimming Pool Caught Fire
While berthed port side alongside in Amsterdam, Netherlands, our product/chemical tanker was discharging gasoline– one of the most flammable cargoes in the maritime industry. At around 14:00H, an engine crew member rushed through the alleyways shouting incomprehensibly about a fire aft. Seconds later, our neighboring vessel’s crew waved and pointed toward our stern, confirming an…
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How to Recover Your MARINA MISMO Account- Forgot Password, Email Address, & SRN Number
If you’re looking for solutions on how to recover your MARINA MISMO account, you’ve come to the right place! I had a friend who forgot his whole account information while on board. He was planning to re-validate his Certificates of Proficiency (COPs) and decided to prepare the requirements early. He lost his email address. Passwords…
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Autonomous Ships Ready to Sail and May Soon Replace Seafarers
Major players in the maritime industry are developing autonomous ships. Because of the exponential growth of today’s technology, these vessels will sail in the not-too-distant future. We already have autonomous cars and remote-controlled planes. The shipping industry will soon be disrupted. We’ve come a long way from wooden ships to what we have today. The…
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List of Cruise Ship Manning Agencies in the Philippines
As the demand for cruise ship jobs increases, so do scam companies acting as manning agents. Fortunately, this gimmick has come to their attention. Cruise companies worldwide tag well-known agencies in our country as their official hiring partners. I did research about them through various online sources and presented to you the best information I…
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🇵🇭 Filipino Seafarers in Crisis: Labor Competition and the Future of Maritime Jobs
In 2009, I began my life at sea like many Filipinos- seeking better income, adventure, and stability. For decades, we’ve been the world’s preferred crew, valued for skill, discipline, and English proficiency. But global shipping is changing. New labor markets and emerging technologies, like autonomous vessels, are threatening our position. Here’s what’s driving this shift…
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Bonus & Extra Income Opportunities for Seafarers On Board
Aside from the regular salary we receive every month, some ships provide extra income opportunities for their crew. People are motivated by money and these bonuses are a good way to boost their morale, especially during inspections like the vetting process. But not all companies have this kind of policy. Here, we will discuss some…
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List of MARINA Regional Offices and Satellite Branches 2024
Here is a list of MARINA Regional Offices and Satellite Branches where you can process your Seaman’s Book, Seafarer’s Identity Document (SID) and Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Knowing the nearest MARINA Office in your area provides a great advantage. You don’t have to face the inconvenience of joining the huge wave of seafarers in the…
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7 Different Ways Seafarers Send Extra Money to Their Families
For seafarers working far from home, sending extra money to support their families can be a challenge, especially when time is of the essence. Unlike land-based workers who have easy access to various international remittance services, merchant mariners often face delays, limited options, and high fees. Traditionally, maritime professionals have relied on four common methods…
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Learn From My Mistake: How I Failed My First US Visa Application
Seasoned seafarers know that having a C1/D US Visa is a huge plus for our employment. Most shipping agencies nowadays prefer to hire seafarers with Schengen Visa and US Visa. Both are very enticing to them, especially the latter one. However, it is not always glorious success in applying for a United States Visa. Even…