Examination into moral and technical qualifications of applicants.
Section 6
SECTION. 6. Examination into moral and technical qualifications of applicants.—Except as otherwise specifically provided, an applicant for certificate shall be required to undergo a technical examination, such examination to be restricted only to applicants haying served the time required to obtain the certificate for which they are to be examined. To obtain a certificate, he must show a proficiency in the subjects upon which he is examined and shall answer correctly at least seventy per cent of the questions propounded to him. It shall be the duty of the board of marine examiners to make thorough inquiry into the character of the applicant and to consider the evidence he presents in support of his application and such other relevant evidence as the board shall deem proper or desirable. In this connection the board may consider the statement, written or oral, of any person cognizant of the qualifications of the applicant and may, in its discretion, require the production of ships' journals and log books for inspection. (a) Watch officers.—The board in examining an applicant for a certificate as watch officer shall inquire into his knowledge of seamanship and navigation in its various branches, his capacity and skill in lading and unlading cargo, and in handling and storing freight under all conditions, and more especially his knowledge of the duties of the particular position which he seeks to fill and his special qualifications for such position. (b) Engineer.—The board in examining an applicant for a certificate as engineer shall inquire into his knowledge of the operation of steam machinery and especially of engines and boilers, also as to his practical experience, character and habits, and the board may, in its discretion, make such practical tests and examinations of the applicant as it may deem necessary to demonstrate his fitness or unfitness for the position which he seeks. (c) The holder of a license as master, mate, or engineer under the laws of the United States shall be entitled to obtain a license of the same grade in the Philippine coastwise service without being subject to these requirements other than the physical examination; but if he desires to secure the certificate mentioned in section twelve of this Act, he shall be required to take the necessary examination.