The Integrated Maritime Practical Assessment Center and Training Solution (IMPACT) opened its virtual maritime practical simulation program to assess seafarers.
The simulator will provide actual navigation, automation and dynamic positioning systems built to test seafarer’s expertise.
IMPACT chief executive officer Ephrem Dela Cerna Jr. said IMPACT is the first and largest maritime assessment center in the Visayas and Mindanao.
He said virtual maritime assessment started in Manila in 2000. Seafarers who wish to be assessed and rated will have to travel to Manila and spend around P30,000.
But in IMPACT, they are aiming to reduce Manila’s price by 20 percent.
“Seafarers are required to undergo an assessment to test their knowledge and to upgrade their rank,” said IMPACT chief operating officer George Neil Paraoan.
The assessment will only take four hours to determine the seafarer’s competence.
Each applicant must undergo navigation, cargo handling and stowage, controlling of operation of the ship and care for persons on board.
Currently, IMPACT is still complying with Marina’s accreditation requirements before they can fully operate.
Paraoan said that by early November IMPACT will accept screenings and 50 percent of their total earnings will be spent on research and development for the improvement of their facility.