Before embarking on their journey, every Filipino seafarer must undergo a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)—a vital step in ensuring they are fully prepared for the challenges of life at sea. At Unlad Ship Manning and Management Corp., we take PDOS beyond the standard requirements, equipping our crew not only with knowledge of their contracts and duties but also with the physical, mental, and financial preparedness needed for a smooth and successful deployment.
Why PDOS Matters
πΌ Understanding Rights & Responsibilities
- We ensure that every crew member fully understands their employment contract, salary breakdown, benefits, working conditions, and grievance mechanisms.
- Knowledge of DMW policies, employer expectations, and dispute resolution procedures helps them protect their rights.
π Cultural & Workplace Adaptation
- Seafarers work with multinational crews. PDOS provides cultural sensitivity training, professional etiquette guidance, and communication tips for better teamwork onboard.
π Safety, Security, and Emergency Preparedness
- While safety training is mandatory for seafarers, PDOS reinforces security measures, emergency contacts, and best practices for handling crises at sea.
π° Smart Financial Management & Future Planning
- Unlad places strong emphasis on financial literacy. We educate crew members on:
β Managing salaries wisely
β Avoiding scams and unnecessary expenses
β Planning for savings, investments, and long-term stability
β€οΈ Health: A Critical Factor in Deployment
- Medical clearance is one of the biggest bottlenecks in deployment. Many seafarers struggle with failing medical exams due to lifestyle-related illnesses.
- At Unlad, we remind them early:
β Take care of their diet, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
β Get regular checkups even before contract renewal.
β Avoid unhealthy habits that could delay or prevent deployment. - We stress that good health isn’t just for passing medical exams—it’s for long-term well-being and career sustainability.
π¬ “Muntik na akong hindi ma-deploy dahil sa high blood. Buti na lang pinaalalahanan kami ng Unlad sa PDOS na mag-ingat sa pagkain at magpa-check up. Ngayon, mas iniingatan ko na ang sarili ko.” – Chief Cook, 6 years with Unlad
Unlad’s PDOS: More Than Just a Seminar
At Unlad, PDOS isn’t just a lecture—it’s a conversation. We break down barriers, fostering an open environment where seafarers can ask questions, share concerns, and feel truly prepared for their journey.
β Engaging & Interactive Sessions – We don’t just talk at our seafarers; we encourage discussions, real-life scenarios, and problem-solving.
β Practical & Realistic Advice – Our facilitators, many with maritime experience, provide real insights into the realities of life onboard.
β Personalized Guidance – Crew members get one-on-one support to address their individual concerns before deployment.
And yes, we dance together. πΊπ
It may seem unusual, but it’s a way to break walls and erase hesitation. If we can laugh together on land, they’ll know they can always reach out to us when things get tough at sea.
Health, Preparedness, and Lifelong Support
PDOS is not just about preparing for the first day onboard—it’s about preparing for an entire career at sea. At Unlad, our role doesn’t end after deployment. We continue to check in, remind them to take care of themselves, and offer guidance whenever they need it.
π’ To our future seafarers: Take your health seriously, stay informed, and always be prepared.
π’ To our shipowner partners: You can trust that Unlad’s crew members are not only skilled and trained but also healthy, responsible, and financially wise.
At Unlad, we don’t just deploy seafarers—we prepare them for success in every aspect of their lives.
π’ Looking for a manning agency that genuinely cares for its crew? Unlad is here for you.
#UnladShipManning #PDOS #HealthIsWealth #ReadyToSail #StrongerTogether π’π
The Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) is a mandatory requirement set by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for all departing Filipino seafarers. It ensures that crew members are fully informed about their rights, responsibilities, and onboard life before deployment.
For more information, you may contact OWWA:
π Address: OWWA Center, 7th St. cor. F.B. Harrison, Pasay City, Philippines
π Hotline: 1348 (within the Philippines)
π§ Email: owwa_opcenter247@yahoo.com
π Website: www.owwa.gov.ph