The Seafarer's Upgrading Program (SUP) is another scholarship program offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for Filipino seafarers who wants to upgrade their skills and develop the expertise of Filipino seafarers so they can compete with the technological advancements and international maritime standards.

The OWWA aims to provide the seafarer members a job-related training in priority maritime courses identified by the Maritime Training Council.

The OWWA gives financial assistance ranging from a minimum of P 1,200.00 to a maximum of P 7,500.00 for beneficiaries. These amounts are inclusive of meal and transportation allowances in the case of trainees referred to the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP).

Who can avail the scholarship program

Filipino seafarers who are active OWWA members may avail of the program. Beneficiaries may subsequently avail of the SUP after payment of three (3) additional membership contributions and if training is availed of within the prescribed period.

What are the requirements

All Filipino seafarers who are OWWA members are entitled to avail of the program once every three (3) contributions. Availment may be assured upon first (1st) payment.

Documents required are:

1.      Accomplished application form

2.      Seamen's Identification and Record Book (SRIB)

3.      Poof of OWWA Membership (OR Of contribution)

4.      1"x1" photo (2 copies)

5.      Latest residence certificate 

To avail of the OWWA scholarship, please bring the requirements mentioned above at the nearest OWWA office. For more information please visit the OWWA website at www.owwa.gov.ph 

Source: OWWA