ILOILO CITY, Feb. 26 (PNA) — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) here has P8 million funds for the implementation of the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP) in Western Visayas this year.
Ron Lionel M. Bartolome, OWWA regional director, disclosed that there is a big demand for the program.
He said that last year, some 2,522 have availed of the program with the OWWA shelling out some P14 million. It could even reach up to 3,000 once all the pending payables are settled.
While the fund for this year is lower compared with last year, they could still request for additional fund when needed, Bartolome said.
A seafarer can avail of the program once for every three contributions. The cost of training assistance ranges from P1,200 to P7,500.
The program was designed to extend job-related skills training so as to upgrade the seafarers’ knowledge and skills and develop their expertise to become attuned to the international maritime standards.
Included in the program are courses on safety, deck, engine, marine pollution, medical and special/customized courses, among others. It does not cover management courses.
Those who are interested of the sponsorship training should submit their SUP application form, one copy of the first page of seaman’s book, photocopy of three latest embarkation and disembarkation, date of arrival and one piece 1×1 colored ID picture to the OWWA office. (PNA)