MARINO WORLD 12TH ANN Digital Edition

12th ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

VOLUME XII NO.5 ISSN 1908-0972

US$8 €12 ¥200

PHP120

September-October 2017

MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS • BERTIZ MEETS MMP • MARINA EMPOWERS • MARITIME WEEK • RA 10635 IRR

Legislation MARINA TO AMEND 10635 IRR

Cover Story MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS

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Government

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MARINA EMPOWERS Event

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MARITIME WEEK Stories of Mariners When There is Truth and Love

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SILENCE IS THE LOUDEST

Content

ABOUT THE COVER Quo vadis ---where are you going?

We ask the youth but the answer is with the elders. And we are wary and worry: the national maritime roadmap of the Manning Capital of

the World is the response from a proclamation yet of Pres. Marcos.

The Magna Carta for Seafarers is debated for safety (STCW?) or labor (MLC?) or for turf (ahem!).

EDITORIAL BOARD

Publisher

Lyn Bacani

Creative Director

Editorial Consultant

B. Cortes Lagac

Jhon Henson Ong

Content Critique

Layout and Graphics

Commo. Dante Jimenez

Waldengrafix

Legal Counsel

Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.

News and Feature Writers

Eva Tan

Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors Ms. Merle San Pedro

RAdm. Adonis Donato

Atty. Cristina Beltran

International Contributors

F R Chowdhury

Mark Millar

Special Project Manager Gel Miranda

Boy Ilano

Photographers

Joamirica Tud

Kevin Garcia

Web Designer

Joy Picar-Labaguis

Richard Teo

Correspondents

Onin Miranda

Danilo Junco

Production Assistants

Joana Tud

Ruby Baltar

Digital Marketing Consultant Mark Dacillo

EDITORIAL OFFICE Tel. / Fax (632) 521-3633 Mobile (63) 906-491-2777

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

Published by Bacani & Associates Media Services Co. (BASMS) www.marino-world.com

Publisher Note

C

MUCH ADO ON FORM

omes the yearly paeans to the seafarers, twice in a year. Yes, and more. Actually.

Proclamation 828 signed by President Ramos in 9 July 1996 declared 18 August and every year thereafter as National Seafarers Day. But by July 11th, the International Maritime Organization (IMO of the UN) issued Circular 1881 encouraging annual celebrations of World Maritime Day within the week of 23 to 27 September.

In deference, Ramos issued in September 27th Proclamation 866 mandating such day as National Maritime Day; and every last Friday of September thereafter. At the same time, the executive fiat consolidated the National Maritime Day and the World Maritime Day every last Sunday of September as National Seafarers Day. President Estrada noted Proclamation 866 limits preparations to the Shipping and Ports Advisory Council and the Maritime League, both private NGOs to the exclusion of government agencies. He signed Proclamation 157 in 10 August 1999 designating the Maritime Authority Administration (MARINA) as the lead agency to prepare for the National Maritime Day. President Arroyo noted Proclamation 157 limits preparations to MARINA and wants

the Coast Guard (PCG), Ports Authority (PPA) and the Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) alternate in being the lead since they are all “… at the forefront of promoting, developing and implementing the national policy and capability.” Three groups were formed: Steering, Work Group, Secretariat.

President Aquino III did not amend any of the proclamations but issued Proclamation 183 of June 3, 2011 declaring June 25th as Day of the Filipino Seafarers. The Dept. of Transportation and Communications (then, DoTC) shall be the lead department through the MARINA as flag State Administrator under the STCW Manila Amendments.

partnerships among marine and maritime stakeholders for the awareness of our distinctly sea-based heritage.

There are side events allied to maritime and maritime resources like the Oceana photo exhibit on Benham Bank at Malacañang in celebrations of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo). Last September 27th, the House of Representatives held an exhibit at the South Wing lobby on the Philippine Rise, led by Rep. Cesar Vergara Sarmiento, in partnership with Oceana.

Hence and officially, we have four celebrations for merchant mariners:

Incumbent President Duterte has not issued any defining proclamation on maritime concerns although perceived as the most sympathetic. At least, and for the moment, his second SONA and continuing liaison with maritime groups and stakeholders are promising signs. If at all, he is positive on MANA MO, an advocacy to raise “awareness on our marine wealth and endowments as well as the challenges and opportunities.”

June 25 – IMO Day of the Seafarers and Day of the Filipino Seafarers

Mana is an Austronesian word for power, effectiveness and authority; in Tagalog, heritage. Executive Secretary and NCWC Chairman Salvador Medialdea says “we are heavenly blessed to possess” mana, emphasizing the importance of

But not much beef, just plenty of talk. And raffles.

Last Sunday of September – National Seafarers Day Third Sunday of September – National Maritime Day Last Friday of September – World Maritime Day

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The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

The Magna Carta has passed the Lower House on third and final reading with a staggering vote of 236-0 vote, so unanimous on House Bill 5685 which is a consolidation of six other bills. Key provisions of the House version are seafarer rights in line with the Maritime Labor Convention of 2006 (MLC) and covers the controversial shipboard training (SBT) of cadets.

By Marino World Editorial Pool

HB 5685 consolidated HB 78 of Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar; HB 457 of Rep. Jesulito Manalo; HB 574 of Rep. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo; HB 1356 of Reps. Karlo Alexei Nograles and Jericho Jonas Nograles; HB 4360 of Rep. Tomasito Villarin; and HB 4525 of Rep. Democrito Mendoza.

Routing.

The House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs transmitted HB 5685 to the Senate on 31 July 2017 for deliberation of a counterpart bill which when also passed in the Senate shall go to the Bicameral Committee (jointly of Senators and Representatives) to resolve any conflict in the version of each Chamber. This is then transmitted to the President for approval or veto.

Should the President sign, it must be published in the Official Gazette and the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) passed by the concerned Executive Department

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Cover Story

MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS before being implemented as a law.

Two other bills allied to SB 314 Magna Carta are pending in the Senate: SB 904 filed 26 July 2016 by Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito and SB 244 filed July 4, 2016 by Senator Loren Legarda.

The snag on SB 314 Magna Carta introduced by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara is on percentage of carrying capacity and wages for cadets on SBT. Carrying capacity.

Angara wants 70% while HB 5685 provides for only 60% for MHEIs to show over the last three years that BSMT or BSMarE cadets are able to secure SBT berths. CHEd with MARINA shall ensure this requirement is met.

Angara’s position could mean closure of some schools which cannot comply; or at best, downgraded into offering just courses for ratings and not BSMT nor BSMarE. Final victims of this “reform” are obviously the students.

Section 22 on Angara’s bill provides for full minimum wage for probationary crew and others similarly situated.

Cadets, On-the-job trainees, apprentices and others who are onboard as part of the completion of academic or training program, shall be provided with allowances of no less than 50% of the minimum wage of regular seafarers.

While this could be implemented on foreign vessels, the domestic fleet is hard-pressed. There is no relief from MARINA and yet the Magna Carta adds expenses on the shipping company for food, lodging, amenities and instructor for the cadets on SBT. True, CHEd allows firms to charge cadets on SBT. After all, the pragmatic reality is students are being secretly charged by cunning ship officials knowing SBT is mandatory and there is a huge shortage of slots. Yet, schools already charge students on the required SBT. If a portion of the fee is not shared to ship operators, then these are double whammies against hapless cadets.

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Main author, Sen. Angara

Mariners’ rep, Manalo of Angkla

PAMI President Felix Oca during the Movement for Maritime Phils (MMP) Convenors meeting claims such order for allowance will worsen the resistance of companies to accept cadets on board. Oca agrees with the stipend but must be on the owners’ discretion and not by a specific percentage in law.

Long overdue.

MARINA has not updated the industry since Administrator Marcial Amaro III reported about 200 Philippine flagged vessels are cheating on taxes and refuse cadets for SBT. Amaro made the revelation in a closed-door meeting before the formal start of the 42nd Convention and Elections of Officers of Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI), held February 10-11 at Malayan Colleges, Laguna.

Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade was present when Amaro reiterated his expose’ in his speech on the theme, “MARINA Updates on Policies for MET and Shipboard Training.”

Based on the STCW Convention, a minimum of 500 gross tonnage ships may be allowed for SBT. CHEd requires 12 months of SBT after finishing either BSMT or BSMarE. On validation of MARINA on ship measurements, it discovered frauds: • To lower taxes, measurements are decreased; • Being “unqualified,” owners are exempt from MLC orders on wages, insurance and provision of cabin, among amenities similar to other on-the-job training (OJT).

MARINA plans to issue a circular ordering each vessel to accommodate two SBT cadets, at least. This is not of choice but mandatory.

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Reactions.

When are these to be implemented, asks MATS College Eric Henry Alterado. Amaro responded quite frankly there is no timeframe yet as he has just assumed office and they have only 70 inspectors, auditors and surveyors to go over 6,000 ships.

Before, local classification societies measure the vessels. But so much connivance are done to cheat government thus MARINA took over the function but hampered with lack of personnel and experts.

Eutiquio Reyes, Jr. of Our Lady of Fatima University suggested MARINA to re-evaluate or investigate circumstances with the help of victimized students forced to undergo twice the 12-month process to no fault of theirs.

Westbay College Pres. Benito Chiongbian suggested a matrix for vessels of 500-1000 gross tons allowing one Deck cadet and one Engine cadet and increasing as growth allows.

Amaro says he will take into advisement the proposals of Reyes and Chiongbian since MARINA is the agency that issues safe manning certificates.

Michael Esplago, MARINA Maritime Education and Training Standards Supervisor confirms the agency tried a circular mandating shipowners to board cadets but it did not pass allegedly being “burdensome” to shipowners.

Training ships.

C/E Alfredo Haboc, CHEd Ad Hoc Committee for SBT says, “Ship as the best training center.” He then jabs on MARINA for doing nothing in support of Philippine flagged vessels.

SBT program is comprehensive with various components --- so many questions still not answered. Bottom line, SBT is about molding competent seafarers and officers. Haboc hopes for better

MARINA‘s Amaro, DOTr Sec Tugade and PAMI things when students return to school with the new CMO of CHEd 70.

There is no update on the claim of Amaro at the PAMI Convention that the Korean Maritime University (KMU) is donating two vessels capable of 200 cadets each for training. At most, the iconic line of “continuing negotiations” between MARINA and KMU. Verbiage.

Both House and Senate versions provide: a. Regulate the operation of all educational and training institutions offering courses related to seafaring

on their wish or will.

(Atty Ban-eg has missed training ships other than T/S Oca. There is T/S Zammar jointly owned by Zamboanga Maritime Center and Harbor Shipping Services; T/S Pilipinas, formerly T/S Deckman, as featured in Tinig ng Marino. Whether T/S Pilipinas became operational or not, the raging issue is on SBT having to be paid by students rumored as high as P180k per year!)

Another training ship has been moored at Manila Bay, allegedly due to change of ownership from Phil Maritime Institute (PMI) to a new buyer and shall be renamed.

b. Pursue grant programs such as scholarships, subsidies, loan assistance and other measures that will harness the skills of Filipino seafarers toward greater competitiveness given to new demands in the industry; and

Last August, MAAP’s Diofonce Tunacao submitted to Cong. Manalo a study on acquisition and operation of training ships. As of press time, nothing has been issued on the status of the proposal which could alleviate SBT complexities.

c. Promote quality maritime education and training that respond to the needs of the industry and within minimum international maritime standards of competency.

No fees.

HB 5685 Section 7 provides “No fee or other charges shall be imposed on cadets, interns, apprentices, on-the-job-trainees or other persons similarly situated.

Asked by Marino World after her meeting with PAMI last October 5, MARINA STCW-OIC Executive Director Joy Vera Ban-eg “no guidelines nor circulars” yet on SBT. Ban-eg says we have no training ships except the T/S Oca of the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP). MARINA looks at sea service (like Certificates on Competency-CoC), CHEd on the details of SBT. Hence, MARINA limits circular on shipboard familiarization; CHEd should take over on accreditation, guidelines on training ships/operators.

Again, the bureaucratic tugs-of-war hit hard on students who will have to comply whenever any of the regulatory agencies fancy to act

In conflict, there is a CHEd CMO on “Revised Implementing Guidelines on the Approved Seagoing Service Requirement” for the conferment of BSMT and BSMarE that states “fees for board and lodging may be collected as may be agreed upon by the MHEI and the shipping companies subject CHEd policies, standards and guidelines.

Yet, even C/E Haboc of CHEd admits this CMO is contrary to DoLE Order 129 Series of 2013 on “Rules and Regulations Governing the Employment and Working Conditions of Seafarers Onboard Ships Engaged in Domestic Shipping.”

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Dr. Oca of PAMI

CHEd Haboc

Haboc straddles the fence by qualifying DoLE 129 is “an ideal policy” but impractical. Students suffer because there are not enough berths; shipowners confused whether they can charge on board and lodging during SBT. At the Maritime Forum on Human Capital Sector of the MMP, C/E Chiongbian proposed using OWWA funds as loans to cadets to pay the cost of SBT. Moratorium.

At the Usapang STCW of September 20 at the Midas Hotel, Haboc announced “First of all, it is now open for business, establishing new MHEIs (meaning, the moratorium on opening new maritime schools is over). Ergo, MARINA sanctions competitions rather than support for smaller schools to survive chopping off the limited market (already depressed by the K12 program). .

Atty Ban-eg amplifies, “We are here not to close down schools.”

Instead, Ban-eg claims they are to assist for schools to align with MARINA’s MIDP 10-Year roadmap. Schools are pivotal on addressing problems on education, competency, confidence, qualifications.

ELSP. CHEd Ellen Fernandez at the Usapang STCW held August 24 reports on status of MHEIs, viz:

MHEIS BSMT BSMARE

Prior 91 82 76

July 2016 77 70 64

Mar 7, 2017 55 51 43

The second reclassification, factoring in SBT, made some institutions failed to comply goading them to make appeals to the technical panel. Some were granted but the final list is yet to be released with “finality” as the final, final, final list (on usual government ambivalence).

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The Enhanced Support Level Program is for ratings which some maritime schools are offering, unable to comply with current regulations and requirements. Some dropped their BSMT and BSMarE degrees and concentrated on ESLP; others added the ELSP to get more students.

Such remedial measures to cope up is now a problem: CHEd is abolishing ESLP earlier claimed as a modified program aimed to produce qualified ratings for shipboard employment (again, criticized as an alternative for MHEIs who cannot comply with the carrying capacity). There are also views ESLP is to please the European Union audit (EMSA) as our internal “reform.”

CHEd circulars, memoranda and orders are easy to amend or repeal.

But should The Magna Carta be passed into law--- we need another law to amend/repeal this one barely born. If this is not parody, it is the ultimate in black humor.

Technical.

STCW Advisory No. 2017-14 suspends/terminates ESLP in maritime education with the full implementation of the Senior High School–Maritime Program (SHS-MP) of DepEd’s K-to-12 Program, ordering: 1. By 01 October 2017, ESLP for Marine Deck and Marine Engineering is suspended/terminated; 2. MHEIs offering ESLP are to cease from accepting new students under the ESLP; 3. Those already taking-up the ESLP prior to 01 October 2017 may complete the academic requirements until 31 May 2019; earn the required seagoing service not later than 31 December 2020 to be considered by MARINA for certification as Ratings Forming Part of a Watch under the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended, subject to other requirements;

Reyes of Our Lady of Fatima 4. ESLP providers not yet authorized to give SHS-MP shall comply with requirements of the Joint DepEd Memorandum and STCW Circular 1 Series of 2016; and 5. Those failing to comply may be liable to a prohibited act under Section 8.3.8 of the IRR of Republic Act 10635.

Unwittingly, CHEd may have confined Pinoy seafarers to ratings, solidifying the sad trend that only 10% of BSMT and BSMarE holders aspire or become officers.

Rational voice.

MARINA Deputy Director Ban-eg waves the flag for a common reform with maritime stakeholders, asking for inputs and critiques for a joint decision on priorities and doables. Ban-eg is quoted “You have to decide, we have to decide together” in exploring opportunities in the reported shortage of ratings and officers.

Atty. Ban-eg is wary: “We have graduates who cannot comply with the shipboard training. As far as education is concerned, is there a need for us to create new courses, to develop new courses to address the maritime industry. For example, how are you going to modernize our domestic fleet without the necessary manpower…how about port operations.”

Thinking aloud, Ban-eg says CHEd should consider a bridging program for those graduates unable to board to be able now to meet that gap in the employment or needs of other maritime sectors like shipmanagement, cruise shipping, the likes as “compromises” since the current trend is education as a means for livelihood, not a philosophical pursuit.

Timeline.

The ISPS Code has been downloaded to MARINA but it is unable to implement due to lack of personnel and a policy/interpretation deadlock with the Office of Transport Security.

Westbay Chiongbian Stakeholders must input to streamline MARINA’s 10-Year MIDP, particularly in such issues as fishing, manpower, technical skills and allied expertise like drafting, welding, the likes, boosted in the K12 curriculum.

She insists on timeline after the talkies. Ironic, the MIDP Workshop on Maritime Manpower was sparsely attended because MARINA changed the date to September 26th, right smack the PAMI General Assembly at AMOSUP facilities.

Another try is scheduled October 19th, this time with major movers of MHEIs, to resolve conflicts and synchronization of CHEd-STCWMARINA, even revision of the IRR. Communication is sought and opened --- just “pick the right love language,” Atty. Ban-eg perks.

Recap.

It is a given government and legislators mean well for advancing changes. But they should visit well proposals that while idealistic, fall short of the intended results. This could be avoided by strict and compelling dialogue with maritime practitioners to provide the realities on the field as against the podium --- and mandate proactively.

Be wary of knee-jerk reactions that mock policy like the genre of Italian spaghetti cowboys producing a merry mix of the good, the bad and the ugly in field implementation.

Authorities must guard against sweeping changes like just closing schools which cannot cope with new provisions. A considerate throw-back would establish they, too, have produced outstanding crew and officers plying international waters.

And our youth, are we pushing them to the bottom, mandating a culture of rejects by “alternative” courses that limit, that frustrate bigger dreams?

Hence, the defining question: quo vadis, Cadets?

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(L-R) Capt. Dimitris Kalantidis, CMM Marine Safety Manager; RINA Academy stalwarts, Ms. Danna Ocado -MIS Manager, Capt. Nicolo Terrei-GM, Ms Michela Terrei, daughter.

RINA ACADEMY PHILIPPINES

BAGS SAFETY4SEA TRAINING AWARD 2017 A

n evening ahead of the formal opening of Safety4Sea Conference and Awards in Greece, RINA Academy Philippines Inc. was announced as the winner for the prestigious Training Award.

RINA Academy Philippines Inc. was chosen for quality training, introducing a Competence Management System to continuously assess and train seafarers, shore-based personnel and staff through a Career Development Plan.

Honour ceremonies proceeded October 3, 2017 at the posh Yatch Club of Greece in Athens.

Other five award categories are: • Dry Bulk Operator, for any ship operator of bulk carriers, or general dry cargo vessels that demonstrated safety excellence and performance above average • Tanker Operator, to any ship operator of oil or chemical tankers, or gas carriers that demonstrated safety excellence and performance above average.

• Sustainability, to any organization that contributed towards sustainable shipping • Technology, to any organization that provided a significant technological achievement or breakthrough or significant contribution in any aspect of maritime safety activity • Initiative, to any organization or association that sparked, realized, or significantly contributed in any initiative fostering safer and sustainable shipping

In accepting the recognition from peers, Captain Nicolo Terrei confirmed that “RINA Academy Philippines Inc was established not just to follow STCW fundamentals but to fulfil competency gaps and enhance the seafarer’s skills. (This), by providing an innovative assessment and training through advance technology in line with the modern shipping industry.

It has been 10 years now that our company started to be an organization bridging the dynamic shipping industry, marine universities and learning institutions around the world. Starting with only 300 trainees, to 6000 of seafarers being trained for the In-house courses and other accredited specific simulator training.”

Captain Terrei could claim that RINA Academy continuously provides excellent maritime services for customer satisfaction, following statutory and regulatory requirements within national and international standards and other applicable requirements.

Criteria.

The Safety4Sea Training Award is given to an organization that provides a significant achievement or breakthrough or significant contribution in any aspect of maritime training.

In a cusp, the Safety4Sea Awards are for fostering the Safety Excellence & Sustainable Shipping.

There is an on-line nomination process open to industry stakeholders. Within the months before the Conference, parties may vote via relevant form at dedicated award page. Shortlisted nominees are announced a week before the event, and the winners declared for each category during the welcome reception & award ceremony, the evening ahead of the Safety4Sea Conference and Awards.

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Phil Life Saving Equipment

PLSE MARKET LEADER ON SAFETY O

n a roll in its market lead on safety equipment, Phil Life Saving Equipment (PLSE) adds two more institutions in its growing and loyal clientele: the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) in Tacloban City and the St. Therese MTC Colleges (STMTC) in Iloilo.

CHED since these agencies started reclassifications of schools to be aligned with the expectations of the European Union’s EMSA audit.

NMP continues to upgrade facilities and provide maritime trainings required by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch-Keeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention, with the Manila amendments, to improve Filipino seafarers for employment and competitiveness.

AMOSUP. Last June 28th, the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union (AMOSUP) made good its pledge to donate to NMP BVClass approved 20-men free fall lifeboat with davit. As expected, NMP relied on PLSE to supply the facility for trainees taking the certification on Proficiency on Survival Crafts and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSCRB).

ST-MTC requires the PLSE equipment to maintain being consistent in the prestigious “White List” of both MARINA and

The important donation was facilitated by Dr. Conrado Oca, AMOSUP president and member of the NMP board.

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NMP is the only government maritime training and research institution, attached to the Dept. Labor and Employment (DOLE) and located at Barangay 97, Cabalawan, Tacloban City.

Steady.

In 2015, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) proposed to make NMP purely a research institution on its report, The Urgent Development Study on the Project on Rehabilitation and Recovery from Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines – General Grant Aid Project).

While the idea was endorsed by the Maritime Authority (MARINA), a group of Eastern Visayas Congressmen blocked

St. Therese MTC Colleges cadets on Transas training bridge simulator

the implementation, relates NMP Executive Director Romulo Bernardes.

MARINA seems to covet NMP, claims Bernardes in a press statement at the conference held by Ports Authority (PPA) on last September 25th. He believes a law, not a mere Executive Order, could mandate any transfer as NMP was created by Presidential Decree 1369.

PLSE. This safety equipment provider services maritime schools, training centers, shipping companies and government agencies like the NMP, Coast Guard, the Depts. of Defense and Environment and Natural Resources.

Signature safety equipment from PLSE is the Viking davit-launched and throwoverboard liferafts. The full inventory includes liferaft, rescue boat, rigid hull inflatable boats, rubber boat, davits, fender, fire fighting equipment, immersion suits, emergency evacuation systems, life jackets, ringbouy, life saving appliances, respiratory equipment, chemical protection, parsun

outboards, publications and yachting.

PLSE services include installation and commissioning of lifeboat and davits, liferaft annual inspection, augmented by professional training and allied marine services.

Transas.

A major offering is the construction and design of Full Mission Bridge Simulators; installation and commissioning of TRANSAS Simulator based on International standards.

PLSE is the exclusive distributor for Transas advanced technical solutions and systems in the Philippines and the Pacific Region (Papua New Guinea and Marshall Island).

PLSE President Mary Rose Molina has even introduced a unique marketing approach, client-friendly instead of legalistic. PLSE offers assistance for client victimized by fake products and faked solutions rather than take legal remedies on its business interest.

Clients.

PLSE is a specialist on lifesaving maritime apparatus, world-graded, weather and incident-tested in blue waters of the globe.

Small wonder, PLSE is patronized by majors like Magsaysay Training Institute, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific, PHILCAMSAT and Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation-Canaman.

Valued clients also include Midway Maritime Foundation, Cristal-E College, University of Cebu, Visayan Maritime Academy Training Center, WSP Maritime Training Center, RINA Maritime Academy, and more on line.

Among the latest are St. Therese MTC Colleges and "K" Line Maritime Academy which acquired state-of-the-art simulators to provide quality education to develop technical and professional competencies.

PLSE holds offices at the 8th floor of Dohle Haus-Manila, 30-38 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, San Isidro, Makati City.

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OUR POINTS OF VIEW “THE CHIP & THE OLD BLOCK” RADM ADONIS B. DONATO & MS. CHERI MARIE D. VILLASIN Chairman & Vice Chair, OSM Maritime Services

Journey to Health and Finance

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n this fast-paced times, extreme pressure and stress plague our everyday life. Negativity of mindset, disillusionment, struggles to keep up with the ever-changing world, economic and political issues, insurgence --- all create mental tension, pose a threat to stability. Immense exposure to these often bring about ailments, emotional and psychological breakdown, physical incapacities to work, loss of a job, deterioration of personal relationships and failures in life.

on Health; the afternoon, on Wealth. Experts in these fields shared valuable inputs as on Health, Dr. Romy Paredes, Dr. Christian “Didoy” Lubaton, Dr. Michael Allen “Pao”Tongson, Mr. Marc Lopez, Ms. Mary Angeli Pepito, Sr. Maria Margarita Manigque and Ms. Karla Monica Cenido. For Wealth, speakers were: Mr. Eduardo “Ardy” Robert Jr., Ms. Miriam QuiambaoRoberto, Mr. Kermith Uberas, Ms. Eva Lacea and Mr. Joselito Un.

Our seafarers who labor long and hard, working hundreds and thousands of miles away from their families over a period of 5 months or so become more susceptible to illnesses, depression, homesickness, hypertension that at the extreme end could be fatal and life-threatening. In addition, a drastic change in financial capability most often triggers anxiety and excitement over an influx of earnings that could also be detrimental to the economic situation of the family if no information campaigns to raise awareness have been given to the seafarers or his family on financial literacy mainly budgeting, saving and investing.

The Health talk highlighted self-love and self-care are not selfish as these are primary responsibility to oneself, to one’s significant others and to the Creator. The key to a healthy life is in each person’s hands. The best doctor we can have is ourselves. The real secret on how to be healthy is already built-in in each of us. We need to listen to what our body is telling us. The “message” sent by a sick body may either mean lack of nourishment or toxicity or both. If that is the case, then nourish or detox oneself or both. Being healthy does not just dwell on the physical health. A person’s health is the total of the well-being of aspects of his life and these, too, should be balanced, nurtured and healthy.

In July of 2017, OSM conducted the Health & Wealth Seminar in seven venues for the 10 local chapters of the OSM Seafarers Family Club: Manila, Central Luzon, South Luzon, Bacolod, Bicol, Bohol, Cebu, Cagayan De Oro, Iloilo and Davao. Response was overwhelming,attendance totalled1,200.

The seminar sprouted from OSM vision of seafarers and their families living a happy, healthy, prosperous and contented life.

The whole-day seminar was halved: the morning session 18

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The Wealth talk emphasized the importance of managing one’s earnings intelligently applying the strategies: save, give, get out of debt, live a simple life, be enterprising, invest and educate oneself. An equation could also be applied before spending to ensure a wise allocation of money: Income - Savings = Expenses.

The journey to good health and preservation of wealth is priceless so it should be looked after with utmost care.

Deckhand, John Manginsay, Dr. Esguerra

Government

MARINA EMPOWERS

By Ligaya Caban

Atty. Ban-eg highlights MARINA efforts

A

rarely seen move, holistic and surprising from a government agency --- that’s the defining package from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in hosting the year’s maritime week with industry stakeholders and regulatory agencies.

Three fora lead the professional workshops, viz: • Usapang STCW Forum --- (1) Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel, June 26; (2)Heritage Hotel, August 24; (3) Midas Hotel, July 21; (4) same venue, September 20.

• MIDP Maritime Manpower workshop at Midas Hotel, September 26.

• Republic Act 10635 IRR Revisions, City Garden Hotel, Manila, October 4.

This October, MARINA has separate meetings with the Maritime Higher Educational Institutions (MHEIs) and the Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs). These are augmented with parallel meetings in the Visayas and Mindanao.

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Atty. Joy Vera Ban-eg leads the fora, as MARINA STCW-OIC Executive Director and concurrently, MARINA Deputy Director.

Ban-eg was Coordinator of Kalayaan Atin Ito Movement, a group launched May 15, 2015 to protect Philippine rights on Kalayaan Islands.

The activists, mostly youth, also sailed December of the year to disputed Spratly Islands led by ExComm. Nick Faeldon, Bureau of Customs.

The lady lawyer proposes, “Let us sit down together” and plan for the future of merchant mariners. She calls for concrete action, not just “drawing” (street slang for empty talk) but consensual expectations with timelines.

“You have to decide, we have to decide together” as Ban-eg encourages stakeholders to submit / present proposals, suggestions, position papers; there are no “right or wrong, all ideas are acceptable.”

While MARINA has structured the framework, MARINA will not singularly decide, Atty. Baneg assures. Instead, “it will be a listening time, we

will listen to all of you” for what is best and doable within time and common resources.

As she searches for the “right love language,” Atty. Ban-eg cites themes of the national events: Connecting ships, ports and people (IMO World Maritime Day) and Water that surrounds us, unites us (Maritime Week).

In essence, “Be proactive, get the attention of everyone. Remind the leadership we are a maritime nation, that we should be the priority of the government (as) maritime is the most important manpower in this country” that will solve poverty and unemployment, to prosper as a maritime nation.

MIDP. MARINA launched the 10-Year Maritime Industry Development Program (MIDP) 2018-2028 in the celebrations of its 43rd Anniversary at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, June 1st.

Administrator Marcial Amaro III admits MIDP is in pursuant to Presidential Decree 474 of June 1, 1974 by Pres. Marcos which also created MARINA. Section 5 mandates MARINA to “prepare and

annually update a 10-Year Maritime Industry Development Program… (to) contain a rational and integrated development” for the approval of The President.

Amaro underscores “MARINA is not only a regulatory body governing the maritime industry but also created to help develop the industry.”

Council.

MARINA created an Advisory Council from a cross-sector of the industry: Atty Dolly OhdatePresident, Asiana Shipmanagement; Capt. Emerico B. Gepilano- CREST Assessment, Review & Training; Capt. Ronald Enrile- PTC Shipping / ANGKLA; Capt. Jess Morales -President, Integrated Seafarers (ISP); Capt. Jun Arcellana- Owners Rep, Norden Shipmanagement; Mr. Emmanuel De Vera – GM, Wilhelmsen Shipmanagement; Engr. Sammy Lim- Chairman, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.

Volunteers.

Ban-eg seeks pro-bono volunteers with expertise as MARINA is short on personnel. While MARINA collects fees, all these are funneled to the public

Committed to maritime and the future.

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coffer and only Congress decides on what budget MARINA may spend in undertaking responsibilities of the agency.

The Dept. of Budget Management (DBM) prepares the budget for Congress to study, critique and traditionally pass. Congress may slash but it cannot increase the DBM-Presidential proposal. Atty. Baneg thinks DBM and The President are not convinced on the importance of the maritime sector in the national economy.

Hence, the need to “dramatize,” convince The President maritime is the solution to poverty “because only us can connect the 7,600 islands.

Education, training, licensing is on us” but we are seldom heard and “magmamakaawa (plead) and at times, papahiyain (embarrassed) when asking for more appropriation to undertake official tasks, Baneg observes.

Blockades.

MARINA has to wrestle with technicalities. So much changes are required by the STCW with Manila Amendment coming into force. While personnel could multi-task, the limited staff can only do so much in a full day. And if the budget is not spent, it returns to the General Fund, not

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overstay with MARINA for use when needed.

In answer, MARINA obligates unspent funds to the regional level to retain money for MARINA to use on added personnel and activities. This technique risks technical malversation. Also, hiring is not that easy as civil service requires so many credentials; forcing the growing usage of “job orders” as contractual tenure for specific duties.

On this solution comes two blockades: (1) Government policy to stop contractualization or Endo (slang for end-of-contract) and (2) DBM states no more job orders for 2018 but STCW alone is manned by 90% job orders.

Last September, a pittance of 63 plantilla positions were authorized, but really a job order having no security nor benefits, similar to volunteers from the private sector.

The maritime sector is represented in the Lower House by an elected PartyList, ANGKLA. Its first nominee is Atty. Jesulito A. Manalo with whom MARINA has been working well. Manalo could convince DBM and the House Appropriation Committee to give more, he being a respected Senior Member of the Camara Baja (House of Representatives).

Event

Federation of Fiestas

THE PHILIPPINE MARITIME WEEK Competitions bring the excitement, the dazzle that organizers would kill for.

This truism is reflected on this year’s maritime celebrations, no more as aptly described as bongga, the street word for the great and the gaudy. MARINA captains this year’s events, then alternating yearly with the Coast Guard and then, the Ports Authority of Manila and Cebu.

For starter, there are two fora in two venues: the one-day forum at Midas Hotel and full load at the PICC for another forum, courtesy raffles, quiz bee and exhibit and fellowship at night). Over 80 exhibitors participated, entrance free-of-charge as MARINA picked the tab.

The sky over the Quirino Grandstand was lit with aerial fireworks, as folks were treated to a free musical concert courtesy of Smart, the telco.

Associations and individuals were cited for meaningful contributions to the industry during the Recognition Night that followed. MARINA Administrator Marcial Amaro III led senior officials of the Authority in presenting the awards. Never a dull moment for aside from the excitement of the awardees, the guests were entertained by top-rate event professionals.

Administrator Amaro was the principal speaker at the

22nd National Seafarer Day, ushered in by a parade and awarding of outstanding maritime students, oratorical and art contest winners.

Arguably, this National Maritime Week is a benchmark of all celebrations since 1996. There were so many activities, even to the regional levels in parallel with that of MARINA, also in collaboration (often on initiative) with private maritime stakeholders.

Next year.

Year 2018, celebrations are to be led by the National Coast Watch Council (NCWC) under the Office of the President reporting directly to the Executive Secretary.

Of course, MARINA and other government agencies are expected to pitch in, given NCWC expertise is on security and less on maritime industry overview.

Opinions appear split; some doubt whether NCWC could organize events relevant to most concerns of the industry. Others are optimistic core issues will reach faster presidential attention as NCWC is mandated to report one month after the celebrations.

While President Ramos in 1996 “broke the ice” on maritime concerns, experts are almost unanimous presidential interventions have been on form rather than on substance.

Proclamations address basically on who leads on what date, often reactions rather than proactive to the demands of maritime industry on domestic operations and international competitiveness. It is almost just crossing the T’s and merely skin-deep for public consumption.

The usually rational cover-all-bases mentality is suspect as hodge-podge in reality. Duterte proclaims “Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month,” oozing with nationalism and cultural pride with NCWC as overseer.

His Proclamation 316 of 14 September 2017 “synchronizes” the National Maritime Day, International Coastal Clean-up Day and Fish Conservation Week transferring the latter from the third week of October to the third week of September, almost right smack National Maritime Day or slightly before the World Maritime Day (by amending Proclamation 176-Series of 1963).

NCWC Secretariat U/Sec Jose Luis Alano

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Makati Showroom at Edison, Brgy. San Isidro.

LALIZAS, global leader in marine equipment is now finally in the Philippines, accrediting ALCOR Lifesaving Services as their authorized distributor here.

For almost four decades, the firm designs, manufactures and distributes a range of marine equipment, headquartered in Greece, home of shipping magnates.

ALCOR - Authorized Philippine Distributor

LALIZAS EQUIPMENT NOW IN PH www. alcor.com.ph

ALCOR has opened the LALIZAS distributorship September of this year after being accredited by Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to supply lifesaving equipment for the domestic shipping. A supplier must be accredited by the regulatory agency, otherwise both buyer and supplier may be penalized by MARINA under strict maritime laws.

LALIZAS is known for its tagline, “Simply life saving.” ALCOR comes with its own, “Safety is not compromised.”

ALCOR Lifesaving Services, Inc. assures 90% of their offerings are from LALIZAS, supplementing the 10% from China for items not made by LALIZAS. First-hand tested.

Capt. Limocon says, “We are using a lot of these equipment being in the maritime sector”. Having used so many brands, Capt.

Limocon knows which are reliable and durable, which are priced fairly. With this knowledge, they decided to enter the line to also save time, control quality, speed-up supply and grow with the LALIZAS brand.

ALCOR captured also the market for the Filipino-owned NEWSIM which provides modern facilities for upgrading maritime skills and

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Capt. Limocon checks on details. assessment of competence for seafarers. It has trained thousands in a network of training facilities in Makati, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu and Davao and practical training sites in Sariaya, Quezon and Talisay, Cebu.

about 10,000 various marine equipment, life saving equipment, miscellaneous items related to sea sports. And these are made under the strictest control for highest quality, but maintaining competitive prices.

ALCOR is bullish on the market, targeting foreign vessels visiting Philippine ports, domestic shipping, maritime schools, maritime training centers, government agencies, yacht and resort owners.

Even the airline industry.

Production is under ISO 9001 verification, exceeding standards set by international bodies like Germanischer Lloyd, Bureau Veritas, Lloyd’s Register, among others.

Showcase.

The showroom is strategically located at the ground floor of 2053 Building on Edison Street at Barangay San Isidro in Makati City, Philippines.

Staff has been trained on the service and familiarization of the equipment. Anytime as product inventory grows, a Service Station may be opened in tandem with LALIZAS. The source.

LALIZAS is a global brand on marine life-saving equipment, manufacturing these for almost four decades with distribution in 129 countries, at least. It leads the European marine market, more so with Greek ship owners who demand reliable products which may spell the difference between harm, life or death.

Not surprising, LALIZAS has sold over 15.5-million life jackets in its 35 years, undisputed in the boating industry and expanding to the recreational and commercial sectors with millions of discriminating but loyal clients.

After all, LALIZAS designs, manufactures and distributes

The choice.

Arguably, LALIZAS is the priority choice of shipping firms, shipyards, boat builders, suppliers, marine equipment retail outlets, marinas, boat hiring businesses, sailing clubs and individuals in the know. For on top of satisfaction, customers get the assurance of safety --- safety as primary reason for LALIZAS products.

Business for LALIZAS is not merely for corporate interest but commitment to client satisfaction.

There are no secrets in achieving the goal, just the classic policy triumvirate: customized service, deals monitored, after-sales support.

Products.

Name it, LALIZAS carries: life rafts and accessories, lifejackets and accessories, lifebuoy rings, lights and accessories, immersion suits, breathing devices and firefighting equipment, navigation and lifeboat equipment, IMO signs and tapes.

As reliable source for product requirement, visit www.alcor.com.ph and lalizas.com

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MARINA and Cebu Gems execs with TOMSP Winners

CEBU GEMS SUPPORTS TOMSP

C

apt. Juan Antoine Dela Torre showed in concrete terms support on the project, Ten Outstanding Maritime Students of the Philippines (TOMSP), by handing to the winners the certificates for a P35,000 full review scholarship which may be availed in any of the 60 Cebu Gems Innovation and Career Development Centers.

This was during the 22nd National Seafarers’ Day last September 24th at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City, Metro Manila. Capt. Dela Torre was assisted by MARINA Administrator Marcial Amaro III and Fr. Paulo Prigol, AOS Director.

Pacific-IMMAJ 6. Loren C. Nagapatan, Maritime Academy of Asia and the PacificIMMAJ 7. Patrick Allan V. Peralta, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific- CGSO Campus 8. Karl Japeth G. Rosal, Maritime Academy of Asia and the PacificCGSO Campus 9. John Michael C. Ibanez, University of Cebu-Lapu Lapu and Mandaue 10. Honey Grace S. Ysulan,Philippine Merchant Marine Academy

The gesture is part of the Christian commitment of “Thy Will be done,” the core value of Cebu Gems --- a business so successful fueled by an abiding faith, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me” (Philippians 4:13).

TOMSP recognizes and encourages the hard work and education of future mariners; nominees must have shown excellence in academics, competent in practice, good moral standing and active engagement in serving the community.

The center was conceptualized in September 2009 by a group of serious and dedicated maritime practitioners. They agreed to team up for safety of life and property at sea through quality training.

To walk the talk, Cebu Gems was established in 2010, starting with barely ten reviewers.

From 26 schools, 56 were nominated, 20 were shortlisted for the 10 winners.

But just after seven years, it has now 60 branches.

2017 TOMSP. All awardees took BS Marine Transportation except Eugene Mark L. Genilsa who took BS Marine Engineering. Winners of the 7th Western Union TOMSP are: 1. Dionel L. Alfaro, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies 2. Ronald Christ A. Capindo, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation -Bacolod 3. Janine H. Elican, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation-Bacolod 4. Eugene Mark L. Genilsa, JBL Colleges Foundation Maritime University-Molo 5. Nellyvette Claire B. Dela Cruz, Maritime Academy of Asia and the

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The criteria and value points: 50% Panel Interview; 15% Examination Score; 15% On-the-Spot Essay Writing Score and 20% Extra Curricular and Community Involvement for a total of 100%.

Winners are aso evaluated on expertise in theoretical and practical application of Western Union and Filipino core values, along the four pillars of Maritime Law. Each TOMSP finalist received P15,000, an honor plaque and gifts from other project partners.

Five composed the Panel of Judges: Engr. Mike Marasigan (Research and Development Manager/Assessor, Seaquest Maritime Training); Capt. Rodolfo Estampador (President, Conference of Maritime Manning Agencies); Mr. Aries Gamboa (Manager, Western Union Financial Services); Atty. Dennis Gorecho (Seafarer Dept. Head, Sapalo, Velez, Bundang, Bulilan Law Offices) and Rev. Fr. Paulo Prigol (Director & Chaplain, Apostleship of the Sea).

Team 5, Grand Winner with CMET Bitor and Cebu Gems Jimenez

Another Cebu Gems Project

MARITIME TEAM QUIZ BEE A

n annual Maritime Team Quiz Bee has been sponsored and organized by the Cebu Gems Innovation and Career Development Center.

The new approach to a popular contest is another public service of Cebu Gems, acknowledged Pambansang Review Center ng Mga Marino (national review center of mariners).

It was launched September 25th at the Balagtas campus auditorium of Mapua-PTC College of Maritime Education and Training, Malayan Colleges, in Binan, Laguna.

Jo-mari “JM” Hieras was the Quiz Master, lively and impressive as he joked and reached out to both contestants and audience. Hieras was one of 2013 Ten Outstanding Maritime Students (TOMSP) and 2014 Ten Outstanding Students (TOSP) Foundation for Region III. Hieras also prepared the guideline and the questions. On hand to backstop at the event was Ms. Joyce Jimenez, Cebu Gems Operations Manager, with her staff.

Questions unanswered by contestants are thrown to the audience, with corresponding prizes for the correct answers.

Quiz Master Hieras Ms. Jimenez and Rolando V. Bitor, Manager, Quality ManagementCMET Deputy Dean, were beaming as prizes and Certificates of Participation were given.

Teaming.

MCL combined with the Phil Transmarine Carriers (PTC) to form the Mapúa-PTC College of Maritime Education and Training (CMET) to offer a solid and balanced program, content-centered curriculum and skills-based training in seafaring.

Eagled-eyed but excited were Mapua-PTC CMET Administrators, faculty members, CMET alumni. Two judges were from the teaching faculty; one from Deck, the other, Engine.

Through a mix of academic, hands-on trainings and international at-sea exposures, the College aims to produce highly qualified and disciplined maritime professionals with strong loyalty, selfconfidence, leadership and excellence.

Six teams competed, of four members each, two from Deck and two from Engine. Questions were of general knowledge and current events, computation, identification, challenge (skill activity exercises).

While others struggle to qualify, CMET has been consistent on both MARINA and CHEd “Whitelist” of schools eligible to offer BSMarE and BSMT.

These were calibrated into three levels: easy, moderate and difficult.

Capt Armando Ternida, BSMT Program Chair, at his welcome remarks, “It is not only to focus on knowing who will be the best among the best. But I want to personally emphasize that our main objective is to make us aware of your level of readiness in the screening by nominated shipping companies selecting cadets for shipboard training.

Winners.

Team 5, Grand Winner – captained by Ms. Jana Jacinto. They each received honor plaque, gift packs, their reviews for the board exams shouldered by Cebu Gems.

Team 3, First Runner up – gift packs and P5,000 discount gift certificate from Cebu Gems for their review.

Team 2, Second Runner up – gift packs and P3,000 discount gift certificate from Cebu Gems for their review.

You may as well personally evaluate the extent of your knowledge and understanding on theories that are supposed to be known by maritime cadets.”

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Pivotal and Better Shift

TOPMAST FOR IMAGE SOFT T

opmast is barely a year since operating September 25 on the 2016 National Day of the Seafarer. Yet, this trader has bagged a major client --- the New Simulator Center of the Philippines (Newsim), pre-eminent maritime training center in the country.

Topmast started with life-saving equipment and other maritime supplies, then accredited as exclusive Philippine distributor for Image Soft Oy, a leading maritime software developer company from Finland.

Chairman and CEO Joel Espineli of Topmast is excited on the positive and pivotal decision of a lead buyer which also opens more opportunities in the Philippine market.

Mr. Espineli has reasons as Newsim procured its first Image Soft system, a Full-Mission Bridge Simulator with four Mini-Bridges for their Makati training facility. Newsim orders another set for their Iloilo training facility which at present is still under construction.

Newsim’s Capt. Ramil Limocon himself journeyed to Finland, convinced on the efficiency and technical capabilities of the equipment.

since their technical support is based locally.

The team.

To meet Image Soft’s financial requirements, the former group of Ms. Tin Gazo, GM and Chief Marketing Officer; Mr. Jeramel “Bong” Burgos, Technical Manager; Mr. JR Dequina, Chief Technical Officer, tapped and invited Mr. Espineli to be part of a new team that will represent Image Soft Oy to the Philippines. Mr. Espineli came in as a major investor to the company and now sits as Chairman & CEO to Topmast Incorporated.

Espineli is a seasoned businessman. He has been in the service business and consulting practice for over two decades, and most of these years were dedicated to the environmental and services sector, to include wastewater treatment, construction and waste management.

Other maritime schools and training centers appear elated on the Newsim decision to patronize Topmast’s Image Soft being technically advanced, reasonably priced and more user-friendly.

Secured.

Espineli admits he is still learning the ropes in the maritime industry. But he is certain he could contribute to the industry by promoting a very good product such as Image Soft. Having a strong background in engineering from the Mapua Institute of Technology, he can tell that the Image Soft system is very reliable. The primary feature that will make Image Soft standout is software security. It is tightly safeguarded from being cloned or pirated.

Added bonus is the excellent after-sales service from the Topmast Team! They provide free technical support and consultations, with very quick response time

In 2016, the Philippine Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) issued STCW Advisory No. 2016-26 which promotes the Authority’s strict adherence to

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the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines, banning the use of unlicensed, cloned, imitations or pirated simulators and computer based training and other similar equipment. Espineli is surprised to know that even in the very strict and disciplined industry as the maritime and seafaring sector in the Philippines, these issues have become a concern. He is pleased to announce that with Image Soft’s Maritime Vessel Simulators, the training centers and maritime schools can be assured that what they will get is a very secured and safe system.

Image Soft.

This is because Image Soft Maritime Training Simulators create sophisticated, high quality training environments for DNV GL certified maritime training. The product portfolio consists of Full Mission Bridge Simulators, ECDIS, ARPA Radar, Sonar and GMDSS Simulators.

Furthermore, IS Full Mission Bridge Simulator for Arctic Training is the leading solution for maneuvering simulated vessels on ice. Being highly realistic, intuitive, easy to use, open and scalable, Image Soft simulators are ideal for maritime training.

Image Soft has delivered maritime simulator systems to academies in Europe and Asia since 2008 backed by highly-skilled team of experts dedicated to serve.

Flagship.

Technical Manager Burgos is proud of Image Soft’s Arctic Navigation on its

realism. Open water and Arctic simulators are two separate configurations. Yet for Soft Image, the Arctic Navigation is just add-on, allowing simulcast on one system. Image Soft configured the three visuals running on one computer --- unlike other brands defaulted to one-on-one operations which demand more computers raising expenses.

Image Soft Full Mission Bridge Simulator for Arctic Operations is the leading and most realistic solution for training navigation and ship handling on polar waters.

Designed by Finnish experts on different ice scenarios, the key features are: • Modelling – high-quality representation of the vessel and its technical equipment • Equipment – realistic features/reactions in navigation and other control systems • Flexibility – modification according to new ship types and new control systems • Visualization of surroundings – realistic visual and radar representation of archipelago, confined and shallow fairway and ice conditions • Ice and vessel – dynamic calculation of the ice sheet and its interactions • Scaling potential – system expansion/up-scaling suitable for e.g. basic training.

Espineli with Image Soft CEO Matti Suuronen and Aker Arctic JukkaPekka Sallinen

Aker Arctic.

A Topmast and Image Soft resource, Aker Artic Technology is an independent company in development, design, engineering, consulting and testing services for ice-going vessels, icebreakers, offshore marine structures, marine transport solutions and ports. It has experienced, highly qualified and innovative personnel with specialized arctic know-how, as well as innovative, cost-effective and reliable solutions for Arctic development projects.

Aker Artic operates a special test facility in Helsinki.

Combined with the experience and the world’s largest Arctic reference for icebreakers means it brings reliable solutions to customers, always seeking new technologies and working with partners to turn them into successes.

Its references include 60% of all the world’s icebreakers, many Arctic or Antarctic research vessels, and a large variety of cargo vessels and concepts for offshore structures. It has done hundreds of scale model and full-size tests, produced hundreds of reports and studies of operating and transporting goods from the Arctic environment to challenging locations.

With wife Chichi, Topmast CFO and Tin Gazo, Topmast GM

Image Soft CEO Matti Suuronen and his partner from Aker Arctic Technology, with Topmast Incorporated CEO Mr. Joel Espineli, are all attending the CrewConnect Global Conference where they will showcase their IS Full-Mission Bridge Simulator with Ice Navigation for all the participants to witness and try for themselves. They will be in Booth No. 11.

Topmast office and showroom are in Unit 307 3F Coko Building, Patio Madrigal Compound, 2550 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

With partners Bong Burgos and JR Dequina MARINO WORLD

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Honors

Capt. Jasmin Labarda, world-class

Oscar Orbeta, JMG Vice Chair-Internal Affairs

STAKEHOLDERS EARN MARINA AWARDS

By Coca H. Strobar

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) honored 42 individuals and 34 organizations and institutions for outstanding achievements at the 2017 National Maritime Week Recognition Night, September 28 at the Forum of PICC, Manila.

MARINA Administrator Marcial Amaro III boldly claimed, “We have the resources, the experiences and expertise and most importantly, we have you, we have me, we have people. Let’s work together and build our strengths. Capitalize on our maritime assets and be mindful of emerging businesses and disruptive technologies.”

He says the night honors personalities and institutions who have contributed towards uplifting

Ventis Maritime crew 32

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the image and sustaining the development of our maritime industry. Amaro uses the simile of ports, ships and people --- that “… we cannot do anything without you as our partners…”

The awardees Among the Individual category: • Silvano Padillo, John Patrick Alilam, Cyrelle Rowne Casana, Vincent Calubad and Albrence Ceballos of Ventis Maritime Corporation – For rescue at sea • AB Levy Boy Singon and nine other Filipino seafarers of MTM Shipmanagement Singapore – For rescue at sea Their companies, Ventis Maritime, “K” Line Shipmanagement, Next Wave Maritime and MTM Shipmanagement -Singapore also received awards.

•

•

Capt. Jasmin Labarda, first Filipino woman Chief mate on offshore vessel to command vessels of the biggest oil companies of the world Per-Arne Waloen, of the Norwegian Maritime Industry as MARINA Adviser since 2014.

For the Association category: • Filipino Shipowners Association • Phil Interisland Shipping Association • Concerned Metro Manila Tugboat Barge and LCT Owners Association • Supply Chain Management Association of the Phil • Phil Petroleum Sea Transport Association • Phil Association of Maritime Training Centers • Phil Association of Maritime Institutions • Filipino Association for Mariners Employment

Dario Alampay, FSA Chair and Pres.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Joint Manning Group Conference of Maritime Manning Agencies Phil Association of Manning Agencies and Ship Managers Masters and Mates Association of the Phils Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Phils Associated Phil Seafarers Union United Filipino Seafarers Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers Shipyards Association of the Phils Boating Industry Association of the Phils Kaya ng Pinoy (Balangay voyage) Women in Maritime Phils Intl Maritime Association of the Phils Lighterage Association of the Philippines

WIMAPHIL Pres. Merle San Pedro with BoD

• • • • •

Association of Tanker Operators of the Phils Phil RORO Operators Association Visayan Association of Ferry Boat & Coastwise Shipowners Operators Phil Ship Agents Association Manila Harbor Pilot Association

All awardees received recognition plaques and jointly posed for souvenir photo. They enjoined the evening with world-class entertainment and sumptuous dinner.

In winding up, Deputy AdministratorOperations Alfredo Vidal, Jr., says, “This is one of the first of this kind… We all know that we are now moving towards… improving our maritime industry and we all in the government are hoping that the support of our stakeholders will remain.”

AMOSUP Raul Lamug Assistant to the Pres and Jesus Sale, VP-Internal Affairs MARINO WORLD

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MARINO WORLD, 12 YEARS YOUNG!

Bubbly and rarin’, Marino World celebrated 12th Anniversary last September 28th at the Seafarer Center of SM Manila --simultaneous with the World Maritime Day and the National Maritime Week.

The sizzling day was filled with fun, parlor games, raffles and a videoke challenge. The cadets of Marsaman Manning Agency performed dance numbers.

Hosting the event was Ms. Gel Miranda, Net 25 and Marino World Special Project Manager.

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Winners of the on-the-spot Videoke Challenge: 1st – Eloisa Cruz, band member, Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin (Lani Misalucha) 2nd –Kim Dainielle Guillarte, cadet, Pakiusap Lang (Parokya Ni Edgar) 3rd – Ediberto Abacan, AB, My Love Will See You Through (Marco Sison) These golden voices received cash prizes and gift packs from the sponsors: Cebu Gems Review Center, Quantumin Plus, SM Development, Pag-IBIG Fund and Platinum Karaoke.

The UMTC Team

A

THE QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE

journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For United Marine Training Center (UMTC), the journey towards excellence started six years ago when Capt. Walter Wekenborg, former Director of Training and Human Resources of Marlow Navigation Co. Ltd. introduced the concept of benchmarking to then Marlow Navigation Training Center (MNTC).

On March 22-24, 2011, Det Norske Veritas (now Det Norske Veritas-Germanischer Lloyd) carried out a comprehensive benchmarking of MNTC to identify the strengths and areas of improvements in the core areas of center management, course design, course delivery and course assessment in accordance with DNV Seaskill Technical Report 3308: Benchmarking Training Centers. The benchmarking activity was conducted by then DNV General Manager Capt. Sanjeev Soni who found 41 opportunities for MNTC to improve in various areas such as learner assessment, systematic instructional planning, course planning and design, training delivery and course assessment.

The final benchmarking score of 72% posed a huge challenge to the entire organization to leave its comfort zone. Through collaboration and synergism, the management and its team members painstakingly worked together to address all the findings of the first benchmarking activity.

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After three years, MNTC requested DNV to validate the effectiveness of the changes made by the organization according to the recommendations provided by the 2011 DNV benchmarking study. This gap analysis that was conducted last November 5-7, 2014 confirmed that the organization was heading to the right direction and that the commitment of the entire team in its quest for center of excellence was clearly evident as the opportunities to improve were reduced. The analysis showed that certain processes and procedures needed fine tuning, particularly in the areas of documentation control and implementation. It also revealed that major improvements had to be done for the areas of course planning, design and evaluation.

If the benchmarking rating mechanism was used, the achieved score would have been 84%. However, this gap analysis score has been provided for MNTC internal reference only, and not officially verified by DNV-GL governance.

Once again, the entire organization took the same narrow and difficult road towards excellence and went back to the drawing board to address the findings of the gap analysis.

As the company changed its brand name to United Marine Training Center (UMTC), the metamorphosis became more evident as the company continued its pursuit to become

one of the industry’s best maritime training providers in the world today. After another three years of relentless preparation, UMTC look a leap of faith last May 23-25, 2017 and opened its doors to DNV-GL for another benchmarking activity.

The 2017 benchmarking activity was conducted

by Mr. Zainal Abdeen, Principal Consultant, Regional Head of Practice - Safety, Risk and Reliability at DNV-GL. As auditor, Mr. Abdeen recognized the great amount of hard work that UMTC has put into bringing significant improvements in the company’s business processes.

During the 1st UMTC Client Meet and Forum last June 21, 2017, the vision of excellence has turned into reality when Mr. Shengwei Wu, Managing Consultant, Local Head of Practice for DNV-GL Singapore, formally announced that UMTC has been officially recognized by DNV-GL as a Center of Excellence for Maritime Training, which is 4th worldwide, 1st in Southeast Asia and 1st in the Philippines.

The quest for excellence does not end with this remarkable feat. For UMTC, this is only the beginning of a new chapter of its endeavor to provide the highest quality of maritime training to its growing clientele in today’s dynamic maritime industry.

Pilot Class, UMTC execs, MARINA staff

For Passenger Ships

UMTC PILOTS COURSES O

n usual proactive management, United Maritime Training Center (UMTC) conducted pilot classes for the government’s safety training on priority areas last October 10-12, 2017 at its training facility in Ermita, Manila. These specialized trainings were Direct Service to Passengers in Passenger Spaces, Ship Crowd Management and Human Behavior.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) confirms the significance of UMTC’s project based on the public remarks of Ms. Presca Lee Lugo, MARINA Supervisor on Maritime Education & Training Standards. Ms. Lugo says, “We are very fortunate for UMTC allowing us MARINA to have this opportunity for assisting us in developing this course.”

She even congratulated UMTC, assuring her sentiments carry the recognition of the MARINA STCW Office and OIC Exec Director Vera Joy Ban-eg for UMTC being the first training provider to develop and offer a complete course package in the pilot classes.

Ms. Lugo is understandably elated as she leads the development of MARINA model courses to streamline the accreditation system of Maritime Education and Training (MET) in the country. MARINA has called on the private sector to help develop the package for the 28 courses.

It may be recalled that MARINA issued the terms of reference (ToR) for these courses to UMTC and other training centers last July 21, 2017 at the Usapang STCW Forum, the agency’s official program that discusses the concerns of the maritime manpower industry on administrative and policy implementation of the administration.

Reference.

Supervisor Lugo claims that the Philippines is the one taking the lead in the development of IMO model courses for passengers on STCW Standards of Training, Watchkeeping and Certification, particularly based on amendments in November 25, 2016.

Resolution MSC.417(97) was adopted on the same date, more on Chapter V – Standardsregarding special training for personnel on certain types of ships.

Chapter V, Section A-V/2 was replaced to read: “Section A-V/2: Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualification of masters, officers, ratings and other personnel on passenger ships.”

Meaning, all personnel serving on board passenger ships engaged on international voyages shall have attained the abilities that are appropriate to their duties and responsibilities.

Experts believe the rigid requirement is a reaction of IMO on the bevy of accidents on passenger ships, notably on the cruise ship Costa Concordia.

Format.

UMTC instructor Capt. Jess Pascual facilitated the three-day pilot classes, viz: October 10: Lectures for Safety Training for personnel providing direct service to passengers in passenger spaces October 11: Lectures for Passenger Ship Crowd Management and Human Behavior October 12: Practical exercises for both courses The pilot class was composed of 12 trainees from Career Ship Management and 12 seasoned observers and validators, with years of experience working onboard passenger

ships, and representatives from training centers as instructors.

The 24 participants each received a MARINA Certificate of Appreciation and Certificate of Completion of the two courses from UMTC. Expectations.

After the courses, the trainees should be able to: • establish and maintain effective communication with passengers and crew during normal and emergency situations; • demonstrate to passengers the use of personal life-saving appliances, lead and act as muster station leader; and • explain procedures in embarking and disembarking passengers in normal and emergency situations with focused attention to persons needing special assistance.

Faster.

Supervisor Lugo met with observers and validators after the classes, reiterating that UMTC was given provisional authority for six months and expected to finalize the package in the next six months.

Alongside the ToR, she would be expecting a package with the application attached for faster evaluation and approval for training centers to legally offer the accredited courses.

Arguably, the UMTC pilot classes and courses therein are models for other training centers to replicate. The package answers to IMO mandates and is compliant to the latest amendments on international conventions into force.

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MARSAMAN FIRST TO RENEW DoLE Sec.Bello III and U/Sec Say with Mgr. Mabelo and her Marsaman staff

By Ma. Jessica B. Velez

M

arsaman Manning Agency (MMA) earned last June 28th its renewal license, the first given by the new department Administration. Witnessing the simple procedure were DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III and U/Sec Dominador Say of the labor department.

MMA was founded 1988885 and have steadily grown

by producing globally-competitive seafarers imbued with service excellence based on quality training and education.

Marsaman Manning Agency do acknowledge staff support to achieve international standard and Convention requirements, subscribed to DoLE guidelines in pursuit of world-class skills and commitment of Filipino seafarers.

Legislation

BERTIZ MEETS MARITIME ON MIGRATION

By Coca H. Strobar

Cong. Aniceto “John” Bertiz III re-booked his official trip to Japan to join industry stakeholders at the Maritime Forum on Human Capital Sector: Legislative Agenda hosted by the Movement for Maritime Philippines (MPM) held September 28th at the Manila Yacht Club.

It coincides with the celebrations of International Maritime Day and National Maritime Week.

The forum focused on House Bill 192, proposing to create a Department of Migration and Development (DMD), defining powers, functions and funds.

HB 192 was filed June 30, 2016 by Bertiz and co-authored by 36 congressmen. It was referred on July 26th to the Committee on Government Reorganization and, secondarily, to the Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.

Bertiz is the nominee of ACTS-OFW PartyList, an OFW for 12 years, former CEO of a land-based firm, a partner in a manning agency. He opened his discourse praising MMP “for initiative to come up with the blueprint that would elevate the level of progress of the maritime industry.”

He promises to fine-tune the bill on inputs from MMP, with end-in-view to enhance Pinoy competence and professionalism on seafaring.

Concept.

DMD shall be the primary policy, planning, coordinating, implementing and administrative entity of the Executive branch for national migration and development. Also, DMD shall harness for nationbuilding Filipino migrants returning home with skills and expertise to create, sustain and strengthen local employment and decent work.

Bertiz roadshows DMD

Section 14 thereof proposes to transfer bureaus, offices and agencies like offices of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) pertinent to international seafaring.

Concerns.

The Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) and the Association of Training Centers (PAMTCI) both support the creation of DMD, placing under one department agencies involved in the safety, welfare and protection of Filipino migrant workers. DMD enhances coordination, facilitate a cohesive set of policies, avoid duplication and conflict in regulations and processes.

However, there is concern on Section 14 (l) and (m) on transferring the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) and MARINA STCW office, among pertinent other offices because: 1. The STCW Convention is primarily a maritime

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MMP Chair San Pedro drives a point

safety convention and not of labor. It sets the minimum training and certification requirements for a seafarer to be considered as competent to perform assigned tasks onboard, thus ensure the ship can be safely navigated. The STCW Office, therefore, is primarily tasked that seafarers are certificated and competent according to the STCW mandates.

2. Compliance with the STCW is closely linked to the implementation of other maritime safety conventions such as the Intl Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, (SOLAS), Collision Regulations (COLREG) and the Intl Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1978, as amended, (MARPOL) and other IMO codes, recommendations and regulations. These are remotely concerns of migration; thus out of DMD purview.

3. The Philippines is undergoing the final phase of the audit by the European Maritime Safety Administration (EMSA), the EU agency in-charge of assessing compliance with the STCW convention by countries with seafarers on European Union flagged ships. Failure to pass EMSA audit will mean non-hiring of Filipino seafarers considered unseaworthy.

4. For over 15 years, STCW implementation was undertaken by a labor agency with a mind-set of employment rather than STCW compliance, creating a disconnect with shipowners who must comply with STCW mandates.

5. NMP is a maritime facility to build seafarers’ skills and knowledge through STCW-based research activities, its attachment to MARINA is even proposed to significantly enhance Philippine STCW compliance.

6. Inclusion of the MARINA-STCW and NMP violates Article VI, Section 26 (1) of the Constitution which states

bill by Congress shall “embrace only one subject which shall be expressed in the title thereof.” However, all of HB192 are on migration except for Section 14 (i) 7 (m) proposing the said transfers.

Consultations.

For so many months, Bertiz claims to have conducted public consultations and hearings. Capt. Jess Morales of Integrated Seafarers (ISP) has attended two of the hearings under the Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs and Committee on Government Reorganizations.

MARINA strongly opposes the bill; maritime interests also point out land-based rules are applied as crafted by Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

Bertiz assures his audience the one-department, oneumbrella concept will have a bureau or agency for particular sectors, his thinking based on his business experience on both land (recruitment) and sea (manning) based industries.

DMD is not unique, 27 countries have similar departments.

A priority bill of the President, the House leadership is rushing passage on the committee level. However, Bertiz claims he counsels to wait for more and wider inputs from stakeholder before approval at the plenary session.

He promised to ask the House Secretariat to call a forum with purely maritime interest, like seamen group, local domestic shipping, training schools, manning industry.

(Applause).

But on the promised forum, Bertiz should really prepare his scabbard for sharpened knives on so many other issues of critical and pivotal ranges.

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Marquez’s JMG was first to submit

PAMTCI Tunacao: the records, please.

Gepilano to Enrile: not even a list.

MARINA TO AMEND 10635 IRR The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), with industry stakeholders, is reviewing the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10635 also known as “MARINA STCW Administration Act of 2014.”

approval; July 24th, MARINA signing and August 9th, published in a national periodical (i.e. Manila Times) to make it a law, officially.

consultations of June 5, 2014 at GAD Center, Manila, was just for show and the private sector feels they were not really taken seriously.

The law was enacted March 13, 2014 from the bill of Angkla PartyList which mandated MARINA as the single administration to enforce the STCW (Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping), an international Convention governing seafarers.

In spite of a pending case at the Supreme Court.

Justifying, MARINA OIC Executive Director Joy Vera Ban-eg says the pending case pertains only to the PRC function.

Major associations are critical of the consultation process and actual provisions, including

The multilateral Technical Working Group (TWG) drafted the IRR headed by then MARINA STCW Executive Director Alvin Tormon with representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), National Telecommunication Commission (NTC), Dept. of Health (DOH), Angkla Partylist and UP Law Center.

Picked by raffling off private sector representatives: • Capt. Victor S. Del Prado – Manning Agency • Capt. Michael H. Sarthou, Jr – Academe • Mr. Mario S. Ondrade – Marine Deck Officers • Chief Engr. Pablo G. Bautista – Marine Engine Officers • Mr. Abdon V. Soriano – Seafarer Ratings The IRR zipped through: June 5th, maritime industry consultations; July 18th, DOTC

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“It will not in a way affect the entire IRR. If just in case the Supreme Court will favor pending petition or motion for review of returning or reverting back the PRC function to PRC, all other provisions of the IRR will not be affected.”

However, Ban-eg now says, “We all agree that there is a need to review the IRR” given conflicts in implementing RA10635 on the old IRR (which some quarters claim was rushed to placate the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) audit).

Joint Manning Group (JMG), Conference of Maritime Manning Agencies (COMMA) Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI), Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI), Masters and Mates Association (MMAP) with their lawyers and consultants.

Ban-eg admits to Capt. Tunacao there are no records to recover and should start all over. She claims that change of MARINA management did not have th proper transition, nor the transfer of record. But observers think this is just a bureaucratic cover-up of the Agency’s rush, then.

Procedures.

The turnaround was expressed by Ban-eg at the second consultation meeting for the revision of the IRR held October 4 at the City Garden Hotel, Ermita, Manila.

On the current IRR revision, Technical Working Group (TWG) is composed of six main groups and stakeholders are distributed:

Capt. Diofonce Tunacao, Director of Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) asks to recall records of deliberations on the past IRR consultations since there are great suggestions thereat “that should be our starting point.” That consultation was held at Ports Authority (PPA) presided by then MARINA Administrator Max Mejia.

•

Manning agencies – JMG, COMMA

•

Shipowners associations – FSA, DSA, SA

•

MHEI – PAMI

•

MTI – PAMTCI

•

Unions – AMOSUP, PSU, UFS

•

Professional Groups – MMAP, FILSCAPT

•

Government Maritime-Related Sector –

Since the old IRR was arguably rushed, stakeholders are dissatisfied (read, angry) on the provisions. It seems the MARINA

MHEIs seem agitated and aggrieved.

CHED, TESDA, DepEd, DOH •

Maritime Clinic association – AMClinics

•

MARINA – Divisions like STCW, Operations and Legal

•

Maritime PartyList - Angkla

MARINA serves as the TWG secretariat for documentation and consolidation of reports and data. TWG meet may without MARINA, in solo groups or together.

Meantime, MARINA STCW will meet MARINA Legal Division on how to approach, what can be done and not in the IRR proposed revisions.

Others with suggestions, recommendations, comments or queries may e-mail or submit hard copies to the STCW Office IRR Revision Secretariat.

TWG meets on October 20, November 3, 16, 28 and December 14 as Ban-eg appeals, “We are soliciting your help. Let us agree together” and hopes to collaborate towards a clear outline on what provisions or revisions may be submitted to the MARINA Board by December.

Manning.

JMG was first to submit comments and proposals, clarified by Vice Chair- External Affairs Ericson Marquez, “JMG spent one day discussing the provisions that were brought up last time… We know that there’s a case (at the Supreme Court) but …the same IRR remains to be followed which is ...full of mistakes if I may say that word.”

He also requests MARINA should allow stakeholders to validate what MARINA has consolidated as the “consensus.” Marquez is wary because the existing IRR is very far from comments given during the sham consultations.

Otherwise, “parang sinasayang lang natin ang panahon (seems wasting time) if you (MARINA) have a different opinion from the consensus of the whole industry.”

Regional.

schools, submitted its position paper on June 10 2014, deadline of MARINA. But like other organizations, observers believe almost none of their comments were considered in the final IRR.

Capt. Emerico Gepilano, member of MARINA Advisory Council reports on the first maritime stakeholders meeting in Cebu on the IRR revision.

(Then) STCW Director Alvin Tormon counters they have studied all the suggestions but there are points already clarified through STCW circulars.

They observe these contrasts on the present IRR:

•

It is now the SBT officer of the MHEI who is checking the daily journal and not anymore the Board of Marine Deck Officers and Board of Marine Engine Officers

Rule IV Compliance and Enforcement Procedures - While this has provisions for non-g acts. So the minor issuances cannot govern the implementation of a major issuance.

•

Section 8.4.3, unfair as P5K for MHEIs but P50K for MTIs:

•

•

MARINA regional offices shall monitor and evaluate the implementation and enforcement of this IRR. This has not yet been done in the regional offices.

•

Until now MARINA regional office don’t have a list of candidate as regional evaluators.

•

The ones evaluating in the region are not deck officer or engine officer in contrary to what is required in the IRR 6.7.2

More.

Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) President Felix Oca “It’s really us that have a big problem …We are trying to take a look and reword some of the statements… There are many things that we would like to correct… IRR should be approved by either the Secretary of the agency or the Department or the Executive the Executive Secretary himself.

Unfortunately this IRR was approved by the Administrator.

PAMI, the biggest organization of maritime

PAMTCI points out the following:

o Imposed for ordinary noncompliant acts: First offense in one school year: a fine of P5,000 for every count of non-compliance committed on the same day or occasion and written warning on the possible phasing out of METP. o MTIs for ordinary noncompliant acts: First offense in twelve-month period: a fine of P50,000 for every count of non-compliance committed on the same day or occasion, and a four-week preventive suspension of the particular ATP, counted from the last day the ATP was conducted, imposed within 30 days from the finality of the decision of MARINA More are brewing in the teacup, tempered or tempest. But bottom line, the law gives to MARINA the last say. Or the last laugh.

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M

When there is Truth and Love

SILENCE IS THE LOUDEST

By Ligaya Caban

M

illennials of today are kilig (excited) on the hashtag of forever. But sadly, often nowhere near the commitment of Centennials --- come rain or sun, perks or pain. For amid the noise of needs and wants, the vow is kept not with gripes nor curses but in humble silence.

But only when there is truth and love between the partners.

Replication.

This is the message of the Ruby Wedding Anniversary of Captain Joe and Lillette Alcantara celebrated last July 30th, plying 40 years of bliss with occasional showers and angry wind.

The original plan was July 10th the day they were wed in 1977.

But the captain would be on duty and was only able to secure a relief on July 16th. The bride will not allow more changes, says any date but within July. The woman has decided, backed by their youngest daughter and the wedding planner, Joann Michelle.

Hence, at the same Holy Child Chapel, Bonifacio Naval Station, Taguig City, the couple renewed nuptial vows with the same arrhea (coins shared as pledge of marriage as the Romans), used their second rings in the ceremonies.

It was touching and elegant with flower girl, with families and friends.

OSM Shipping Pres. Alex Abilo was intense being the groom’s best friend and batch mate at PMMA. However, the parents have journeyed earlier, except Joe’s mother who is bedridden (content on just to look over photographs after the renewal of vows).

The reception at Max’s was repeated, only this time at Max’s- BGC, and brighter with fresh red and white roses as the church, upgrading the previous reception of white roses only.

The nostalgia of the event refreshed the kilig, like the needling of Lillette’s aunties in the US that the couple are like magnets to each.

Their first “I Do” was a mixture of happiness and fear on what looms ahead.

The father of the bride gave an uncommon counsel: be submissive. It seems weird on today’s ways. Yet, the advice is based on the Bible that a wife must “follow” the husband.

The lovebirds.

Lillette was born in Baguio, the fourth and only daughter of five

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siblings; father from Iloilo, mother from Pangasinan, the man from a family of soldiers.

Joe is fourth of the eight brood of parents from Alaminos, Pangasinan. All his four brothers are now merchant mariners whom he helped board international vessels.

The 25th anniversary was not celebrated because the Captain was on duty. He suggested to celebrate on the 30th or 35th year of the vows. But Lillette disagreed; she wants to walk the aisle again on high heels!

She gave a stern warning: on the 40th, or wait for the Golden Anniversary with parents both possibly on wheelchairs, at best! The lady wants to radiate on her charm and face, not when emaciated by advanced years.

Besides, the lady dislikes to be like a friend who renewed vows so late. Yes, all the children are accomplished but the parents are on wheelchairs. And Lillette wants on that day, she and Joe are still healthy and firm to enjoy, even inspired for the surprises and challenges of days twice over golden anniversaries.

Joe was pleased he kept his promise. Though uneasy on the wait for their 50th Anniversary, he was straight-faced inviting in advance of the event. It was not just a joke but pleasant optimism for every one celebrating with them.

Still tweetums.

The mark of years may tell but the sweet voice remains, the voice and the sweet smile still conquer as they watched the wedding video --Lillette after 40 years, radiant as she commits to forever at the same chapel, daring come-what-may on the promise of love.

Most importantly, she renews the vow: “Only my pure love is what I can offer you. 40 years is such a fulfilling journey living my life with you. I never did regret marrying you, Jose Alcantara.”

Stars still sparkle, in spite of obstacles along the way. There is no secret formula but trust, respect and love for each other. And the greatest: faith on the Heavenly Father, the strength of their kindred soul --discovered in little lumps, more so on bumps on travails of life.

Dearly beloved.

Lillette: “You’re such a wonderful husband, you’re such an awesome father to our two daughters. I cannot wait for another 40 years to show my love for you through this kind of celebrations.

We are no longer the same during our tender years but I’m telling you once again and again there will be no end the pure love I can offer you.”

Joe makes public his letter in 1977--“I wish we’ll have a harmonious married life which will last forever.

I wish both of us will stay united against any evil that will come along our way.

I wish all our dreams will come to reality.

for any storm of the future.

On his Third year, he went on-the-job training (OJT); double bliss because he and Lillette are reconciled. He served 18 months on the Japanese Sanko Lines plying West Africa to Brazil.

When Joe returned after graduation, they decided to settle down given the long bonding.

I hope she’ll be understanding enough with all my shortcomings.

My profession calls always at sea – It means I’ll be always away from her and my children.

I wish she’ll have strong determination on the proper upbringing of our children.

Sacrifice, support.

Lillette turned down a study now-pay later in England, worried of the risk on their relationship. Joe was elated Lillette chose him over the rare opportunity. But in an after-thought, he felt somehow selfish for not supporting Lillette pursue a break. Yet, both really are on guard on their love to each other.

I’ll promise to remain faithful to her always.

I’m making this wish and promises to God just to let her know I love her.”

Lillette encouraged Joe to upgrade his career, to review and take examinations until he was licensed a captain in 1993, a captain of a ship in 2001.

As if not enough, Joe pours more from his heart: “The promises I’ve made throughout the 40 years we’ve been together need nothing to explain. But I promise you I will love you forever and that is immeasurable.

Trials.

Others seemed puzzled on their family situation but the couple have a different level of thinking, of persuasion.

I would say I am very much fulfilled to have given me two beautiful daughters (Joanne Elizabeth and Joanne Michelle) and tend to be successful both in their chosen careers. In addition, I’m very thankful for a granddaughter (Margarette Julia) and I cannot ask for more.”

Cupid, cupid.

They were batchmate in third year at Fort Bonifacio High School in West Rembo, Makati City. Lillette is at Section 1, Joe at Section 2. A mutual friend, later godmother to their daughter), introduced them to each other, as the era was before text and FaceBook.

They joined in school affairs, particularly on Citizenship Advancement Training (CAT). Joe as company commander took as sponsor (partner) Lillette, member of Women Auxiliary Corps.

A curious feeling germinated at Fourth Year High, Joe missing Lillette the mahiyain (prim and proper). But her father is a Sergeant Major of the armed forces, assigned to the Office of the Judge Advocate (fiscal in civilian courts). So strict, always on guard for Lillette.

But Joe was smarter. And patient.

Political storm.

Agitated by the Kabataang Makabayan violently protesting the martial law of the national government, troubles sparked in Metro Manila as Joe and Lillette enrolled for college. Her father decided to transfer the family to Iloilo, a safer place.

To Joe and Lilette, this move created an LDR (log-distance relationship). He was studying at the Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) at Fort Bonifacio then; Lillette enrolled at the Colegio de San Agustin (now University of San Agustin) in Iloilo.

They were passed MU (mutual understanding) but have to cool off given the circumstance. Yet, Joe continues to visit, in essence, “courting” her mother still living in Manila. He sneaks out of PMMA, tagging along Alex who is an Ilonggo (from Iloilo) and province mate of the family.

Lillette hanged on, too. She never entertained other relationship.

Instead, she worked hard to improve herself to be strong, to be better

Lillette has taken her father’s advice to submit to her husband, no matter. Her parents practiced what they preach, shouldering aches and crosses when challenges come.

She remembers: believe his words, trust and respect him. Totally.

When he feels this, he will reform on his own and that is the best, most reliable change for a happy marriage.

Of course, the captain is not an angel, succumbs to temptations bedeviling mariners lonely on long stretches away from loved ones.

But unlike seafarers going cranking (believing offense is the best defense), Joe is humble on his knees seeking forgiveness, sends flowers from the ship with endearing notes.

Lillette internalizes, keeping problems within and not involving even her mother nor direct family. She copes with faith, not outpouring even on friends as this will just hurt his reputation and their family.

Her silence is focused on God, offering to His will her husband and all problems.

Silence and kneeling are sometimes not enough. They almost parted, selling the house and migrating to the US, leaving Joe alone here. But Lillette did not leave; giving Joe the chance to court her again.

Illicit liaisons with women are gone and over. Joe’s life now is dominated by “other” women. From the machismo of the Academy, commanding a crew of mostly men, Joe must adjust to an all-women close quarters: his wife, two daughters and a grand daughter.

Finance.

Lillette worked at Natl Telco, then PLDT, and travels as her mother takes care of the daughters. Their first shot at business was devastating, getting a P3-million assessment from the Internal Revenue (BIR) as they operated without business permit and other papers.

They own a unit at a posh condominium at trendy BGC, a franchise for a 7-Eleven store at J.P. Rizal, Makati City near the office of a daughter, also near the school of the grand daughter.

Twice a week they are at their primary home at Filinvest- Binan, Laguna.

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Trends

FERRY MOVEMENTS The 42nd Interferry Annual Conference last October 7-11 held in Split, Croatia attracted 370 delegates, with 210 actual ferry operators and suppliers from 27 countries. Attendance was boosted by pro-active topics: alternative fuels, safety management, social media.

As added value, there were also active sharing of insights on ship technologies, safety issues, cyber security and customer experience.

CEO Mike Corrigan stressed, “Ferries are a relatively small sector of shipping, so it’s important that we all pull together to make things happen” along Interferry’s key focus on best practice, regulatory input and service innovations.

The import of the event is reflected by the attendance of Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic who noted, “As a country where 18-19% of GDP is from tourism, we attach great importance to the way tourists are transported to the islands along our coast.”

Pros and cons.

Mediterranean ferry operators are concerned on meeting the 0.5% sulphur emissions cap due in 2020. Minoan Lines Managing Director Antonios Maniadakis complained using low sulphur fuel would increase costs by €2 million per year.

Clean diesel was advocated by Alan Klanac, Interferry president and former CEO of Jadrolinija (past conference host) who argued LNG coolant technology was more suited to cold sea temperatures of 7-10 degrees such as in Norway.

There is a shortage in the region of LNG bunkering facilities. Attica Group CEO Spiros Paschalis is collaborating on a dual-fuel ferry project and more refuelling infrastructure.

Panos Mitrou of Lloyd’s Register thinks the ferry sector is best for

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alternative fuels, highlighting two European Unionbacked schemes to encourage a switch in the Eastern Mediterranean: The Poseidon Med II Project to provide LNG bunkering facilities at CEO Corrigan: make things happen five ports The Elemed Project promoting cold ironing and electric propulsion.

Jan Helge Pile, Color Line Managing Director-Marine & Technical Division, favors electrification sayng their 27,000gt diesel-electric ropax newbuild was originally planned to be LNG powered.

Jim Anderson, Director of vessels at Scotland’s Caledonian Maritime Assets confirmed that the company was actively working towards building a hydrogen-powered ferry.

Renewable electric energy was a viable game changer according to Soren Danig, VP business solutions at Plan B Energy Storage. “Air pollution from international shipping accounts for 50,000 deaths per year in Europe. New energy storage technology allows charging in 15 minutes, decreasing system sizes, 40,000 hour life cycles and end of life cell swaps.”

A ro-pax case study MAN passenger ship sales head Sokrates Tolgos concluded that life cycle costs were 14% higher using LNG and 31% higher for MGO compared with the HFO/scrubber option – a solution that met regulatory requirements and was in line with industry forecasts that 80% of marine operations would be HFO fuelled in 2030.

Safety management John Wright, Managing Director of safety consultancy and training specialist WrightWay, illustrated how the SailSafe project at Canada’s BC Ferries was currently saving the company two million dollars a year on hull & machinery insurance after a 50% reduction in premiums over eight years.

European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) Executive Director Markku Mylly described initiatives including the Firesafe ro-ro project. First phase research focused on electrical fire risks and extinguishing failures, showing 30% of fires originate on ro-ro decks, 90% from vehicles.

Avoid 60,000 Interferry formed the Domestic Ferry Safety Committee to support developing nations. The initiative has been launched given 93% of fatalities occur on domestic routes, estimating death toll of 60,000 in the past 50 years. Seven countries accounted for 66% of known fatalities, headed by the Philippines, Bangladesh and Indonesia.

Patrick Rossi, cyber security service manager at DNV GL, urged operators to include cyber piracy within safety management.

Cyber attackers are now using operational technology from old IT. On line.

Connectivity was the key word in sessions explaining how digitalisation, data mining and social media were crucial in building the customer experience and enhancing profits.

There is growing demand for seamless exchange of intermodal travel information to research and book entire journeys.

Brittany Ferries CEO Christophe Mathieu described the Ferry Gateway Project where eight are involved: Color Line, DFDS, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Stena Line, Tallink and Viking Line.

Dr. Helen Cripps, an image and sentiment specialist at Australia’s Edith Cowan University, said, “Social media is very powerful for young people because they trust each other more than brands.

It’s two-sided so you must stay engaged.”

Embark on a lifelong career.

While we are passionate about shipping, V.Ships is a people company.

We know that a good crew is what makes a voyage successful. Because of this we are enthusiastic about hiring and retaining the best crew and supporting their development throughout their career.

www.vcrew.com/phl

Contact Us Main Office Bradco Avenue, Aseana II, Aseana City, Paranaque 1702 Phone: 858-9900 / 401-9557 Cebu Branch 3rd Floor Crown Building, North 6 Road, Cebu Port Center Reclamation Area, Mabolo Cebu City (behind Sun Gold and in front of SM Cebu) Phone: 032 238-2449 / 032 238-9713

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Ports

PPA and Haikou officers

Solid Management, Global Outreach

PPA NETS P5.6B JUST HALF YEAR The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) posted another strong mid-year income of net P5.58billion, 20.5% higher than the P4.63-billion last year (again, higher by 45.6% from the P3.83-billion earlier ). This is from the mix of sound executive management, drop in expenses and rise in its Fund Management Income (FMI).

GM Jay Daniel R. Santiago observes, “The sustained positive outcome in shipping and trade at the ports, resulting from the country’s upbeat economic and business atmosphere and heightened domestic demand, continue to spark progression in PPA’s operational and financial performance.”

Total revenues went up 7.37% to P8.68billion (P8.07-billion last year), higher by 5.04% on the target of P8.26-billion.

Collection from Lay-up fees dropped 77.5%, storage fees slid 8.5%. But income from port operators, cargo-handling fees and port dues increased 12.81%, 11.35%, 12.04% and 11.15%, respectively.

FMI income is on investments in Treasury bonds and other temporary/short-term investments placed with the state-owned agency’s depository banks, posted a 34.73% hike at P60.75-million (over P45.09-million last year). FMI performed higher by 89.3% on a target of P32.09-million.

Expenditures of P3.09-billion dropped almost 10% from P3.44-billion of 2016.

Earlier, the PPA has revised its 2017 financial outlook from flat to modest growth brought about by surges in economic activities from bigger cargo volume. With these, PPA could maintain being in the ‘Billionaires Club” of GOCCs (Government-owned and Controlled Corporations), currently at 4th spot with P1.95-billion remittance to the national Treasury.

Despite scare.

Cargo soars 7.4% up to June of the year despite Mindanao security issues, in all aspects except for loose export cargoes.

Mindanao ports posted likewise, despite experiencing security issues.

leisure inter-island Ro-Ro travel to Siargao, Puerto Galera, Bohol, Coron, El Nido, and other emerging tourism sites. But shipcalls declined by 0.61% to 219,380 from 220,721 due to the successive cancelations of trips due to inclement weather.

Cargo volume reached 125.805 million metric tons (mmt) while 2016 showed 117.118 mmt.

Domestic volume posted the higher growth with 8.79%, foreign a 6.51% hike. Import bested export with 11.41% increase while export declined by 0.61%.

At the Manila Ports (Manila South Harbor, Manila North Harbor and the Manila Intl Container Terminal) productivity is high with yard utilization at 53%, berth occupancy at 57% and Quay Crane productivity at 26 moves per crane per hour, indicating no congestion.

“The more efficient movement of cargoes coming in and out of the Manila ports as a result of the implementation of Terminal Management Booking System and other decongestion measures paved the way for the sustained efficient operations of the ports,” says Santiago.

The Northern Mindanao ports of Iligan, Ozamiz, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, and Surigao, handled 112.575 mmt; container volume registered a 5.33% hike from 173,191 metric tons in 2016 to 182,433 mt of year previous. Domestic cargo went up by 65% to 10.023 mmt from 6.083 mmt.

Total container throughput increased by 12.05% to 3.489 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) from 3.113 million TEUs in 2016. Foreign container traffic improved 11.05% to 2.073 million TEUs from 1.867 million TEUs while domestic container volume improved by 13.55% to 1.414 million TEUs from 1.246 million TEUs of 2016.

Passenger traffic sneaked a growth of 1.86% to 38.583 million from 37.879 million passengers in 2016, driven by travelers during the Holy Week, continuous reliance on Ro-Ro vessels, fastcrafts, and motorized bancas for domestic inter-island connectivity.

Another factor maybe the government’s domestic eco-tourism programs encouraging

Coop network.

More than the formalities, maritime and logistic experts see the Manila-Haikou cooperation as another proactive move related to the shift to Asia of global trade and industry. The two port authorities agreed “to improve services in all jurisdictional areas.”

PPA GM Santiago hosted Haikou City Director General Lin Jian in a recent goodwill visit to Manila to sign the agreement. This Manila- Haikou sister-port pact is only the second between the two countries in more than a decade, the first being between Davao and Guangzhou.

Optimism is high to deepen mutual cooperation through sharing experience and expertise in port mandatories like development and maintenance, management, operations and trade cargo, safety and disaster prevention, environmental issues, and allied aspects.

PPA has signed similar contracts with key ports like Incheon-South Korea, Kobe and Yokohama-Japan, Cork-Ireland and San Francisco-USA. Santiago keeps on evaluating other international ports in the bid “to increase the viability and competitiveness of Philippine ports and benchmark it to world standards.”

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Shipping

ICS CALLS FOR SUCCESS OF BWM CONVENTION ICS Chair Poulsson The Intl Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is calling for the successful implementation of the Intl Maritime Organization (IMO) Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention as this comes into force 8 September 2017.

ICS Chairman Esben Poulsson estimates US$100-billion may be needed to install new ballast water treatment system required by law. He advises shipowners, equipment manufacturers and governments to co-operate to ensure this new regulatory regime is properly implemented.

A revised IMO type-approval standards was adopted in 2016, even though this is not yet a mandatory requirement. ICS welcomes though the IMO decision made in July “to adjust the implementation dates of the Convention so that existing ships (constructed before 8 Sept) will not be required to install treatment systems until their first International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) renewal survey after 8 September 2019.

ICS views.

The pragmatic approach by IMO Member States supports the ICS view it is not logical to require some 40,000 ships to retrofit and comply until they can be fitted with systems under the more stringent standards of the Convention.

ICS was ambivalent on encouraging

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to ratify the BWM Convention due to serious issues not fully resolved.

Now that the Convention has entered into force, (and IMO’s acceptance of ICS points), ICS is encouraging IMO Member States to ratify as soon as possible.

The IMO BWM Convention is on the problem of invasive marine organisms damaging local ecosystems coming from ships ballast tanks. When this Convention was adopted in 2004, there was no technology to treat millions of gallons of ballast water except laboratory models.

By October 2016, on an industry campaign led by ICS, the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) was adopted. It is a more robust type-approval standards included in the mandatory Code for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems – replacing the ‘G8’ Guidelines found wanting by shipowners in key areas.

ics-shipping.org/docs/default-source/ resources/environmental-protection/ ballast-water-management---frequentlyasked-questions-(faqs).pdf?sfvrsn=4 Shipping companies have been advised

by ICS in these FAQs to put pressure on manufacturers to install only treatment systems certified in accordance with the revised IMO type-approval standards adopted in 2016.

ICS is the principal international trade association for shipowners and operators, concerned with all technical, legal employment affairs and policy issues that may affect international shipping.

Membership comprises national shipowners’ associations in Asia, Europe and the Americas which members operate over 80% of the world’s merchant tonnage.

However, they will not become mandatory for new system approvals until 28 October 2018 and only systems being installed after October 2020 will be required to have been approved in accordance with the new Code.

Capacity problems.

The International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention) requires ships to manage their ballast water to remove, render harmless, or avoid the uptake or discharge of aquatic organisms and pathogens within ballast water and sediments.

ICS sources views from responses on its ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ (FAQs) found on the ICS website: http://www.

But manufacture of approved treatment systems may be humongous in so short a timeframe. Yards may be inadequate,

so are qualified technicians in the area. Lost chartering opportunities may impact in an industry already on a tailspin. Worst, if the ships are approaching the end of their typical 25year life.

by ships for stability and structural integrity. It can contain thousands of aquatic microbes, algae and animals which are then carried across the world’s oceans and released into ecosystems where they are not native.

IMO optimism.

The BWM Convention is “… a landmark step towards halting the spread of invasive aquatic species, which can cause havoc for local ecosystems, affect biodiversity and lead to substantial economic loss,” says IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim.

Untreated ballast water released could introduce new invasive aquatic species.

Expanded ship trade has increased the likelihood of invasive species being released; hundreds of invasions have already taken place, sometimes with devastating consequences for the local ecosystem, economy and infrastructure.

He adds, “(W)e are now addressing what has been recognized as one of the greatest threats to the ecological and the economic well-being of the planet.

Invasive species are causing enormous damage to biodiversity… natural riches of the earth… cause direct and indirect health effects and the damage to the environment is often irreversible.

The BWM Convention requires all ships in international trade to manage their ballast water and sediments, according to a ship-specific ballast water management plan. All ships must carry a ballast water record book and an International Ballast Water Management Certificate.

Record book.

Ballast water is routinely taken on

Standard and option.

Initially, there will be two standards and two options:

D-1 standard, requires ships to exchange their ballast water in open seas. Ideally, this means at least 200 nautical miles from land and in water at least 200 metres deep. With this, fewer organisms will survive; ships less likely to introduce harmful species when they release the ballast water.

D-2, a performance standard which specifies the maximum amount of viable organisms allowed to be discharged, including specified indicator microbes harmful to human health.

New ships must meet the D-2 standard from today while existing ships must initially meet the D-1 standard. An implementation timetable for the D-2 standard has been agreed, based on the date of the ship’s International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPPC) renewal survey, which must be undertaken at least every five years.

Eventually, all ships will have to conform to the D-2 standard. For most ships, this involves installing special, expensive equipment.

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Trends

World’s Largest, Most Influential for Marine HR

CREWCONNECT GLOBAL THIS NOVEMBER Whatever the industry, the challenges for HR professionals remain the same: how to attract the best talent, how to provide training which adds genuine value, and how to ensure high levels of staff retention.

The maritime industry needs to improve to prevent a manpower crisis given these predictions:

•

The BIMCO/ICS Manpower Report predicts a deficit of 147,500 officers by 2025

•

The Ocean Policy Research Foundation sees a shortfall of 364,000 seafarers by 2050

Some may dismiss these as too distant, noting the current crew surplus. There is also talks on automation that could reduce the number of crews. And a long debate is expected, prolonging the timeframe of implementation.

But one thing is absolutely certain: that the demand for container transportation is set to increase, and with it – at least in the short term – the demand for crew members.

Fortunately, the crewing industry could meet the rising demand with the shift in crew supply from traditional maritime nations of Europe, Japan and North America, and towards emerging

economies like China, the Philippines and Indonesia.

These Asian nations have populations and growing commercial clout, with room for improvement on their utilization of human resources. Multicultural and multilingual crew are now the trend; except poor communication aboard means crew retention is often lower than optimal. Increased cultural awareness of shipowners, recruiters and operators could boost retention, making the maritime industry a more attractive sell to such developing economies.

Another promising opportunity for crewing professionals is Internet connectivity for vessels at sea. Extended separation from friends and loved ones has long been a source of dissatisfaction for seafarers. Combined with long hours and irregular sleeping patterns make poor mental health a genuine concern for crew safety and retention.

At present, only 6% of seafarers have sufficiently fast Internet connections to make video calls home to their families, but this figure is rising. With continued investment in their digital infrastructure, shipping companies may see one of the main barriers to an effective crewing strategy lifted. However, this investment will have to be matched by enhancements in cyber security to allay fears of greater vulnerability to online threats.

Major speakers at the 2016 CrewConnect Global 54

MARINO WORLD

Taking place in Manila on November 6-8, CrewConnect Global brings over 600 international crewing professionals and 80 expert speakers to discuss issues of interest with detailed case studies, engaging industry response panels, inspiring keynote addresses.

Focus include the impact of digital disruption, managing crew claims, crew retention & advancement, cyber security and safety at sea. This year includes the CruiseConnect Summit, a one-day event devoted to the challenges of crewing in the cruise sector.

Speakers for CrewConnect Global include:

•

John Adams, Managing DirectorTeekay Shipping, ChairmanBahamas Shipowners’ Association

•

Iris Baguilat, Pres.-Döhle Seafront Crewing

•

Alex Verchez, Pres. and Managing Director-Teekay Shipping-Phil

•

Kate Adamson, CEO-Futurenautics

•

John Gahnstrom, Senior Marine Manager-INTERTANKO

•

Gerardo Borromeo, VP-Filipino Shipowners Association

Let your voyage begin with us…

We are looking for competent and dynamic Senior Officers to go onboard our vessels for Bulk Carriers (Handy size and Cape size Bulkers) and Oil/Chemical Tankers.

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