Renewal of Safety Trainings for Seafarers at CREST Cebu

Renewal Safety Trainings at CREST Cebu

It’s been a while since my last entry — September 21, 2025, to be exact. I won’t say I’ve been too busy to write, but I’ve definitely been occupied with a lot of other things lately. So here I am, finally sharing what’s been keeping me busy these past weeks.

About two months ago, I completed my renewal trainings for several certificates required by MARINA for us seafarers. These certificates are valid for five years, and although I still had about six months left before mine expire, I decided to renew them ahead of time.

Why renew early?

Because once a certificate expires, you’ll need to take the full course again. Renewing before expiry lets you take the refresher course instead — fewer training days, fewer expenses, and more time you can spend with your family. It’s simply the smarter and safer choice.

Why I Chose CREST

I took my courses at CREST Maritime Assessment and Training Center (Cebu Reliable and Excellent Seafarerss Training Center). Among the many maritime training centers in the Philippines, CREST stood out for a few reasons:
• Responsive Communication: Their official Facebook page replies fast — even outside office hours. A dedicated staff member was always ready to answer my questions.
• Knowledgeable Instructors: I heard great things about their trainers, and everything proved true. They’re experienced, flexible, and genuinely know their craft. No regrets choosing CREST.

Courses I Took
• Refresher Course – SCRB (Survival Craft and Rescue Boat)
• Refresher Course – AFF (Advanced Fire Fighting)
• Refresher Course – BT (Basic Training)
• STPPDSPPS (Safety Training for Personnel Providing Direct Service to Passengers in Passenger Spaces)
• PSCMT (Passenger Ship Crowd Management Training) or Crowd Management
• PSCMHBT (Passenger Ship Crisis Management and Human Behavior Training) or Crisis Management

Where to Stay if You’re Training at CREST

If you’re coming from outside Cebu City, here’s a tip:
Most of the practical sessions are held in Carmen, particularly at CTU Carmen, so it’s more convenient to stay in Carmen than in Cebu City.

However, if you prefer Cebu City, CREST provides a daily shuttle bus. It leaves Cebu at 6 AM and departs from the training site in Carmen at 5 PM. Either way, getting to the training center won’t be a problem — just choose what works best for you.

Training Costs

Based on my comparison with other training centers in Cebu, prices are generally uniform. Rates are slightly higher than those in Manila, but considering the quality of service at CREST, I’d say they’re reasonable.

Here’s what I paid for each course (you can insert the exact amounts):
• Refresher Course – SCRB – Php 3,500.00
• Refresher Course – AFF –  Php 3,500.00
• Refresher Couse – BT – Php 4,000.00
• Crowd Management, Crisis Management and STPPDSPPS – Php 6,800.00 (Packaged)

Final Thoughts

Going through these renewal trainings reminded me of how much commitment this profession requires — not just at sea, but even while on shore. It takes time, effort, and a bit of sacrifice, but staying certified keeps us safe, employable, and ready for the next voyage. If you’re a fellow seafarer reading this, I hope this entry helps you plan ahead and avoid the hassle of last-minute renewals. Here’s to safer seas, smarter choices, and more time spent with the people who matter. Until the next update — stay steady, stay ready, and sail safe.