Marino World March-April 2016 Edition

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VOLUME XI NO. 2-B ISSN 1908-0972

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MARCH - APRIL 2016

MARINO WORLD

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MARINO WORLD

Cover Story

DUTERTE FACES MARITIME ANCHORS Education MPCF: DISCIPLINE AND LOYALTY

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Certification FUJIWARA HEADS CLASSNK

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Feature

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L4SS FIRST MEET

Governance

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OUR PARTYLISTS

US$8 €12 ¥200

VOLUME XI NO. 2 -A ISSN 1908-0972

PHP120

MARCH - APRIL 2016

Content

ABOUT THE COVER MARINO WORLD

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Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

The Mayor of Davao City has shown genuine concern on the maritime sector. Not much yet to share but certainly prepared to listen. The

cover is not a political endorsement.

It is a statement of support to one who supports.

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Editorial Consultant

Lyn Bacani

Creative Director

B. Cortes Lagac

Content Critique

Commo. Dante La Jimenez

Eva Tan

Jhon Henson Ong

Legal Counsel

Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.

News and Feature Writers Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors

Ms. Merle San Pedro RAdm. Adonis Donato Atty. Cristina Beltran

International Contributors

F R Chowdhury

Mark Millar

Special Projects Manager Gel Miranda

Account Executive Karen Mainar

Richard Teo

Visayas Correspondent Boy Ilano

Circulation Assistant Joana Marie Tud

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines marinoworldpublication@gmail.com

Tel. / Fax

(632) 521-3633

Mobile

(63) 906-491-2777

Published by Bacani & Associates Media Services Co. (BASMS) www.marinoworld.com.ph

Publisher’s Note

LEADERSHIP MATTERS The maritime sector has been aggressive in getting the attention of candidates in the upcoming elections, especially those running for national posts. The advocacy is quite logical and pragmatic, with business sense to boot.

For leadership matters; proper perspective and sufficient knowledge fuel the political will to reform and redress national priorities.

For one, include the maritime industry on the top slot of the national agenda.

The Movement for Maritime Philippines (MMP) has initiated, or perhaps brokered, the political gambit. On the theme Talakayang Eleksyon: Pagsulong ng Bayan, Maritima ang Kasagutan, MMP invited national wannabes (presidentiables, vice and senators) to present their platform of government, particularly on the maritime industry.

MMP even collated the signed endorsement of maritime associations and major stakeholders imploring political leaders to place the maritime industry on the priority agenda of the government, of the Administration. This was even published --full page --- in a leading national broadsheet, an act defining in its approach, in its unity and in its cost, all in pursuit of the country’s progress The Davao forum of MMP was followed in Manila by the Joint Manning Group (JMG) First Joint General Membership meeting, almost a call-to-arms, in a manner of speaking. For the big guns are with JMG, employers of over 300,000 Filipino merchant mariners who ply the world.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte is first to submit to both fora, platform and

priorities. Not as in-depth as the ideal, but with workable mechanics for serious reforms.

As of our press time, only Dutete is the presidentiable who appeared before MMP and JMG. Hopefully, the other four major presidential candidates will find time and means to connect to the maritime leadership to express views and commitment. It need not be in a dedicated forum, given their hectic schedules of realpolitics in various provinces and chartered cities. And power groups, target blocks.

A truly busy person shall find time to do the worthy tasks, to calibrate priorities in the scheme of things all aching for attention. And we expect them to consider the facts, viz: •

Shipping moves 90% of world’s goods; a fundamental industry that has long been neglected in the Philippines;

•

OFW remittances are 25% from seafarers, roughly US$5.375 billion in 2014;

•

In 2012, our shipbuilding is 5th, after China, Japan, Korea and Brazil; 4th in 2014;

•

Over 300,000 seafarers, the most crewing international merchant ships;

•

Archipelago of 7,107 islands, for domestic shipping creating jobs and business;

•

About 45,000 in shipbuilding/repair; seven Class A shipyards, 12 mediumsized and 99 for small ships per 2013 MARINA listing; and

•

So many allied businesses: manning agencies, maritime schools, training centers, review centers, chandling, port operations and more.

Indeed, the Philippines is the world’s second largest shipping nation, so much for commercial fishing, coral reefs and marine products, tourism on our beaches, white waters and surf, waterfalls and secret lagoons.

Even the apolitical are flexing political muscles. The maritime industry is now represented in the Lower House of Congress through the PartyList system. Angkla already has a Nominee with so much inroads even on its first term. Three others are on the campaign swing: Amor, Ang Marino and Clase, potentially adding 11 more Nominees for the maritime industry.

Those numbers are tough, pipe dreams. But Angkla has proven that even one Nominee, with smart leveraging, can influence the pitch and roll of politics for maritime goals.

Imagine if we can increase representation, more heads are better than one, as goes folk wisdom.

Yet, so many cooks spoil the broth. So we revert to our initial challenge: leadership.

Time is proving the maritime industry is jelling to effectively address its concerns. It has so much to say, but so little wind to --- at the moment.

But we are in the right charter, accepting common causes, unifying to pursue the goals. And we have the discernment how: leadership.

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Cover Story

Duterte with Rono and Francisco

AT JMG AND MMP FORA

DUTERTE FACES MARITIME ANCHORS

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte is first among presidential candidates to accept the invitation of the Joint Manning Group (JMG), for its First Joint General Membership Meeting held at Diamond Hotel, Manila, March 10th.

Duterte clasped hands with the main anchors of the country’s maritime industry: •

Marlon Rono, Filipino Association for Mariners’ Employment (FAME)

•

Eduardo Manase, Phil-Japan Manning Consultative Council (PJMCC)

•

Capt. Oscar Orbeta, Phil. Association of Manning Agencies and Shipmanagers (PAMAS)

•

Roy Alampay, Filipino Shipowners’ Association (FSA)

•

Capt. Jin Salvatierra, Jr., Intl.

Maritime Association of the Phil.

(INTERMAP)

More than 100 manning representatives attended.

JMG Vice Chair for External Affairs Erikson Marquez presented a brief on JMG and the country’s seafaring industry: JMG is an umbrella organization of five major ship maritime at manning

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associations, namely: FAME with 124 members; PJMCC with 70 members; PAMAS with 52 members; FSA with 19 members and INTERMAP with 11 members.

It coordinates with the Integrated Seafarers (ISP) for corporate social programs.

JMG supplies about 80% of Philippines seafarers deployment; in 2014, about 400,000 contracts processed representing close to 30% of the 1.2 million merchant seafarers of the world.

In 2015, the industry may remit US$6 billion in salaries, out of the estimated US$25 billion from both landbased and seabased sectors.

This industry with about 500,000 active Filipino seafarers onboard, almost all types of vessels is serviced by 70 maritime schools accredited by CHED and over 100 training centers accredited by MARINA. Spin-off businesses are travel agencies for seamen’s foreign travel and return; domestic travels for their training and documentation requirements, medical clinics for pre and post medical employment as well as other supplies like working uniforms and gears required.

Collectively, about five million people depend on the Philippines maritime industry which started in the early 1970s on private initiatives. It has grown as a

major contributor to jobs and economic growth through its non-capital dependent foreign exchange earnings.

Yet, maritime industry concerns, especially seafaring, have not been given enough attention and priority in the past, even up to today.

VChair Marquez notes JMG has many concerns on bureaucratic processes that hamper dispatch and deployment. There are serious concerns on unjust decisions by our judicial bodies. Badly needed legislations remain unacted in Congress; those passed lack consultation with the industry. What is good for landbased workers are not necessarily workable with job practices onboard ships.

PartyList Angkla with Nominee Jesulito Manalo managed to pass four bills signed into law benefiting the industry. But much remain to be done. And dramatically, immediately. Because of the crisis from current depressed shipping market. There could be industry meltdown after nurturing it in the past 40 years.

Angkla Second Nominee, Capt. Ronald Enrile, presented positive perspective prior to the arrival of the main guest, Mayor Duterte.

Introduction.

Senator Allan Peter Cayetano was introduced as “the most active and vocal

senator of the land inspired by his father who was an equally outstanding senator in his time.”

Vice-presidentiable Cayetano declares, “If there’s one industry that can talk directly to the leaders of our country… to either shape up or ship out” it is the maritime sector.

The economy will stand still without the maritime industry, he claims.

Cayetano claims, “If we want to see a real Philippine boom, not a Metro Manila boom, not a top 40 companies boom in the Philippines, the person can do that is in this room” (implying Duterte).

FAME Pres Rono intro for Duterte held up some breath: labeled The Punisher by Time magazine, leader of the Davao Death Squad. A sympathizer of the New People’s Army, and later a dictator.

But Rono stressed Davao City has voted for Duterte since 1988 (Mayor, Congressman, Vice-Mayor, then Mayor again). He is a big daddy, a protector, a security blanket of the city. The man who turned the former killing field of the communists assassins into one of the safest city in the world.

Duterte has the reputation as a man who gets things done, implementing a very strict no smoking ban in public areas, a 30 km speed limit in six major streets, the one o’clock am liquor ban and no fireworks ordinance.

The man.

He was born in Maasin, Southern Leyte, March 28, 1945 to Vicente Duterte and Solidad Roa. They moved to Davao City, his father becoming the last governor of undivided Davao province. “Digong” finished high school from a rural school, exiled by his father after his expulsion from Ateneo de Davao. He took up Law in San Beda College, passed the bar (1972) and served as fiscal in Davao City (1986).

Given standing ovation, he humbly gestured for them to be seated. Even in Davao City, he discourages people from standing for him, “just a government worker working for you.”

In-between the eyes.

Duterte was his usual self, frank and direct; speaking to persons, not delivering speech to people. He is flabbergasted, everything

Digong Duterte and Supremo Manese

not really working right. He has been mayor for 22 years, a congressman. “I really know what’s happening until now.”

Duterte: “It’s corruption, crime and drugs and the failure of the government to deliver.” He believes Government is really oppressing the people. Left and right, you have to shell out just to get a document that you want for your profession or your business.”

He puts simply what is philosophical and spiritual: “When you are here in this planet and you do not sense any purpose… there is no God. We are here because we have a purpose and we should know that … because after all destiny for everybody…

When you die, get married… And even being a president, it’s all destiny.

His sense of humor pervades even on serious topics. A trait that charms people but places him in hot water with ultra-strict critics. He is quick to apologize but just as quick to repeat.

Travails.

Duterte notes mulcting starts at Immigration, at the airport, both going and returning. Customs hold the seafarers, asked for grease money on set-up charges.

And their baggage are picked, loosing the pasalubong for loved ones eagerly waiting at home.

Sailors are worried on the safety of their children, their family. Some are raped, knifed, victims of addicts high on illegal drugs. “(W)e are still in the feudal stage and patronage,” says Duterte.

He critized Government for refusing to increase benefits under the Social Security System (SSS) but pays millions to consultants in various levels of the bureaucracy.

Unexpectedly, he goes back stage to kiss the Pilipino flag. And then, waxes historical: He says we belong to different tribes of different cultures. Imperialism shadowed over our land. In 1521, Magellan claimed ownership of our land using the Cross and the sword against Islam already established in Mindanao. Americans came later, stayed for almost a century.

While Mindanao gives 54% of export earnings, Duterte laments it receives a puny share. The larger chunks are for the imperialists of the budget in Manila. “Huge sums unspecified, not itemized,” Duterte snides.

And he switches folksy, removes the sampaguita lei triggering chuckles, some clapping. In breezy tone, he says do not be MARINO WORLD

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DUTERTE FACES MARITIME ANCHORS

The Mayor with JMG key officers angry with him since he still remembers a similar one on a dead person. “Ribbon lang, okay na,” Duterte says impishly.

IMEC Rep. Michael Estaniel: “It’s good to hear his side. It would have been nice to see the others.”

Boldly, he forwards a thesis: Visayans agree to be a part of one nation expecting equality on everything. “(T)here has to be equality and there has to be equal distribution of the wealth of the nation and whoever sits in government and the Congress that will govern us we expected (the government to be upright).”

FAME Pres. Rono: “Well, still very early… more on criminality naka focus sya, peace and order which is, I think, in any country, in a developing country. That is very vital kasi if you have peace and order, economy can prosper.”

Reactions.

JMG Chair Manese: “That was very candid talk.”

KGJS Pres. Malvar Castellon “… he presented himself as a man of action, nononsense, things will be faster without all the excess baggage that goes along with the bureaucracy.”

INTERMAP Pres. Salvatierra: “Well, I can see their sincerity in changing the government. Of course, we cannot expect that they will have a full grasp of our maritime concerns and issues but we agree with them that the main problem in this country is corruption…”

NYK-Fil Pres. Josephine Francisco: “Nothing, I am a very apolitical person, no comment. We are just honored that he’s here, that’s it.”

Former JMG Chair Emmanuel Regio: “I think with political will, he can do it. Ang danger… is the way he will execute… respect over the law (and)… (For us to progress we need a) strong president, we need it… (But his) analysis sa maritime, (he was not thoroughly) briefed.”

Platform.

Earlier, Duterte was guest speaker at the Movement for Maritime Phil (MMP) forum dubbed as: Talakayang Eleksyon: Pagsulong ng Bayan, Maritima ang Kasagutan held at Davao Merchant Marine Academy (DMMA) College of Southern Philippines, January 27th.

be affordable and available to the masses.

The Mayor notes at present, Manila to Cebu to Cagayan or vice versa is the only priority route of shipping companies, by-passing all other destinations. Mayor Digong reminded everyone that years back, people can travel from one province to another in a cheaper fare through passenger vessels by which you can comfortably bring chickens and bigger baggage for pasalubong.

He advocates shipbuilding not only in Luzon but also in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Duterte plans to buy or rent about five moored or lay-up ships as training ships for cadets. If not in use by the shipowners, he will request them to donate or lease out the vessels.

He will subsidize schools, allowing them to set procedures and examinations. He just implores that standards be not too stiff for the “ordinary” minds. He will also help other courses (i.e. education, seafarers, maritime) and would not impose grades like 85 or 80. 78 may be acceptable.

He accepted Q&A talk with panelists Ms. Merle Jimenez-San Pedro (PAMTCI), Ms. Arlene-Abuid Paderanga (PAMI), Dr. Elizabeth Salabas (PCGA), Capt. Rogelio Paramio (Marino PartyList) and Mr. Leo Santiago, (MJAP).

He will stop red tape with a one-stop shop for all needs of seafarers. Maximum three days for documents, clearances or permits reducing signatures to 5 or 7 within 30 days. One should not follow-up, just get a card and give the agency the problem of processing. Mulcting is also be avoided if one is not seen; every province or city shall have processing centers.

OSM Pres. Adonis Donato: “He’s a natural man; at least, he means what he say. Wala siyang hypocrisy. He is the last hope.”

Duterte will replicate Biyayang Dagat of Marcos martial years being best for fisher folks. After EDSA I, it was stopped small fisherfolk can no longer take out loans. The market for fish products constricted without government assistance.

Duterte signed the Commitment prepared

by MMP, “(T)he development of a national maritime agenda will form part of my government platform to achieve an inclusive economic progress under my leadership.”

Vega Pres. Vicente Fedelicio: “Actually, we’ll vote for them. They are the only candidates for President and VP with really concrete platform.”

He will build more infras to handle imports, exports and decongestion, more ports to load, deliver products the cheapest, the fastest and the safest means. Goods will

MMP gave Duterte a replica of a vintage ship, a reminder of a glorious heritage and a message on the atrophied present.

PAMAS Pres. Orbeta: “Very relieving, (if) he can do the change.” For Orbeta, welcome since people are fed-up. The presentation is aggressive that is why one wonders why survey ratings go higher in spite of the negatives.

Odfjell Pres. Remigio Zamora rates Duterte as a real person, very direct without hypocrisy. One trusts such a person because you know he is not fooling you.

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Education

Pres Dante La Jimenez

MPCF: DISCIPLINE AND LOYALTY True, academic excellence is a must. But discipline and loyalty complete the package --- so demand shipowners and employers. It is in this pragmatics that Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) mold the cadets.

The unbending mix is the secret --and the key --- why MPCF continue to get the trust of shipowners and partner companies. Mariners are known for discipline and loyalty, for graduates with secured knowledge, competency and skills to be a worldclass seafarer.

April 7th at the 30th Commencement and Ring Hop ceremonies, MPCFLegazpi President Dante La. Jimenez assures parents and guardians before the cadets leave the portal of MPCF, they are equipped with knowledge on their various courses ... skills that they acquired from training and at the same time the attitude the Mariners is noted for: discipline and loyalty.

I hope and pray that the graduating class this year will always bear in mind that when you are accepted by your employer or by your companies, you will be loyal to them, grow with 10

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them and make sure you will succeed in your respective professions.

We have graduated thousands of successful Marineros and Marineras.

And precisely why some of you are relatives or do have brothers and sisters who have graduated from this school because they have succeeded in their professions.

In our institution, we make sure they are away from vices, illegal drugs and alcohol. We’re always consistent in our reminder that health is wealth.”

Batch Di-Malupig Ma. Kaitlin Joy Villacorta, in her valedictory address confirms, “It’s attitude… I being a Cum Laude doesn’t guarantee me a brighter future than those who are not.

These medals and awards are not assurances that tomorrow I will not worry about getting hired. Attitude will, Intelligence isn’t seen through grades. It can be seen on how we calm the storm and manage to keep everything in place with the least damage as possible.”

Around 800 graduated from the academic load, with some to complete a year of shipboard requirement for a diploma in BSMarE and BSMT. Other degrees are in Hospitality Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management and Customs Administration.

Earlier in the morning, Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal, cut the ceremonial ribbon to inaugurate the fourth floor rooms for the Senior High School at the Engr. Jimenez building, another facility at the MPCF-Legazpi campus.

Friendship.

Guest speaker on the occasion is Capt. Peter Grunau, Training specialist of United Marine Training Center, Marlow NavigationPhilippines, He is joined by his wife and daughter. They dined with the Jimenez family with trustees of the MPCF Board.

Cuisine was by Chef Norjun Barro, now with Marlow Navigation. He is an MPCF alumnus, just like Dan Aldrich Tolentino who is Marlow Training Program Manager.

Capt. Peter Grunau with Marlow wards

“Thank you very much for your hospitality...Legazpi is for sure one of our main colleges where we are selecting cadets and we hope to continue... We are very very satisfied… I hope that we have glorious future together and that we have many many more graduates and celebrations till the next years,” beams Granau.

Canaman.

At MPCF –Canaman on April 5th, Atty. Iris Baguilat was the guest speaker. Baguilat is president of Dohle Seafront Crewing (Manila).

Earlier on April 4th at the Ring Hop, the speaker was C/E Alfredo Haboc, Deputy Administrator for Regional Concerns of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

At the Recognition Rites for honor students, the speaker was Capt.

Leodan Nagrampa, CEO/General Manager, TSAKOS MaritimePhilippines.

Industry Partners (sponsoring and hiring cadets) who attended are from the Development Bank of the Phil, Misuga Kaiun, Maine MarinePhilippines, Manila Ocean Crew, Marlow Navigation-Phil, Veritas Maritime, Taiyo Nippon Kisen, Phoenix Maritime, Crewcare, Epic Gas Crewing and New Filipino

Maritime Agencies.

Business Administration courses.

756 graduated from Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Customs Administration, Bridging Program for BS Mechanical Engineering and BS Electrical Engineering to BS Marine Engineering, Cruise Ship Management, and Seaman’s Culinary Course.

Lugue announced the world’s largest cruising outfit, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (RCCL), is hiring a total of 30,000 Filipino crew members over the next five years. This is triple of the current 11,000 as it expands the fleet and routes in Asia.

Naga.

PTC is the crewing agent for RCCL and he encouraged graduates to apply, citing benefits and job qualifications.

MPCF – Naga campus held commencement exercises earlier on March 31st Main speaker was C/E Peter Lugue of Phil Transmarine Carriers (PTC). More than 250 graduated from Hotel Hospitality Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Tourism, Customs Administration, Communication and

With the year’s harvest of prime cadets drilled in knowledge and honed in competency, MPCF continues its primacy in maritime education and training in the Bicol Region. MPCF is an icon in the national level; for the institution is dedicated to compete in the global stage.

MARINA’s Haboc at MPCF-Canaman

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Opinion

SEAFARER RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES

by F R Chowdhury There is a major transformation in trade, commerce and industry with the end of World War II. Outsourcing of labour is now a prime consideration. Labour intensive industries are set-up in third world countries to exploit cheap labour, hired where possible.

The shipping industry has become more international. Gone are the days when ships used to be owned and manned by the nationals of the flag state. The ship-owners prefer to register their ships in a third country where there is lower taxation and lesser controls and restrictions.

Liberia, Marshall Islands and the Bahamas are “open registers”. There is no restriction on the nationality of seafarers; owners can hire seafarers from a country where wages are low.

Since the vessel hardly calls at home port and because seafarers will have to be flown in to join the ship, the owners

prefer to take bulk of them from a single country.

That is why they need crewing agents in the country of the seafarers to select the required crew and arrange for their travel to join the ship. Such representative/agent are also required to complete any local formality.

However, neither STCW nor SOLAS-ISM recognises any such entity. The term “company” is used to define the entity responsible for safe operation of the ship with security and protection of the marine environment. Resources including manning remain the responsibility of the (ISM) company. The crewing agent works under the umbrella of the company.

To protect rights and privileges of the seafarers, ILO felt the need for some degree of control by Administration of the country of the seafarers’ origin.

That is why they introduced the entity “Recruitment and Placement Services” (RPS). They are to be licensed by the Administration and responsible to the Administration for seafarers sent through them.

ISM companies should use only licensed RPS. The company shall remain responsible to the flag state; the RPS answerable to the Administration of the seafarers’ nationality.

When not paid wages, the crew should complain to the flag state that can pressure the ISM Company because the DOC (document of compliance) of the company is issued by the flag state. The seafarers can also complain to their own national administration that can exercise leverage over RPS licensed by them.

The ultimate option still remains with the seafarers to arrest the ship for the lien they have to recover wages and repatriation expenses.

F R Chowdhury is a former Director General of Shipping, Bangladesh. He is also an Ex-Deputy Chief Examiner of UK-MCA, Maritime Administrator of Gibraltar and Maritime Adviser to GOP, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Editor’s Note. The author is an acknowledged expert in maritime issues and concerns, with worldwide lectures and experience. But his fertile mind cannot be confined in any one area; he must explore yonder horizons –- socio-political, economic trends --- truly a Renaissance spirit.

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Education Outgoing Admin Evidente receives President Emeritus Award for JBLCF-Bacolod

OIC Parcia takes the oath

3 JBLFMU Graduations The pride and glory of the moment, serial commencement exercises for three batches --- over 3,000 young and raring, trained and cultured to compete with the best of the world.

They marched proud and certain, from the portals of the pioneering private maritime education and training institution in the Visayas and Mindanao, based in Bacolod City and Iloilo province: •

John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod (40th), April 4, SMX Convention Hall

•

JBL Maritime University – Molo (68th), April 5, at the covered court

•

JBL Foundation Maritime University – Arevalo (68th), April 6, at the covered court.

Highlight is the turnover of the school banner, symbolizing the transfer of main responsibilities from Capt. Luis Evidente to Mr. Robert Parcia, the new OIC Administrator. Witnessing the ceremony was Dr. Ronald Raymond Sebastian, Chief Executive Officer (The President Emeritus, Dr. Mary Lou Arcelo, was in Vietnam for a conference).

Evidente was honored with a plaque of appreciation, proclaiming his valuable service, dedication and loyalty which contributed to the realization of the mission and vision of the Institution

ONE LACSONIAN

during his watch.

leadership.

JBLCF-Bacolod received the President Emeritus Award for performance excellence, rounded up in Total Quality Management.

(T)o the best of my abilities, I commit to continue taking care of your people and the institution you have grown for the past 8 years. June 2016 is the start of very huge challenge not only for me as the new leader but for the people of this institution as a whole considering the full implementation of the K-12.”

It honors the JBL foundation unit for its strong commitment to total quality management, focus on results and manifest management system which centers on continual improvement in the delivery of education and training and provide a way of responding to the needs and requirements of the stakeholders.

Evidente comments, “The achievement is simply because we have been united in those efforts. Sometimes we hold back a little bit but with a little push and a little reminder we do know that we have an obligation to stakeholders towards our mission and vision we look ahead and never look back.”

He was nostalgic, too: “It has been to me like it was running a ship, each one being responsible for his own function and obligation, each one being competent enough to do his share, each one contributing his own personal effort and as one we complete a safe voyage.”

As the new OIC, Parcia was both humble and bullish: “With an open heart and mind I am accepting the responsibilities.

Capt. Evidente who has been my boss, my mentor and my friend, thank you so much for molding me right under your

Parcia also appealed to the employees to “… continue to cling on to one another because it is the only way for us to prevail.”

Evidente serves as Executive Assistant to the CEO, concurrently Director for Academic Affairs. He shall harmonize implementation of policies in all the three campuses. His plate is full: member of the CHED/MARINA Technical Working Group (TWG) curriculum review committee member, and responsible for international affairs like meetings and liaisons.

Revamp.

At the JBLFMU- Molo gym on April 1st was the changing of the guards, viz: •

Engr. Roberto Neal Sobrejuanite heads JBLFMU-Arevalo

•

Engr. Ralph L. Pador takes the JBLF Training Center

•

Capt. Alfred G. Espinosa handles MARINO WORLD

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instituted and we have inculcated in our efforts everyday, we do hope it will remain, not only at work but also at home and in your own personal and private lives.

POMI’s Daguio with sponsored cadets

JBLFMU-Molo JBLFMU CEO Sebastian implored employees to cooperate, more so with innovations for the benefit of units concerned. For an organization to work, it will not only be about leadership; but most importantly, of working together.

He just hopes that no matter who the leader is, there will be continuity.

On the other hand, Dr. Arcelo says surely the JBLFMU community is always ready to the challenges. She believes that the university has been already institutionalized thus despite the changes in leadership, people already know their job. Operation will continue and even improve.

Speakers.

Top caliber speakers were on hand: Freddie T. Bernal, CHEd Regional Office VII and Interim Regional Director of CHEdRO XVIII Negros Island Region at JBLCF-Bacolod;

Partners.

30 representatives from shipping and crewing companies who are benefactors of the cadets attended. They awarded cadets who bagged academic honors and other recognitions.

The common theme was, “The Maritime Vanguard in Pursuit of Global Excellence” and JBL campuses are fused into one mission, one goal.

Evidente reminds, “But do remember that it is not only on that very first interview or on the very first day at work you will have to prove yourself all throughout life, all throughout your future and all throughout your career professional or otherwise. You will have to be steadfast citizens of the country, you will have to be law abiding, you will also have to be God-fearing.

I also hope that the values we have

Capt. Jerry M. Draper, Port Captain and Owner’s Representative of Optimum Shipping Services and Scorpio Group Shipping at JBLMU-Molo; and C/O Joemar P. Masacote, Recruitment and Career Development Manager of Marlow Navigation Draper and Masacote are both alumni of JBLFMU. Masacote and Marlow cadets

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More than 3,000 graduated from the three campuses on diploma courses like Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Hotel and Restaurant Management Major in Cruise Ship Services, Customs Administration, Business Administration, Tourism Management and Information Technology.

The Founder.

Juan B. Lacson was born May 9, 1898 in Silay City, Negros Occidental, the third of eight children. He grew up in their hacienda in Manapla where the family owned a rowboat to transport sugar from Silay to Iloilo.

He took his primaries in Silay and Manapla, high school at Siliman University in Dumaguete City. The kid wanted to take naval architecture but for the finances; instead, he enrolled on the two-year Associate in Nautical Science on a scholarship grant from the Philippine Nautical School. He graduated in 1920 and immediately boarded as an Apprenticemate onboard SS Venus of the Manila Steamship Company.

Two years after, he got his Third Mate license. In 1937, he was skipper of the new and luxurious yacht, Limbas (Seahawk) of one of Manila’s richest

EDUCATION

businessmen. In 1938, he went to the United States with the owner and gained more experience as a ship officer.

Coming back, he served the Coast Guard Patrol Service of the Light House Department of the Bureau of Customs until November 1941. He was Chief Mate of Natsuko, then bound for US. When World War II broke out, he joined the US Coastguard as Lieutenant Junior Grade in 1942. He was posted at the coastal area of San Francisco, commanded the Bataan on a suicide war mission --- earning him a medal of honor.

He also took command in December 1945 of FS-273. FS (freight ships) are known as Liberty Ships, heroes of the Normandy assault of Allied forces against the Axis powers. Soldiers won WWII but only with merchant mariners delivering critical war materials aboard FS --- unarmed, thousand perished over waters infested by German torpedo subs.

The exploits are in the Army Freight and Supply Histories.

JBLFMU-Molo speaker Draper with wife; JBLFMU Sebastian and Espinosa; MW Bacani and Miranda

He was granted US citizenship, took the name John, and settled in San Juan, Puerto Rico, then a US trust territory.

When war ended, Capt. Lacson returned and spent 12 years as harbor pilot in Iloilo City. But there remains that aching to help the less fortunate, to open opportunities for young boys to follow him to the sea.

In 1948, he founded the Iloilo Maritime Academy (IMA) --- and the rest, is history.

Capt. Lacson is immortalized as a teacher, a master mariner, a port pilot.

He changed the lives of Ilonggos, making Iloilo the Seafarers Capital of the Philippines --- venturing the blue waters of the globe, highly esteemed on deck and engine, providing well for their families and country --- all from a Captain, his life well-spent, who journeyed back to his Creator 15 June 1992.

World Leader in Maritime Standard

FUJIWARA HEADS CLASSNK Current EVP Koichi Fujiwara has been appointed to the top three posts of ClassNK, that of Chairman, President and Representative Director effective 7 March 2016.

This triggered a carousel of appointments: EVPs Yasushi Nakamura and Tetsuya Kinoshita will continue in their present roles and joined by Junichiro Iida as Managing Director.

Fujiwara has replaced Noboru Ueda in all the three posts. EVP Tetsushi Agata has been appointed as Executive Auditor reflecting the Society’s aim to strengthen its auditing system.

Launching statement of Fujiwara was bold and bearish, “Following the recent downturn of the shipping and

shipbuilding markets, the business environment surrounding ClassNK has become even more challenging.

Under our new executive team, we will work to ensure stable operations and further enhance our corporate governance as required of an independent third-party organization so that the Society can continue contributing to the development of the maritime industry in the long term.”

Koichi Fujiwara holds a Master of Naval Architecture from the University of Tokyo, and has served in Japan’s Ministry of Transportation (now Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).

He proved to be an outstanding policy maker in the maritime administration; thus, assumed as Director-General of the

Chairman and President Koichi Fujiwara

Maritime Bureau in 2006.

In a career shift in 2007, he joined ClassNK, appointed Managing Director in 2010. Fujiwara was EVP by 2011 and chartered the expansion and development ClassNK’s certification services.

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Education

Cristal e-College Graduation Rites

Father and son, bonding in tears of joy

TENTH and

TOUCHING Inspiring and touching, reflection of the Boholano heart and caring.

Such were Cristal e-College Ring Hop rites (March 30) at the Verdant Pavilion of Panglao Island Nature Resort and the 10th Commencement Exercises (March 31) at the campus covered court in Tawala, Panglao. Heads up and raring to face the seas, 358 cadets marched with degrees in BSMarine Engineering and BSMarine Transportation.

Equally proud, more so the parents, are graduates of degree courses in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Criminology, Theology and Elementary Education.

Noticeable is the common proficiency of the graduates in spoken English, the global language of business. Match this with technical knowledge and work competency, it is not surprising if Boholanos enrich the work legend Filipino seafarers are showing to the world at large.

Ring Hop. The rite is actually a pre-graduation ceremony where parents are present --- farmers, fisherfolks, the common clay. But not tonight; they are giants of passion. The hugs, the tears, the mute prayers of gratitude are all expressed in opening a simple gift: their baby pictures encased, with the Cristal e-College logo to herald a milestone in their lives.

Academic Excellence Awardee Deck Cadet Tom Anthony Galve gave the welcome remarks, “Our education has nourished not just our minds but our

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spirits, enriched not just our brains but our hearts. In this education we will be competent, confident and prepared to face our future careers and prove this education we will take success in the industry.”

Academic Excellence Awardee Engine Cadet Prince Jason Ang opened his piece in Nippongo (Japanese) being a ward of K-Line which gave them scholarship grants, training and ready jobs. Ang stresses, “(W)ords are not enough to express how thankful all of us graduates are towards you our loving parents and guardians, no matter how hard we try in life we will never be able to repay you in full. However, we will definitely give our best to make use of the dreams and sacrifices you have entrusted to us.”

The graduates sung Always You, a tribute to their parents, mentors and teachers who stood by their side, more so when most needed.

The night echoed with Thank Yous, gift-giving, a shared dinner, and formal recognition of leadership and exemplary

awards.

Guest speaker was Dr. Angel Alcala, Chairman of both the Board of Advisers Siliman University and the Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management. Alcala received in 1992 the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for public service, the Asia counterpart of the Nobel Prize. He was Secretary of DENR, Chairman of CHED, and a school mate of Dr. Victoriano Tirol, Jr, founder of the Cristal e-College.

Why the sea.

The land area of our country is only 300,000 square kilometers but the sea around us is seven fold. That is why marine transportation and marine engineering are important aspects of education in the Philippines.

This Cristal e-College has immense potential to work for the welfare of the people, particularly of Bohol and this island, Panglao, taken as a “symbol of honor and achievement and of professional distinction of affiliation.”

K-Line Morohara

Cong. Relampagos

K-Line Saito

TNKC Takashima

More so, it carries with it a responsibility to live out the bond with the college and their classmates. The ring is the guiding compass that ensures the graduates stay on the path of persistence and daily commitment to the requirements of their profession.

Bohol First District Congressman Rene Relampagos shared, “May you be as flexible and strong as tin and aluminum at the same time beautiful and durable as a diamond. Be productive citizens of Bohol, be productive Filipinos and, most of all, be productive children of God.

Toshikazu Saito (wearing his captain’s uniform) was nostalgic, “I’m just remembering my graduation time, it was 1974, 42 years back. I joined K-Line as Third Officer... very bad because I have nothing actual knowledge so there are lot of the things I need to learn.

In full force.

(On the elections of May 9) he admonished, “… let us all be very careful in who we chose. At the end of the day, we are casting our votes on the kind of society we want to have for ourselves and for our children. The question is are we voting for a society of violence or of corruption?”

This is just the start of your life, so we will support you. How to achieve your dream? I cannot write what I did during my K-Line time, after joining K-Line I worked hard then never give up, then believe yourself, nothing short cut.. You have to work hard.”

At the commencement exercise, Cristal-e Board of Directors are all present: Dr. Cristeta Tirol, co-Founder and Director of Finance; Dr. Victoriano Tirol III, BoT Chairman and Director for Administration; Dr. Will Tyron Tirol, President and Ms. Jucil Marie Tirol, Director of Academic Affairs.

Ms. Jucil Tirol underlines, “Panglao is indeed beautiful and what adds to its natural beauty are the values that its people embrace. All adding up to meaning of the achievement that you see in them as they celebrate an important aspect of their academic life, their graduation.

K-Line Ship Management President

K-Line is the biggest partner of the College. By 2008-2009, Kawasaki, Kissen,

Bright Maritime EVP Ebron with chosen cadets

Cristal e-College shares these values as its commitment expressed in its mission to produce young professionals who value transformation in becoming professionals and leaders. It highlights integrity, excellence and social justice.”

Graduates received their diploma on the theme, Carry on – Endeavor to Accomplish what is Approved by God and Man.

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TENTH AND TOUCHING

Cristal-E BoT with Alcala and K-Line Family

Kaisha or K-Line of Tokyo, Japan chose Cristal-E College as the recipient of its Maritime Education Scholarship Program (MESP). A full scholarship grant was initially approved for 24 engine freshman cadets from various testing centers in the Philippines. The company also facilitated construction of a 114-student dormitory in Panglao in the latter part of May 2009.

The scholarship program offered by “K” Line with K-Line Maritime Academy (KLMA) Phils. as its administrator, selects from secondary schools (high school) nationwide.

Those qualified to be “K” Line scholars

Cristal-E and guests

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are sent to Cristal-E College, “K” Line’s accredited school. It has adopted this to prepare its own supply of competent marine officers onboard the ever expanding “K” Line fleet. Their scholars shall complete BSMarE or BSMT under terms of theMESP with Cristal-E. Capt. Michinori Morohara, K-Line Marine Human Resource Group-Seafarers Policy Team, says, “I strongly advise you to navigate your destiny with confidence and determination guided by the core values of patience, loyalty and hardwork to achieve your professional goals.”

Mr. Toshimichi Takashima, Managing Director TNKC ROHQ- Manila, believes,

“You will be tomorrow’s future leader of this country and also the shipping industry…Have the courage to set your goal and aim high…Be proud of what you have achieved today and be ambassador of your country to the world.”

Other partners present were C/E Akinori Abe, K-Line Representative; Capt.

Edgardo Baratang, KLMA President, Capt.

Wilfred Garcia, VP- Veritas Maritime; Ms. Nancy Ebron, EVP-Bright Maritime Corp.; Capt. Cesar Omnes, PresidentNew Filipino Maritime Agencies; Capt.

Eduardo Castro, VP-Island Overseas Transport and Ms. Aurora Maghirang, SAVP, Development Bank of the Phils.

Feature Jimenez, Haboc and Pimentel

Hosted by L4SS E-Library

SAFE SEAFARING MEET IN MANILA The First Conference on Safe Seafaring convenes April 20th in Manila, Philippines attended by leading maritime schools, training centers, think tanks, as well as stakeholders from shipping industries at the Lagoon, Hotel H2O, Ocean Park, Manila.

Sub-headed Toward Higher Quality Maritime Education and Training: Learning Innovations for Safe Seafaring, it is organized by the Library for Safe Seafaring (L4SS) and its mother maritime school, Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation in Canaman, Camarines Sur, south of Manila, in the Bicol region.

It is in partnership with the Elsevier Foundation (of USA and The Netherlands), in cooperation with the Phil Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI), Phil Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI), as well as with the international Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMAREST) and Nautical Institute (NI).

It attracted more than 100 participants: maritime educators, trainers, cadets, government officials, media practitioners and other maritime stakeholders, from the Philippines, Singapore, Japan, India, and Papua New Guinea.

The morning opens with the colors borne by marching cadets from the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIM). Following is the spiritual invocation of Bishop Bartolome Espartero, Chairman of MissiontoSeafrers. org.on. Bagong Himig Serenata, Polytechnic University of the Phils, led the national anthem, Lupang Hinirang.

Live streaming, tele-conferencing with MPCF-Canaman and Legazpi, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific in Bataan and Dava Merchant Marine Academy (DMMA) of Southern Phils in Davao was made possible by the UP Information Technology Development Center (UP-ITDC) in cooperation with Smart Communications which provided free internet connectivity to the whole day event.

Salutary messages were delivered by: •

Engr, Felix M. Oca, President, PAMI – “We encourage this activity, we would participate as an organization because it helps us develop.”

•

Capt. Arsenio Padilla, President, PAMTCI - “The growth of shipping relies on excellent maritime people who would not exist without the good performance of maritime education and training.”

•

Ms. Carla Limcaoco, President, Women in Maritime (WIMA Phil) “It is a constant challenge to keep up with the trends in education and the need to make this relevant to our students.”

•

VAdm Eduardo Ma. R Santos, President, NI & IMarEST Phils – “(C)ontinuing professional development - this is a very important theme for everyone.”

•

Mr. David Kelly, Director for Asia Pacific, IMarEST – “We recognize that learning never stops. We know that everybody learns something new everyday.”

Opening.

“The industry has to continue with its being dynamic leaving no stones unturned when it comes to the subject safe seafaring. New ideas and technologies continue to crop up.

Hence, we cannot just ignore their presence and availability as they are meant to further improve the amenities we offer to the people we serve,” says Commodore Dante La Jimenez, CEO MPCF Legazpi City & Sec-Gen of PAMI as he welcomes participants.

Keynote speaker, Commissioner Maria Cynthia Rose Banzon Bautista, of the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) says, “The paradigm shift is from education

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SAFE SEAFARING MEET IN MANILA

Technology Aided Human-Centered Solutions

to learning and then to life-long learning, the continuing education.

•

But the profoundness of this shift lies in its focus on its individual learners, that is the shift. Away from teachers teaching classes to individual learners to help them adopt to the evolving requirements of the labor market and better master the changing timeframes and rhythms of individual existence.”

These were matched by experts speaking on their fields, viz:

Conference.

The meet proper opens at mid-morning, presided by Conference Chair, Ms. Evita L Jimenez, also author of Library for Safe Seafaring (L4SS); moderated by Conrad Cordero, MPCF VP-Admin and Ms. Marian Her. Lazaro, VP-Academics. Mr. Elmer Abad, MPCF Public Relations Officer, was emcee in the day’s proceedings.

Ms. Evita L. Jimenez, L4SS Project Manager and a trustee of MPCF Board, believes, “The conference is all about sharing resources, knowledge and everything about what we have to share with the rest of the seafaring world. This is about building technology aided global library for helping raise scientific learning and competencies among maritime students, teaching for seafarers along with the stakeholders in the maritime industry.”

•

•

•

•

•

•

Maritime Situationers, Trends and Standards

•

Maritime Challenges: Prevention and Solutions

The Jimenez siblings, CHED Comm Bautista and RELX Cejo

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•

C/E Alfredo Haboc, Deputy Administrator for Regional Concerns, MARINA - “Phil Policy on Maritime Safety”

Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan, Chairman, Health Futures Foundation and Former Secretary, Department of Health – “Natural Remedies for Health Issues Confronting Seafarers”

•

Dr. Jay Batongbacal, Executive Director, UP IMLOS (Institute of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Seas) – “Global SEASCAPE & Beyond”

Capt Richard Teo, Consultant, Papua New Guinea Maritime College – “Innovative Tools for MET and Continuing Learning”

•

Engr Rodolfo Lozada, CEO, Galileo (TARA apps) – “Safe APPS for Seafarers”

•

Mr. Allan Taule, Division Chief, DOST, “Starbooks, First Digital Library”

•

Mr. Quiel Marcelo, Marketing Officer, Smart Comm – “Smart Marino All Abroad”

Dr. Angelica Baylon, Secretary, IMarEST & NI Phils, Director for External Affairs, MAAP – “Global Challenges and Current Trends: Issues on Phil MET Atty. Iris Baguilat, president, DoehleSeafront Crewing-Manila. “The Competitiveness Issues of Philippines Seafaring” Dr. Maragtas Amante, L4SS Maritime Studies Consultant UP VP for Administration – “Maritime Labor Convention: Towards a Philippine Scorecard

•

Mr. Gerardo Borromeo, CEO-Phil Transmarine Carriers (PTC) – “State of Shipping”

•

Atty. Brenda V. Pimentel, Pres., Philippine Maritime Research Services (PHLMRSS) – “Women in Maritime: Learning the Ropes”

Three session focused on these perspectives:

•

“Learn to Sail Safe; Preventing Collision on Sea”

Capt Yashwant Chhabra, Fellow, Company of Master Mariners of India –

On top were high-caliber reactors and key discussants: •

Dr. Elizabeth Salabas, Former President, PAMI

•

Atty. Edwin dela Cruz, Chairman, International Seafarers Action

•

Bishop Bart Espartero, Chairman, Mission Seafarers.org

•

Riina Vaher, 2nd Officer, Marlow Navigation

•

Capt. Gaudencio Morales, President, Integrated Seafarers of the Phil

•

Engr Nelson Ramirez, President, United Filipino Seafarers

FEATURE

Safe Seafaring participants

Dr. Edgar Despi, Quality Management Rep for ISO, MPCF-CCCS, presented the L4SS official website: www.safeseafaring-org scheduled to operate a few weeks after the conference.

including better access to MET and that onboard gender awareness and sensitivity training be encouraged of all ships manning Filipino seafarers.

“This is where we collaborate with other maritime institutions. This will be our website for all the maritime schools and training centers that could promote safe seafaring,” Despi explains.

5. For the full implementation of the ILO maritime labor convention by passing the required laws implementing rules and regulations.

Launch.

The Philippine edition of a book on sea safety, Mariners’ Guide to Preventing Collisions written by Capt. Yashwant Chhabra, was launched at the conference.

Capt. Kamal Chadra, Capt. Rodolfo Aspillaga, Dr. Baylon, guests from C&E Publishing, the Mariners Board and L4SS were among the witnesses of the promotion.

Ms. Nimpa Valdez-Jimenez, MPCF Board Secretary delivered the Conference Resolutions: 1. For L4SS library for safe seafaring be adopted as an innovative tool for maritime stakeholders under PAMI, PAMTCI and others to enhancing MET and continuing professional education; 2. To promote shared learning resources accessible for free to all students, educators as well as other stakeholders of maritime community with the support of our partners and sponsors; 3. To support competency based quality learning materials like Mariner’s Guide to Preventing Collisions by encouraging seafarers’ acquisition in partnership with the stakeholders.

4. To promote the rights of women seafarers

6. To integrate education on ILO MLC 2006 level in the curriculum of all maritime schools management level courses and PDOS. 7. Resolved to supply free online learning materials like Starbooks to maritime education and training.

These resolutions shall be disseminated for adoption of PAMI and PAMTCI members.

Ms. Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, President, Mariners Polytechnic Training Center and incoming president of WIMAPAHIL reacts, “This is really a first. This is a historic event for the maritime industry. Two things, 1. It’s innovation for learning through our library for safe seafaring on shared resources motto; 2. We need to expand our collaboration with non-traditional maritime partners like what we have seen in DOST, Starbooks, Smart, Mr Jun Lozada, everybody who have not really been updated (with the industry).”

and technology, in maritime education and training.

Ms. Rasheele Cejo, Director of HRD, RELX Phils received the plaque on behalf of Mr. David A. Ruth, Executive Director, ElsevierAmsterdam, Netherlands.

Elsevier, a scientific publisher and technological solutions provider, is a division of RELX. Elsevier Foundation is its’ corporate charity founded over a decade ago. Each year, it gives a million dollars for projects focused on global health research in developing countries and diversity in Science Education.

It is run by Mr David Ruth in the US and Netherlands. The Foundation donated for the past three years over $76,000 for the Library for Safe Seafaring. The project impacts on the Philippines because every one of five sailors in the world is a Filipino.

Donor.

Dr. Marilisa Ampuan, CEO MPCFCamarines Sur (with Dante and Merle) presented a plaque of appreciation to Elsevier Foundation for sponsoring the L4SS Library. This enhances the quality of learning and advance knowledge in science

Capt. Chhabra book launch

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Education

OSG Rubio, DCSP Eusebio awards cadet

THE GRADUATES: SPARKLES FOR DCSP Mindanao’s premier maritime school presented its degree graduates April 15th, enriching again the Philippine pool for young, qualified seafarers for the waters of the world.

On this defining day, DMMA College of Southern Philippines (DCSP) held its 23rd Commencement and 16th Recognition Exercises at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City.

President Lorenzo Edwin Eusebio and Chairman Rogelio Paramio led the ceremonies, with the teaching faculty and administrative staff, parents and industry partners.

Maritime cadets led the graduates, a total of 340; 196 BSMT, 144 BSMarE.

27 in Hotel and Restaurant Services certification.

408 BSMT cadets completed the threeyear academic requirements; 313 for the BSMarE program. They need the mandatory one-year onboard experience to complete the course.

A day earlier, a baccalaureate Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Christopher Thadeos Ganzon at the Redemptorist church of the Mother of Perpetual Help parish.

63 cadets graduated with academic awards, 47 from BSMT degrees and 16 for BSMarE; Degree holders in other disciplines were also prominent: 60 in Hospitality Management, 39 in Customs Administration, 4 in Information Technology, 3 in Computer Science and

Scholarships.

DCSP is foremost in providing scholarship grants for deserving students through the sponsorship of shipping and industry partners.

It holds the most number of scholars under the DBP Endowment for Education Program (DEEP) of the Development Bank of the Phil (DBP). This is a corporate social responsibility initiative that provides funding support to bright and promising youth from low-income families to pursue further education, including maritime education.

DEEP was launched in 2008 with P1 Billion for a 10-year implementation.

An additional P500 million has been approved for 2018. Maritime courses are best model being E to E, education to employment. Thus, maritime students enjoy a bigger share of support under the program of study now, pay later.

DBP-DEEP officials, mom and scholar

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DBP officials are regulars in the commencement exercises. For this

Ramos of Maine Marine

year, Senior AVP Aurora Maghirang and Manager Merley Nonoy witnessed the rites.

Guests from the manning companies include: •

C/E, Cesar Rubio, Owner’s Representative OSG Ship Management

•

Capt. Ayato Michika, Owner’s Rep, Phoenix Maritime

•

Lucas Jacinto, AGM, Phoenix Maritime

•

Jeffrey Calambuhay, Human Resource Career Dev Manager, Hartman

•

Guilbert Garcia, Recruitment and Training Officer, Klaveness Maritime Services

•

Capt. Manfred August Ramos, Training Officer, Maine Marine Phils

•

C/M Edwin Mata, Training Officer, Pilipinas Crown Maritime

•

DCSP Paramio

C/E Peter Hagol AVP, Veritas Maritime

Expected to be on an exploratory visit are Capt. Edgardo Baratang, President, K-Line Maritime Academy and C/E Akinori Abe, K-Line Representative. Their company has yet to sponsor a cadet at DCSP but they took the stage.

Currently, there are more than 40 partner companies with ocean-going vessels.

This is aside from domestic shipping companies, both increasing.

Sadly, guests seems to decrease where formerly top echelons of companies attend. A major suspect is the frequency of energy brown-outs in Davao today.

There is a separate graduation rite by June under the Philippine Cadet Program of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association.

About 100 cadets will receive diplomas for BSMT and BSMarE courses.

Praises.

OIC Director Eduardo Bellido, Overseas

Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Office-XI, the commencement speaker, was quite impressed: “I would like to praise DMMA because they have the built-in mechanisms or placement arrangement not only with manning agencies but with other companies.”

Noting assured employment, Director Bellido adds, “(T)here are graduates who are not able to join us today because they are already onboard ocean-going vessels.

They have jobs already before they graduated.”

All told, the rites also mark in stone the achievements of DCSP. On top of quality education and an environment conducive to growth and personal development, DCSP works on the practicals like scholarship grants, company match-up, ready jobs with reliable companies.

These are in line with DCSP Institutional goals of sufficiency of resources, its full utilization and safeguarding for development and transformation, capability building.

Hartmann Family

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Governance

OUR PARTYLISTS More bills are pending, including one for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to collect a membership fee of $25 every two years to equalize fees between land-based and sea-based members. This makes payment time-bound rather than the present contract-bound as seafarers have shorter contracts, explains Rep. Manalo.

These fees are shouldered by the principal or ship owner, the added burdens that these recurring fees cause lead some employers look for other nationalities, adds Manalo.

ANGKLA’s Enrile The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has accredited four Partylists for the maritime sector for the elections of May 9th, possibly earning representations in the Lower House of the bicameral Philippine Congress. Should any garner the required votes, each may nominate a maximum three representatives or one, at least.

The system started in 2001 but only in 2013 that the maritime industry was able to qualify for a nominee, Atty. Jesulito Manalo of Angkla Partylist.

The three other groups are: •

AMOR, Association of Marine Officers and Ratings (#71 on the ballot)

•

MARINO, Samahan ng mga Marino (#85)

•

CLASE, Central Luzon Alliance for Socialized Education (#13)

Trailblazer.

Angkla (# 43) polled 360,497 votes to earn a seat, the first ever for a maritime group.

For a first-termer, it fared well with four bills enacted into laws: •

RA10635 - The MARINA STCW Law

•

RA10668 - Amendments to the Philippine Cabotage Law;

• •

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RA10698 - The Naval Architecture Modernization Law; and RA10706 - The Seafarers’ Protection Act (or the Anti-Ambulance Chasing Act).

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Angkla pursues a Five-Point Agenda: (1) Protects seafarer’s livelihood; (2) Coordinate with various government agencies; (3) A Maritime High School in three pilot areas in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao; (4) Heighten awareness on seafarers’ contribution to the country; and (5) Spearhead seafarers’ participation in government.

Its five nominees are maritime and legal experts: (1st) Rep Jesulito Manalo, son of a ship captain, a maritime lawyer; (2nd) Capt.

Ronaldo Enrile, senior executive in a major shipping group; (3rd) Atty. Augusto Perez Jr.; (4th) Chief Engineer Petercon A. Lugue; and (5th) Atty. Bernadette Yanzon Blanco.

Angkla expects to increase its vote with the open endorsement of three major affiliations, that of the Joint Manning Group, Filipino Shipowners Association and Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.

6. Free passport for all OFWs 7. Push for the improvement of Magna Carta on OFWs. 8. Repeal detrimental laws and policies disadvantegous to seafarers AMOR conducts Friday symposia to hear grievances at the OFW Support Center in Kalaw street, Manila, favorite meeting place for seafarers. It has an office to address legal problem in consultation with Panambo maritime law office, owned by its First Nominee, Atty. Jay Panambo.

It is raging against Angkla’s amending Article 223 of PD 442, the Labor Code. If passed, awards won by seafarers are no longer “final and executory” as these shall be placed in escrow pending appeal of the employer.

The bill wants to ensure the restitution of monetary awards should appeal wins. Billions are not restituted to employers winning the appeal since seafarer-beneficiaries have often spent the award. Because of these, and some atrocious claims and connivance, some shipowners have transferred operations to other countries.

Marino.

While it calls for teamwork with other maritime partylists, it believes an essential difference of delivering results, rather than empty promises.

MARINO advocates:

Amor.

It advocates an 8-Point Agenda, viz: 1. Fight for OFW Retirement Plan (Seabased/ Landbased) 2. Scrap multiple but similar and repetitive trainings. Review all STCW certificates not in accordance with IMO Regulations 3. Remove age-limit and age discrimination in employment 4. Comprehensive health plan (hospitalization, medicine, etc.

5. Fight for the minimum wage of newly hired (newly graduate) seaman.

AMOR’s Elaba

the wife of Davao City District II Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, active in the nation-wide campaign.

CLASE. From a regional sectoral partylist, it is now a national operations that claim to be voice of students, parents, teachers and schools.

It is composed of outstanding, seasoned educators in the different provinces of Central Luzon (Region 3) who are committed to uplift the welfare of the youth for educational advancement and employment. This is to transform their lives and become productive citizens. Ultimately, to contribute to the social and economic development of the nation.

MARINO’s Alejandre a. Scholarship programs nationwide, expanding its program for two decades now in Mindanao b. Pass relevant laws which will benefit seafarers in general;

Its 5th Nominee, Capt. Edwin Itable, President of Masters and Mates Association (MMAP) proposes an “exploratory dialogue” to unite the four partylists in a “covenant” allowing all to win a seat, at least.

CLASE presents a 7-Point platform: •

c. Provide free legal assistance to seafarers in distress; and d. Assistance to ailing seafarers.

The group has started small but claims good track record in Mindanao. It does not claim a vote preserve anywhere but relies on all the Filipino seafarers worldwide, their families, and other stakeholders such as the maritime education sector and the maritime industry, in general.

Besides, it is optimistic its nominees will attract votes coming from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. All come from the seafaring/ maritime industry or maritime education sectors and have proven track records on Marino’s advocacy.

Marino first nominee Florence Alejandre calls “To all the Filipino seafarers, their families and maritime industry stakeholders and all voters in general, let us work hand in hand and advance a program-based reform for the entire Maritime Industry. Let us all be proactive. As Mayor Duterte would often say, “We should be the change that we want to see in this country.”

Nominees are all officers of DMMA College of Southern Phils (DCSP): 1st, Dr. Florence Alejandre; 2nd, Atty Reneriza Bernardo Mambura; 3rd, 2/M Lorenzo Edwin Eusebio; 4th, Mr. Chrislam Vicente and 5th, Capt.

Rogelio Paramio.

Marino is an active and open supporter of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Dr. Alejandre is

Find ways to have training ship to fulfill the one year shipboard cadetship training to complete BSMT and BSMarE degrees;

•

Remedy the lack of teachers qualified as instructors/assessor on STCW ’78, also on simulators program of SOLAS;

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Reform the shipboard cadetship training program in accordance with the Training Record Book (TRB) on domestic and international standard;

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Review the 40-70-90% Carrying Capacity memo of CHEd and MARINA;

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Review the system on IMO Model Courses 7.01, 7.02, 7.03 and 7.04, etc.; examine the STCW Code 78 on knowledge, understanding at proficiency (KUP);

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Change the method of demonstrating competence for STCW ’78 (specially Function 1: Navigation at the management level); and

•

Study the “approved in-service experience” used by other IMO Member States for shorter training courses done on land.

Its first Nominee, Dr. Rene Legaspi, is Most Outstanding Alumnus in education of Don Bosco Academy in 1983 and 2007, Outstanding Fernandino in education in 2012 by the Government of San Fernando and Most Outstanding Filipino businessman in education from the Gawad America Awards Foundation in 2014.

Legaspi graduated from the University of the Philippines and has 45 years as an educator.

He is keenly aware of the need to improve access of indigent students to education.

Currently, he is president of Central Luzon College of Science and Technology San Fernando and Olongapo cities. He is also a national director of the Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAPSCU) and a founding trustee of the Central Luzon Higher Education.

More for growth.

Given the advocacy and credentials of nominees, the increase in maritime partylists is an encouraging development for the industry. The more, the merrier; two heads are better than one.

There is optimism for more representation when COMELEC ruled the top 58 vote-getter will earn representation instead of the 2% of total votes cast on the partylist nomination.

In the past 2% would demand 400,000 votes.

With the change, a partylist with 236,000 votes already qualified for one Nominee.

This is auspicious matched with the emerging interests of national leaders on the maritime industry. Let alone the critical foreign currency remittance and the volume of good paying jobs, the maritime industry could be the defining sector in the growth of the Philippines.

CLASE’s Itable

CLASE campaigns for the presidential bid of Duterte using the Masters and Mates (MMAP) claiming 65,000 members. It believes Duterte has the integrity, courage and political will to introduce reforms.

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Opinion

ABSENTEE VOTING NOT FOR SEAFARERS

by Capt. Victor Alviola

Capt. Victor Y. Alviola has written on the subject in March 2012. We find his thoughts relevant today. Hence, we feature an abstract of his views petitioned to COMELEC Commissioner Lucenito N. Tagle and Hon. Elpidio F. Barzaga, Jr., Chair of the Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms for the Lower Chamber of Congress--The Editors.

The Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) law continues to prejudice and suppress the right to vote of 500,000 seafarers scattered all over the globe. There are several party list groups representing the seafarers, but they have not done much.

Capt. Alviola has these views on ON-LINE REGISTRATION AND CASTING OF VOTES FOR OVERSEAS ABSENTEE VOTERS (OAV) Unless RA 9189 or the Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003 is revised, seafarers cannot exercise their rights to suffrage as they are always at sea.

A) WHY OAV LAW WILL NOT WORK. 1. A great majority are unregistered owing to their work: after contracts, they go on leave for 2-3 months, return onboard for another contract. In the 2010 national elections, out of 300,000 onboard seafarers, only 2,500 registered but only 500 voted.

2. Registration procedures abroad is to visit Philippine embassy or consulate offices, present a seaman’s book and accomplish an OAV form from the COMELEC. What if there’s no Philippine embassy/consulate where their ships are docked? Or if too far from

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the harbor? With limited time in port, Filipino seamen will not travel hours from their ships (lest left behind and lose their jobs. The Master’s concern is the operations of his ship, not the process of our elections.

3. Assuming in spite of difficulties they manage to register, how can they cast their votes at sea? If they are port, Problem 2 above starts.

4. Postal voting requires a forwarding address where COMELEC can send the ballot and election paraphernalia.

How, when even the operator/owner of a ship doesn’t know the itinerary of the vessel? Charterer decides where to load and deliver the cargoes, even change of charterer after one or two voyages.

And are there mail men in the middle of oceans to deliver election items and pick up ballots?

The only way seamen can avail of the OAV is by an ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION AND VOTING system. COMELEC should create a website whereby seafarers can register on-line, download ballots and cast their votes through the internet.

Advances in computer technology make this doable.

B) MATTERS TO CONSIDER: COMELEC officials should understand seafarers onshore must spend quality time with their families, undergo series of compulsory trainings for the latest on STCW 95 requirements, validate licenses and certificates. They have a mindset there are far more better things to do other than registering as absentee voter --- a right to vote that they couldn’t exercise in the first place whilst onboard.

The Government should allow them to register and vote on-line to encourage them to participate.

To uphold the sanctity of ballots, COMELEC should issue a scratch card, similar to those sold for telephone prepaid services, instead of an OAV ID. Blocked PIN codes thereon may be revealed by scratching off the opaque covering, gain access to COMELEC voting website, and usable only once.

C) MECHANICS To prevent multiple registrations (as ordinary and OAV voter): 1. Registering as OAV voter may be done at embassies/consulates abroad or through on-line registration. PIN codes shall be issued where they register as soon as the COMELEC”s computer system accepts and confirms the new voting status (whereby the registrant is purged off the voter’s list printed and posted by COMELEC in various polling precincts. This should prevent voting again should arrive the country on or before election day.

2. The requirements for on-line registration are: 2.1 Complete details of Passport; 2.2 Complete details of Seaman’s book; 2.3 Provincial and city address, district and barangay presently registered.

3. To confirm info provided by an applicant in an on-line registration, the COMELEC’s computer system must be linked with the data bank of both DFA and MARINA. No one will attempt to secure passports and seaman’s books just to vote illegally. It is tedious and difficult to produce training certificates and documentary requirements needed.

4. The computer system should be programmed to identify and reject any multiple or bogus applications.

5. Those already registered as OAV voters must again register to get their PIN codes.

D) CASTING OF VOTES 1. The PIN code shall first be entered to access the computer and download the sample ballot. After choice, the system would again require them to enter the details of their passports and seaman books. The computer system should be able to identify PIN codes assigned to specific passports and seaman’s books.

2. Even if they happen to be in the country at the time of election, they can only cast their votes on-line, not through the voting precincts of their home town (In the first place, their names have already been delisted as ordinary voters).

3. The computer system should be

programmed to reject any ballot with improper information.

4. All ships plying the oceans of the world have internet onboard.

E) LAND-BASED OFW Of more than a million OFWs during the 2010 elections, only 580,000 registered.

Of these, only 150,000 voted, a “ measly 25% “ said the COMELEC. F) OFWs AS “SWAY” VOTES In the later part of 2011, there are about 500,000 Filipino seafarers and expected to multiply to about 1 million seafarers’ onboard foreign trading ships. This is about half the total global requirements.

Elections have always been a numbers game. If the maritime vote cannot be a “sway” (or swing) vote, the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee (JCOC) and COMELEC may not bother to modernize the system of election for

this sector. It would not justify spending millions of pesos just to engage in a selective computerization.

Therefore, this proposal to computerize the OAV voting system must be extended and made available not only to seafarers but to millions of OFWs as well. The same system of registration and casting of votes can be applied.

With OFW remittances amounting to billions of foreign currencies, they play a vital role in pump-priming the Philippine economy.

RA 9189 (OAV) continues to prejudice OFWs voting rights. JCOC and COMELEC should now seriously consider implementing the electronic voting system. If our government acknowledges their significant contributions to the growth of our country’s economy, then they should be given an equal opportunity to select the political leaders of their choice.

Fairmont and Magsaysay Founder

ROBERT C.F. HO, RESTS AT 96 Robert C. F. Ho, founder and Chairman of the Fairmont and Magsaysay Group of Companies, peacefully joined the Lord last April 10, 2016 in Hong Kong at the age of 96.

From Shanghai, he studied at Columbia Business School, married Anita Magsaysay Ho+, and settled in Manila in 1948. He established Magsaysay and actively worked with colleagues in the Filipino Shipowners’ Association to draft and push for the passing of the Philippine Overseas Shipping Act, which he believed would be vital for the country’s development especially in its recovery from the aftermath of the Second World War. In 1963, he established Fairmont Shipping in Tokyo, Hong Kong and Vancouver, where he brought his family to live. He built an international

shipping business with strong ties in Japan and Europe.

He loved the maritime industry, the global nature of the shipping sector, especially the opportunity it gives to many Filipinos to develop meaningful professional careers in seafaring.

He built a strong Magsaysay and Fairmont culture guided by his strong values of integrity, respect, fairness and consideration for others.

Magsaysay and Fairmont management, employees, seafarers and their families, will continue to be inspired by the spirit of his philosophy.

He is survived by his five children, Helen, Linda, Doris, Robert Jr. and Steven, fourteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

The Final Farewell Blessing was held followed by Interment on April 17th.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciated donations in memory of Robert C. F. Ho to support the programs of Caza San Miguel (Center for the Arts of Zambales) Foundation.​

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Education

Magsaysay Pres. and CEO Ho leads the groundbreaking

MMMA IN ASIA PACIFIC A maritime school that shall impact on Asia and the Pacific region. This, Cavitenos were told to expect within two years as a P1.8-billion maritime school, modern and high-tech, shall rise on 13.2- hectare along Trinidad avenue, Barangay Salitran IV, Dasmarinas City.

This is the MOL/Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) named after the forging of Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL)

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with the Magsaysay Maritime (MMC), a major outfit in the past 26 years in Philippine maritime industry.

The synergy shall train for excellent and competent seafarers, possibly also to manage over 900 ocean-going vessels in its global fleet. And to service the rising demand for merchant mariners worldwide.

by Danny Q. Junco Groundbreaking was March 8th, as corporate executives of MMMA were joined in by Dasmarinas City officials with the District Congressman, Barangay Captain, and select guests.

Part of the ceremonies is the embedding of a time capsule, containing the project development map, shovels and spades symbolically used in the rituals. Thus, for the mundane--- more importantly, the

The synergy shall train for excellent and competent seafarers priest passionately implored The Almighty to bless the project with success the vision and the mission being of the greater benefit for the youth and the industry.

training which may extend for a year or two before they could be onboard ships. Another eight to 10 years must be experienced before being captains, observes Ms. Doris Magsaysay-Ho, president and CEO of Magsaysay, Inc.

MIS grounds at Via Verde Subdivision, Barangay San Agustin II, Dasmarinas City.

Teaming.

MMMA graduates of the four-year course may be absorbed immediately.

Their marine technical know-how earned from the school meet international standard, even those of International Conventions in force.

But the best.

MOL and MMC expanded the two-year course of Magsaysay Institute of Shipping (MIS) into a four-year degree diploma under MMMA. The upgrade was molded 2015 and realized with the positive endorsement of the Technical Panel of Maritime Education (MET), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Commission on Higher Education (CHEd).

MIS was founded in 1992 by a triumvirate: MMC, MOL and Fairmont Shipping of Hong Kong. The maritime school was able to produce 5,000 graduates, including 1,000 merchant marine officers now onboard ships cruising the oceans.

These seafarers are welltrained and comfortable with cutting-edge technology of modern ships. They make good income, provide well for their families, and remit crucial currency for the national economy.

Targets.

Timeline for MMMA is 2018 to start its BS in Marine Deck and Engine, four-year courses. These courses are also offered in maritime schools nationwide to supplement the usual two-year certification considered below international seafaring standard.

In the past, the two-year course cadet graduates would first undergo on-the-job

No stone is left unturned to produce graduates excellent on knowledge and competency. After all, Ms. Ho says MMMA is envisioned to be the leading private maritime academy in the Asia-Pacific given excellent facilities, modern equipment, calibrated curriculum, teaching faculty and learning environment.

Phasing.

The student complex building can accommodate 900 students. But only 300 qualified students will be accepted for 2018, then 300 each for 2019 and 2020 to total 900 in three years.

MMC President Marlon Rono assures all expenses by the students will be shouldered by MMMA; but, the Development Bank (DBP) may pitch in for tuition fees as in the past with the former MIS. The four-year course in MMMA may cost some P600,000, estimates MIS Director Alex Enriques who also says this is “regained” by MMMA in value added by graduates when they shine out in their maritime careers coming from the portals of MMMA. On March 8th, Batch 5 of 85 cadets of MIS graduated from the two-year course.

Associate of Deck and Engine Seafarer.

Themed Academe-Industry Linkage Program, ceremonies were held at the

MIS has offered two-year course since it was established 26 years back.

Rono takes pride on MMMA’s ShipIn Campus, a virtual ship with engine, lights and navigational equipment but stationary on land. He also says this campus is the most expensive among all other facilities to be built which will house laboratories, workshops, latest simulators, main engine and auxiliaries --- unwilling to quote a firm cost estimate (but, may be suggestive of readiness to fund on what should take to realize the ideal).

As a whole, MMMA facility comprises student complex building, student dormitory, academic building, swimming pool, oval track and field for students’ physical fitness, a chapel and prayer room are all elegant and beautiful replete with modern architectural designs. The student complex will house the school administration, auditorium, library, learning resource centers and a cafeteria; and firefighting training facility.

The MMMA facilities shall be constructed by Mitomo, a Japanese contractor of known probity, acknowledged by peers as one of the best in the industry.

Ms. Ho notes 90% of world cargo are carried and delivered by ships. She believes, “Shipping is a growing industry despite some of the economic upheavals around the world.” And MMMA shall fuel the global maritime industry with merchant mariners, hands and officer, in the engine and on deck --- educated and trained by an outstanding maritime school in the region; not the first but certainly the best in Asia and the Pacific, to start with.

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PROMOTE MARITIME CAREERS FOR WOMEN

FAME & WIMAPHIL FORGE PARTNERSHIP The Filipino Association for Mariners’ Employment (FAME) and Women in Maritime Philippines Association (WIMAPHIL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on April 15, 2016 sealing strategic alliance and tactical partnership to promote the greater integration of women in the seafaring profession.

Through this, FAME and WIMAPHIL will promote the need for an integrated strategy among stakeholders on the recruitment, training and career development of female maritime professionals. At the same time they will create an awareness in their respective spheres of influence of the need for appropriate facilities and the promotion of their welfare on board.

Both FAME and WIMAPHIL recognize the added value of integrating women into

Front: Ericson M. Marquez (FAME VP-External Affairs), Carla S. Limcaoco (WIMAPHIL President), Marlon R. Roño (FAME President) and Merle Jimenez-San Pedro (WIMAPHIL Treasurer) Back: Engr. Sammuel T. Lim (Director), Engr. Elmer A. Pulumbarit (Director), Atty. Rodello B. Ortiz (Board Secretary), Carmen B. Rebusi (Treasurer), Capt. Teodoro B. Quijano (Director), Capt. Emmanuel L. Regio (Director), and Mr. Jose Albar G. Kato (Director)

the seafaring sector to contribute to the sustainability of the Philippine leadership in the global maritime manpower sector.

The agreement was signed at the Manila Yacht Club.

NEW VIGOR FOR SWAPI SWAPI new leadership

The new leadership for Seamen’s Wives Foundation (SWAPI), took oath March 20, Palm Sunday, symbolic of renewed vigor on its 38th year.

This coincides with the global celebrations of Women’s Month whose goals and action are always supported by SWAPI of the Philippines.

Officers for Year 2016 are: •

Mrs. Medieva V. Valle, President

•

Mrs. Eva Papera Malaki, Vice President

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•

Mrs. Corazon N. Lorenzo, Treasurer

•

Mrs. Ninfa J. Borgonia, Secretary

•

Mrs. Virginia De Vera, Auditor

•

Mrs. Zenaida G. Sator, PRO

Fr. John Edgar Dumali, Our Lady of Peace Parish-Paranaque, gave the traditional blessings at the office of Dr. Alice Lamigo, founder. SWAPI was established in 1978, now a Foundation to expand services focused on maritime families and concerns.

After the ceremonies, the ladies went to

plan activities for the year. At a break, they broke bread on a potluck from the membership.

The new officers were elected February 27th, at the Post Valentine party held in Ireneville subdivision, Paranaque.

Past presidents are de-facto advisers like Dr. Nenita A. Pahed (immediate past president) and Dr. Alice Lamigo, founder.

Honorary memberships were granted to Atty. Tess Lora, former commissioner, National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) and Ms. Lyn Bacani, publisher of Marino World and Maritima.

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