MARINO WORLD 13TH ANN EDITION

US$8 €12 ¥200

VOLUME XIII NO. 6 ISSN 1908-0972

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PHP120

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2018

th year

MARINO WORLD

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Governance

On the EMSA Threat EN GARDE, PHILIPPINES! Training 10th Year Cadet Program IMEC MOVING FORWARD Cover Story

A BLUE PHILIPPINES

Feature

SEAFARER TO SHIPOWNER

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Content

ABOUT THE COVER Ambassador Carlos C. Salinas goes beyond being a diplomatic necessity to an effective link for our national Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

interests. He works within respected protocols, inching and synergizing where it should and matter most.

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Lyn Bacani

Editorial Consultant

Creative Director

B. Cortes Lagac

Jhon Henson Ong

Legal Counsel

Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.

Eva Tan

News and Feature Writers Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors Ms. Merle San Pedro

RAdm. Adonis Donato

Atty. Cristina Beltran

International Contributors

F R Chowdhury

Mark Millar

Richard Teo

Correspondents Onin Miranda

Gel Miranda

Boy Ilano

Photographers Joana Marie Tud

Royette de Paz

Jerome Reyes

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

LET’S MOVE UP! Capt. Tony Palenzuela thinks the views of Joost Mes published July 30, 2018 are relevant to the EMSA issue and impact on our maritime industry, national economy and upkeep of families.

Mes appears qualified to comment: a trustee at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Phil, director at Avoir Marine, Seatrade owners representative, licensed Master, MBA, eight years onboard with a pool of over 4,000 multinational seafarers. He is specialized in strategy development, process re-engineering and performance measurement.

Marino World agrees with Mr. Mes that, “If we do not adjust, we could be a nation of the best educated ratings in the world.

We need to aim higher.”

Yes, EMSA findings are worrisome; yet, an epiphany as we now see the the glass is half full rather half empty as Mes advocates.

For one, Pres. Duterte signed EO 63 to “ensures the sustainability of the effects of its corrective measures pertaining to the EMSA findings” a direct support on MARINA efforts.

The Legislature prioritizes hearings on maritime-related bills, monitoring the compliance of government agencies involved.

The stakeholders are becoming responsive

to the call, policing themselves, raising the bar of excellence in maritime education and training.

Shipowners are enhancing the cadetship program, investing more on additional facilities and training programs.

Cadets and seafarers are challenged, showing their best efforts to prove competence. Winners of the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students (TOMSP) reflect the “Culture of Excellence” in maritime.

List of qualified nations to accredit.

But United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) Pres. Nelson Ramirez notes the alarming decrease of sea-based workers (442,820 in 2016; 378,072 in 2017) per records of the Phil Overseas Employment Agency (POEA).

Engr. Ramirez ascribes the dip to ambulance chasing, a connivance between lawyers, seafarers and government labor arbitrators suing shipowners on just about anything with ridiculously high claims.

Nowhere is it better said than “We are not Filipinos because we are world class seafarers; we are world class because we are Filipino seafarers.

The counter-vale is, perhaps, Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, the 15th MARINA Administrator handpicked by a popular President.

To which Mr. Mes adds, “The Philippines was not singled out and all direct stakeholders, including the EC, want the Philippines to succeed.”

At the recent Association of Maritime Schools (PAMI) assembly, Administrator Guerrero shared, “We’re doing reforms silently but decisively.”

Derecognition affects about 73,200 Filipino seafarers (officers and ratings) on board EU flagged vessels. According to EMSA 2017 Outlook, there are 28,874 Filipino seafarers holding Certificates of Competency and Endorsements attesting recognition by EU countries valid in 2014.

He spoke of tremendous public and private efforts to address the EMSA concerns because of its major impact to our compatriots and national economy.

The number, then, is around 30,000, not 80,000 usually reported by mass media.

Ambassador Carlos Salinas is holding fort at the Intl Maritime Organization (IMO) for the Philippines to remain in the White

In subliminal drama, he spoke of wearing again his military uniform, if need be, to confront the beast that is EMSA and deaccreditation.

To the applause, Guerrero submits failure is not an option. With a smile of steel, he declared “This is my final battle.”

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GOVERNANCE

MARINA Admin. Guerrero and OIC-STCW Director Vingson, Jr.

On the EMSA Threat

EN GARDE, PHILIPPINES!

by Ligaya Caban

In manning the world’s fleet, Philippines is a sleeping giant --- not just because of ratings but of marine officers. This should be the fall back should the European Union (EU) derecognize the certificate of competency (COC) of Filipino merchant mariners.

MARINA Administrator Rey Leonardo Guerrero signaled this realization at a press briefing September 28th on Philippine compliance with the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) audit findings.

Referring to the threat, Guerrero said, “… it is good that the nation is now aware of the plight of our maritime professionals and no less than the President himself has taken direct hand to address the issue.”

The MARINA head underscored the “national significance” of the concerns, given his agency is the designated single maritime administration for the implementation of the 1978 Intl Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers, as amended.

Problem.

If the “specific actions” the Philippines has taken are not accepted by the

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European Union (EU), the country may be de-certified or de-accredited, banning our seafarers from working on EUflagged vessels.

harmonize with the STCW Convention, cascading implementation with raising standards for certifications;

Thousands of jobs may be lost should the European Commission (EC) accepts the assessment report by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) which conducted continuous audits in the Philippines from 2006 to 2017.

•

Upgraded training standards with the approval of the refresher course in advanced firefighting, the four mandatory training courses on passenger ships, and the electrotechnical officer course;

The crux.

•

Developed comprehensive internal process to its quality management system that gave rise to an IT support system to evaluate and monitor METIs;

•

Issued a joint memorandum with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) making MARINA as lead evaluator monitoring maritime education programs;

•

Monitored Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs).

Of 30 MHEIs inspected, only seven conformed to the STCW Convention and were issued ultimatums to comply.

•

Executive Order 63 also “ensures the sustainability of the effects of its corrective measures pertaining to the EMSA findings” as the said

Is the Philippines capable to give complete and full effect to the STCW Convention, the international regulation that sets the minimum global standard for maritime education, training and certification system?

In July 2017, the EC Assessment Report detailed 42 shortcomings of our maritime industry in (1) national policies, (2) maritime administration, (3) requirements for certification, and (4) maritime education and training institutions (METI).

Reaction.

MARINA responded “fully addressing these EMSA findings and implementing corrective actions by October 31, 2018”: •

Revised seven circulars to

EO reflects presidential support on MARINA efforts.

On target.

It was almost an in-your-face appeal: shape up as other schools do.

Competitions will raise standards but it will also decimate the incompetent.

Voices.

Politicians are now in the act. Like Sen. Grace Poe asking MARINA Deputy STCW Executive Director Joy Vera Baneg to “Please update me weekly…” and signboards in schools stating they are yet to comply.

Three deadlines: April 30, 2018, Philippine report must contain “measures done, or intended, to areas mentioned.” Next deadline is October 31st, for submission of “evidence of implementation” and a year after, 31 October 2019, the Philippines must show “evidence support Information Technology (IT) systems have been developed.”

Reacting, an officer of Siquijor State College (SSC) lamented locals cannot afford to study in urban schools. Being a state college, it is under-funded to secure required facilities. To augment, SSC appealed to its alumni that donated almost PhP1-million to retain the program.

Whispers.

Capt. Edgardo Flores, GM-Eastern Mediterranean Manning Agency, criticized EMSA audited the schools on IMO Model Course which is a vocational course; that of the Philippines is baccalaureate.

Last October 22nd at the Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) 2nd General Assembly, Guerrero said, “It is not a matter of being in danger. In the first place, we’re not in danger because we are very confident of the competence and quality of our seafarers.”

Rumors continue to fly the Philippine has been axed or de-certified. There is a bilateral agreement of a deadline by October, 2019 yet. This cannot just be

One may then see many “observations” (which may be done or not) and are not “findings” (which must be remedied) Flores clarifies we’re a signatory to

EMSA insists they are not just about compliance, they want evidence. At the last IMO 120th Council meeting, Guerrero explained to European Senator Villanueva Senator Poe Commission representatives to show proof, it would take more IMO, compliant already on “minimum ignored under the principle of pacta than a year (in fact, more than two requirement.” He asks why are they sunct servanda (agreements must be years). asking now for more instead of their kept). mission to assist, provide, organize and Appeal.

There is also that pragmatic advantage help?

Filipino seafarers are a major block in His focus is “developing our country Pragmatics. crewing EU vessels. It is not easy to using the maritime industry,” which replace thousands which must confront remits about US$5-billion annually, Capt. Rey Valeros, Jr., Managing issues on certification, skill, salary, work gives jobs to over 700,000 maritime Director-Stratosphere Shipmanagement and social attitudes and availability. professionals. Aside are our rich but Group, strongly believes Filipinos will untapped marine and offshore resources. never be de-certified on EU vessels, Fact is, a number of EU members are reportedly positioning “their” accrediting shipowners won’t allow it.

Guerrero exhorted PAMI to join its facilities on foreign soil (the Philippines) “whole industry approach” as no single circumventing technicality over business Capt. Valeros shared his own experience. law, plan nor program can resolve the Owners will find ways to circumvent, interest.

EMSA crisis and fallout. as in his case. To “comply” with

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EN GARDE, PHILIPPINES!

Captains Abilo, Flores and Lopez as Senate resource persons

certifications, they secured his from the Isle of Man, then from Panama.

performed well, now hired on permanent status.

Valeros also points to too much access of EMSA in our schools, getting to the guts of our systems and institutions rather than just coordinating with lead agencies as they do in other countries.

End-users must be asked, briefed, guided on policy and amendments as they are the first to be affected. Ask the Greeks about EMSA, the answer will be, “That’s Greek to me.”

Real problem.

Numbers.

POEA report on the decline of sea-based workers (442,820 in 2016; 378,072 in 2017).

Derecognition affects about 73,200 Filipino seafarers (officers and ratings) on board EU flagged vessels. According to EMSA 2017 Outlook, there are 28,874 Filipino seafarers holding Certificates of Competency and Endorsements attesting recognition by EU countries valid in 2014.

Flores said they recruited 40 cadets from the Eastern Block, to increase every year.

They are now competitive with English, our former advantage. They ask less on the CBA, prominently Ukraine.

The Management Level Course requirement caused bottleneck in 2016, forcing him to recruit a Caucasian who

Capt. Valeros

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Flores estimates barely 4,000-8,000 junior officers could be affected as EU flag vessels are decreasing.

Mr. Marquez

Shipboard training.

On the September 24th public hearing on the Senate Magna Carta of Seafarers bill, Joint Manning Group Vice Chair Ericson Marquez explained to Sen. Joel Villanueva: •

26,000 cadets graduate every year with three years academics.

•

Only 5,000 goes on board, including those in the domestic shipping (bearing an annual surplus of 21,000).

•

CHEd mandated to accept first year students based on the school “carrying capacity,” meaning how many cadets have they boarded based on previous years.

•

(JMG is close to Japanese principals having donated a training ship; another one to be named Kapitan Gregorio Oca to board about 120 cadets per year but still too miniscule to the gaping requirements) The JBL Maritime Vanguard Services may launch this November 8 a first-of-itskind training ship offering hands-on On-board Training (OBT) staffed by qualified, licensed training officers.

It will be named MV Capt.

John B. Lacson, a tribute to the pioneer maritime university in the region, JBLFMU.

The Philippine Shipowners Association already expressed support to cooperate with MARINA in providing shipboard training to cadets.

the rounds to inspect, observe and recommend.

Revisit.

The Philippines is also overdue for periodical reporting and independent evaluation at the IMO. All these should be submitted well before the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) meeting in December 2018. This timeline may even be more challenging than the EC, taking into account that each report may take months to be evaluated.

Capt Valeros asks aloud: why not return the practice of boarding cadets on M/S Philippines as it sails around the world, training 200 cadets yearly, at least.` This he follows with a more critical policy disagreement: why can the Administration spend billions on drug addict rehabilitation and not on facilities for maritime cadets?

Capt. Flores accepted the invitation, pro bono, of MARINA Deputy Administrator for Operations Nanette Dinopol to look into the domestic shipping, even doing

IMO.

Niceties.

In a courtesy visit last September 26th to IMO Sec-Gen Kitack Lim, Transport Sec. Arthur Tugade noted the progress made by the MARINA such as the “… hassle-free issuance of the

Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB)… online appointment system, removal of uniform rental fees, upgrading and automating exams.”

Notably, the seafarer’s book is issued in a day from the usual 15 days.

Sec-Gen Lim responded, “the Philippines is a very important member of the IMO, given its well-motivated maritime workforce.”

Lim adds Filipino seafarers are highly regarded in the maritime industry, often citing them “for their diligence and discipline.”

Sec. Tugade invited Sec-Gen to visit the Philippines next year, seen as another diplomatic effort to buff our image on the world stage.

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Recognition of COC’s

IN NO DEAL BREXIT Local maritime stakeholders expect an “overarching framing notice” similar to that scenario in which the UK leaves the EU without agreement. But this ‘no deal’ posture is unlikely given the mutual interests of the UK and the EU in securing a negotiated outcome.

In parallel reality, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is looked up to give similar notices on the imminent danger of deaccreditation of the Philippines by the European Union (EU). This may be the result of the 10-year audit by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) on the Philippines finding shortfalls on

policy, facility and reforms.

Just in case.

The British Government believes”… it’s our duty as a responsible government to prepare for all eventualities, including ‘no deal’, until we can be certain of the outcome of those negotiations.”

For two years, the government has been implementing a significant program of work to ensure the UK will be ready from Day 1 in all scenarios, including a potential ‘no deal’ outcome in March 2019.

A series of technical notices sets out information to allow businesses and citizens to

understand what they would need to do in a ‘no deal’ scenario to make informed plans and preparations.

Likewise, MARINA may also outline the approach to dislocated Filipino seafarers on EU flagged vessels (sizeable by any count).

To date, the issue hangs as “final” deadline is set yet for 2019, plus the usual extensions as a diplomatic tradition.

There also seems over-reaction with the Philippine VCAP offering things not asked, i.e. an IT system in place to validate compliance.

The status quo.

At present, the international standards of training, certification and watchkeeping convention (STCW) mandates a crew member carrying out certain duties must have a certificate of competency (COC), renewed every 5 years.

A seafarer trained outside of the UK and working on a UK flagged vessel, must have a certificate of equivalent competency (CEC) issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The CEC allows seafarers holding COCs issued by recognised nonUK countries (about 50) to work on board UK-registered merchant ships.

With ‘no deal’ Endorsements issued before withdrawal

by EU countries to seafarers holding UK COCs would continue to be valid until they expire.

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After exit, the rights and obligations placed on the UK as a signatory to the STCW convention would remain, including those for recognising certificates issued by third countries.

In the event of no deal, UK intends to: •

Continue recognising all certificates currently recognised, including those issued by EU and EEA countries after exit

•

Seek third country recognition of UK certificates by the EU under the STCWconvention

EU countries that wish to continue accepting new UK COCs would need to write to the European Commission, per EC Directive 2008/106.

Diplomatic chess.

The Brexit negotiations are current between the United Kingdom and the European Union for the prospective withdrawal of UK from the EU, following the UK’s referendum on EU membership in June 2016.

The negotiating period began on 29 March 2017; on 19 June, British Brexit Secretary David Davis, arrived in Brussels to begin negotiations with EC Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier.

The scope could include the withdrawal agreement, a temporary transitional period agreement and another agreement for the post-transitional period.

Negotiation might also need to address Free Trade Agreement treaties between the European Union and its members (including the UK) for one part and third countries for the other part, and the tariff-rate quota, which might be split or renegotiated.

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PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME INSTITUTIONS (PAMI) The Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) is a non-stock, non-profit organization duly registered with Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) on 24 May 1984.

PAMI is the umbrella of seventy-one (71) member-institutionsas of October 2018.

The member-institutions of PAMI are the primary providers of basic maritime education of the Filipino seafarers.

VISION “Aims to be the steward for quality in Maritime Education and Training (MET)” MISSION “To meet the stakeholders’ satisfaction, PAMI will be the catalyst of change and the voice for Maritime Education and Training (MET)”

LUZON 1.

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Asian Institute of Maritime Studies Baliwag Maritime Academy Bicol Merchant Marine College, Inc. Central Luzon College of Science and Technology – Olongapo/Pampanga Dr. Carlos S. Lanting College Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc. Educational Systems Technological Institute FEATI University Fernandez College of Arts and Technology Inter-Global College Foundation, Inc. Isabela College of Arts & Technology, Inc. Jose C. Feliciano College Foundation Lyceum Northwestern University Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas Malayan Colleges Laguna Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Foundation of Canaman (Cam Sur), Inc. Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Foundation of Legaspi City (Albay), Inc. Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation

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Midway Maritime Foundation, Inc. NAMEI Polytechnic Institute Northern Philippines College for Maritime, Science & Technology, Inc. Northwestern University NYK-TDG Maritime Academy Our Lady of Fatima University Palawan Polytechnic College, Inc. Pan Pacific University Philippine College of Science & Technology Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Philippine Merchant Marine School - Las Pinas/Manila Philsin Colleges PIMSAT Colleges, Inc. PMI Colleges - Manila/Quezon City Technological Institute of the Philippines – Manila/Quezon City University of Cagayan Valley University of Perpetual Help System Dalta - Las Pinas University of Perpetual Help System Laguna West Bay College

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Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College Palompon Institute of Technology PMI Colleges – Bohol Siquijor State College St. Therese-MTC Colleges Magdalo St. Therese-MTC Colleges Tigbauan University of Antique University of Cebu - Maritime Education and Training Center (UC-METC) University of Cebu LapuLapu and Mandaue University of Iloilo VMA Global College and Training Center, Inc.

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Misamis University Saint Joseph Institute of Technology Southern de Oro Philippines College Surigao Education Center Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology

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Cebu Technological University - Carmen Campus Concord Technological Institute Cristal e-College Eastern Visayas State University Iloilo State College of Fisheries John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation - Bacolod, Inc. John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University – Molo John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc. Naval State University Negros Maritime College Foundation, Inc.

MINDANAO 1.

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Agro-Industrial Foundation College of the Philippines Capitol University Davao Merchant Marine Academy College of Southern Philippines Holy Cross of Davao College, Inc. MATS College of Technology Mindanao Polytechnic College

6th Floor, Suite 600, The Gregorian Bldg., 2178 Taft Avenue, Malate, Manila (02) 527-6904 / pamiorg1@gmail.com

Minister Pitty, Admiral Buzby

Signed in Washington

PANAMA-US MARITIME TRANSPORT AGREEMENT To deepen bilateral relations and institutional cooperation, Panama and the United States recently signed the important Cooperation Agreement of Maritime Transportation.

of the 20th century with the construction of the Panama Canal, an engineering marvels which plays a vital role in global maritime transportation.

Panama Minister of Maritime Affairs Jorge Barakat Pitty subscribed for his government; Admiral Mark H. Buzby, for the United States of America.

Panama has accomplished main objectives since first draft was presented in a bilateral meeting in 2016 to line up “the common interest of strengthening the links” of understanding and maritime cooperation.

Minister Barakat sees the Agreement “… as framework to present to the American Investors in maritime investments projects that Panama is pushing to strengthen its Logistic Hub”.

It is expected commercial maritime activities between Panama and USA will be closer. The links go back from the beginning

With guided optimism, Minister Barakat declares this Agreement is “the start of a lasting relationship between the Panama Maritime Authority and the Maritime Administration of the United States of America.”

Simple formalities in Washington, D.C.

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10th Year Cadet Program

IMEC MOVING FORWARD

by Coca H. Strobar

The International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) ensures sustainable operations for shipowners by negotiating competitive Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) --- With funds derived by the CBA’s, IMEC is able to run a unique 2-1.5-1 timeline of academic studies, on-board experience and wrap-up in school and for licensure.

seafarers worldwide. It also establishes good training practices in world-class training facilities.

Pacific (MAAP) delivers the program, training and preparing deck and engine officer cadets.

A member has the option to sponsor cadets under the IMEC Enhanced Cadet Scheme.

At around a 95% completion rate, no words need describe the fantastic success.

The range.

IMEC hacks a different path from the usual: not vetting for the most educated rating; instead, developing leadership as career credential. The first two years are academic honing. Then a year onboard the ship of sponsoring company and then returning to college for another year to finish the academic requirements.

Adam Lewis, Head of Training & Operations, recalls the pilot class was in 2006 with 25 students. The main cadet program rolled in 2008 with 1,400 graduates now and about 600 under training. The focus is on quality and not in numbers.

Added incentive: a sponsoring IMEC member provides training berths during the third year, guaranteeing the cadets time at sea. After qualifying, officers return to their sponsoring companies for full time employment.

This year marks the First Decade of its Cadetship Program.

World body.

IMEC is the only international employers’ organisation dedicated to maritime industrial relations. Established over sixty years ago, it operates from offices in Hampshire, UK, and Manila in the Philippines and represent over 230 shipping companies with 11,200 vessels of 60 flags, almost 300,000 seafarers of 68 nationalities.

Expectedly, IMEC takes an active role in the training and future employment of

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Some 470,000 ships officers sail on almost 60,000 ships transporting goods from chemicals and oil to steel, coal and luxury cars.

As ships continued to be built, not enough quality seafarer were produced.

In 2006, IMEC commenced an Enhanced Cadetship Programme in the Philippines to answer the need.

IMEC adjusted last year the cadetship to 4 ½ years to be more responsive to career growth and industry requirements.

Partner.

The Maritime Academy of Asia and the

The programme is funded through the International Maritime Training Fund (IMTF) for the first two years.

Thereafter, though a stipend which cadets earn during on-board training.

Cadets are provided with tuition, teaching materials, uniform, food, accommodation and access to first class training facilities.

Founded in 1998, MAAP is designed to be a world-class maritime academy, equipped with state-of the-art facilities compliant to the requirements of the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers).

Cast for the job.

Adam started with IMEC as Executive Officer for Training & Development, promoted to Manager in 2011 responsible for the management and development of various IMEC training initiatives, including the IMEC Cadet Training Program in the Philippines, the Rating to Officer scheme and English language courses in Russia.

Adam started as a cadet who did as well the 2-1-1 scheme and with a university degree, the rounds of commercial shipping, chartering, ship management.

His own exposure appears designed to his task as like the cadet he was helped “Dan and myself previously entered the industry as cadets, so we understand what our cadets are going through and what their requirements from us are.”

Greater insight.

Yet, Adam digs deeper amid the challenge of cultural barrier, 4-1/2 years of wait, challenging educational standard, a host more of mentoring of young people into officers at sea --taking care of lives, ships and cargo on whatever waters, on whatever weather.

Adam observes positive changes. The applicants are better (due the K-12 Program of the government), slightly older, with a more informed decision about a career at sea. They also interview under graduates good at mathematics who “… want to make use of their skills in a much more hands-on career.”

Selection process: Complete an application form, submit by email to charm.bautista@imec.org.ph or by post to the IMEC Manila office.

An initial assessment will be given, designed to gauge academic level and ability to achieve the standards of a merchant marine officer.

Those successful will be invited to a two-stage interview. The first, by a rep of one’s chosen college who

will be interested in one’s academic achievements. The second, by an IMEC rep to see whether you’re a deck or engine cadet.

Then, medical examinations before acceptance onto the scheme.

(IMEC member company representatives also interview and selects their cadets) Expansion.

Last November 2017, under-privileged students had a chance for a career with IMEC-AMOSUP AB Engine Program at Don Bosco Youth Center.

The first batch of 40 was given free tuition fees, board and lodging and competency-based education for 10 months, with an additional four-month on-shore, on-the-job-training with one month stay at the MAAP to process documents (passport, seaman book, the like).

The first pilot class had completed college phase and pre-sea training. They are now undergoing their 2 semester at college, will start their OJT in January and are due to graduate in May. Another MOA. Last July, IMEC signed a second Memorandum of Agreement for an Engine Ratings pilot course.

Don Bosco Youth Center offers Technical and Vocational Education and Training Programs (TVET) under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Commission on Higher Education, at Barrio Magsaysay, Tondo, Manila.

Adam rates Don Bosco: “It’s doing very well, we decided to do a second pilot course… we’re also about to do some upgrades in the campus, we’re about to upgrade the dormitory.”

Funding for the programme comes from the IMTF. The ITF Seafarers Trust has recently given a grant to upgrade the dormitory.

Forward.

IMEC has been able to assist its’ members in the recent shipping downturn. Its CBA’s have remained competitive and despite many vessels having been laid up, there is increased new build activity. These new ships require well educated and well trained officers, which the IMEC cadet programme aims to produce.

The EMSA Audit “does remain to be a concern of us. We have got a few ideas in the pipeline” if anything adverse to the Philippines is decided.

There are no cadetship program aside from the Philippines. Adam underscores, while “in Eastern Europe we have recently given substantial one-off payments for training facilities. In the Philippines, it’s being a whole sustainable project…continuous berths is quite big thing…”

Fact is, IMEC inaugurated in November 2017 accessible office at Suite 502, Rufino Building V.A. Rufino Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City for monitoring, recruitment, guidance and support to the cadetship program.

The IMEC CBA don’t just focus on wages but also on sustainability. The AMOSUP CBA, for example, receives contribution from every Filipino seafarer employed for the Philippines IMTF. This ensures we are consistently sustainable – the more Filipino seafarers covered under the CBA, the higher the number of contributions to the IMTF and thus the more seafarers new can reach through training initiatives.

IMEC invests in different projects, like a social media video to train, promote marine engineering high school leaders, invested on hardware from Cebu up to Manila.

For IMEC must stay and be sustainable; not just to stay but lead the future in producing world-class merchant mariners.

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IMEC MOVING FORWARD

IMEC FAMILY DAY Intl Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) held its biggest family day last October 5 at the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) campus in Mariveles, Bataan.

Usually held November, the Family Day was celebrated a month earlier as the IMEC 10th year Cadet Program anniversary celebrations were scheduled Nov 9th at Jen Hotel, Manila.

With IMEC and MAAP officers and staff, cadets and their families were also joined by representatives of sponsoring companies: • •

•

Capt. Rodolfo Radam, CMA CGM Group Capt. Arnold Guia and Capt. Samuel Daguio, V. Ships – Pacific Ocean Manning Ms. Joanne Medina and Ms. Ligaya Villegas, Marlow Navigation

•

Capt. Albert Alde, CF Sharp Crew Management

•

Capt. Nathaniel Dojillo, AngloEastern Ship Management

FAMILY DAY of fun and game, song and dance, band and bonding.

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•

Engr. Erwin Gringo Laylo, BW Shipping Phils

•

Capt. Noriel Cereno, Columbia Ship Management

•

Capt. Antonio Palenzuela, Lydia Mar (Manila)

•

•

Ms. Milea Kim Karla Cabuhat and Ms. Ruthy Belle Ambrad, Friendly Maritime Services

All of the 3 MAAP cadets (1st, 2nd and 5th ) Ten Outstanding Maritime Students of the Phil (TOMSP)

•

First and third in the Oratorical contest and champion in the on-thespot poster making contest.

•

Capt. Russel Rey Mirasol and Mr. Koji Yamada, Phil Transworld Shipping

•

Capt. Hernan Buenaventura and Ms. Francis Faith Dayaday, Heavylift Manila

•

Ms. Ria Pineda and Ms. Ronielyn Bartolome, Mariana Maritime Academy

The party left at 8a.m. from the Manila Yacht Club by the MAAP ferry.

Honored.

Fun in games, dance and singing contests enlivened the crowd. Lunch was followed by drink flip cup games participated by cadets, families, MAAP faculty and sponsoring companies.

MAAP President, VAdm, Eduardo Ma. R. Santos AFP (Ret), proudly announced MAAP won various awards in the recent 23rd National Seafarers’ Day celebrations, like:

Santos exhorted, “…what we’re doing here is developing you to become officers… let’s move forward to continuing family unity. We are family, let us all work together…”

IMEC Training Manager Dan Aldrich Tolentino says the “amazing results” proved again that they are still the Number 1 maritime school in the Philippines and probably in Asia.

At videoke time, three officers were musically outstanding: Tolentino, (Maritime QMR) Legal Officer Milea Kim Karla Cabuhat and a MAAP instructor.

RDBP Solar Power Enterprises captures the sun energy with photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to light homes and power industries.

Clean energy for the world, converting DC to AC current with an inverter for produce the electricity.

RDBP’s proprietor is Chief Engineer Rolando B. Prades, a competent installer with PV System Installation NCII honed by numerous seminars and trainings.

On top, Engr. Prades is an experienced maritime Assessor, last posted as Chief Engineer. He holds a BS Marine Engineering from the Phil Merchant Marine Academy, a Master in Business Administration from the Phil Christian University.

RDBP is inching into the virgin market of Home Solar System.

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TRAINING

Baratang

Aya

Inui

“Knowledge Center in Asia”

KLMA 25TH ANNIVERSARY

by Coca H. Strobar

The horizon.

The “K” Line Maritime Academy (KLMA) celebrates silver anniversary at the “K”Line Hall, K Line Building in Pasay City, October 18th on the theme, “An Institution of Choice for Competency Building.”

A sumptuous dinner followed, complete with a live band.

High profile guests includes Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Rey Leonardo Guerrero and OIC-STCW Executive Director Narciso Vingson, Jr. who led other guests on the ocular of the cuttingedge facilities like simulators and machines onboard used in training.

Inspirations.

KLMA Phils strives to be at the forefront of maritime training, education, and development by proactively responding to the diverse and dynamic demands of the shipping industry.

KLMA Pres. Edgardo Baratang recalls 25 years back, “K” Line Maritime Training Corp (KMTC) was established by Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha to ensure a long term working relationship with the Filipino Seafarer.

Capt. Baratang then welcomed the audience, “…we share with you our journey, renew, strengthen, and confirm our commitment to foster, develop and build up the “K” Line Spirit” in Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha.

Other notable guests with industry partners and KLMA officers are:

KMTC started with only two courses, two instructors and few staff.

Safe ships.

“K” Line RoRo Bulk Ship Management (Kobe) GM Makoto Kono

By 2007, training courses increased to 35; from 1993 to 2007, some 32,000 “K” Line seafarers have attended the training courses.

Engr. Hiroyuki Inui, Manager of “K” Line Seafarers Policy Team, is currently In-charge of management of Filipino, Japanese and other foreign seafarers of “K” Line.

In May 2006, the “K” Line’s global education system (KLMA Concept) was introduced.

It transformed KMTC into one of the “K” Line Maritime Academies (KLMA) in five strategic locations worldwide.

Inui was also assigned to SPT 15 years ago when KLMA was still “K” Line Maritime Training Corp (KMTC) housed in a 7 story “K Line Building along San Marcelino Street Manila.

The KLMA concept is geared towards sustaining safety & quality as well as promoting the expansion of business operations advocated in “K” Line Vision 100 and “K” Line Value for the next Century.

“Back then there was not enough space to conduct training, even though “K” Line was getting bigger.” Inui remembers only two simulators installed at KMTC namely 1) Main Engine Maneuvering Simulator [NABCO MC Engine] and Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier Cargo Handling Simulator.

KRBS (ROHQ Manila) GM Mitsuru Iwase KRBS (Kobe) SMEO/Director Kiyoshi Tokuda Veritas Maritime Pres. Ericson Marquez Ventis Maritime VP Wilfred Garcia OSM Maritime Chairman Adonis Donato Sea Sunshine Pres. Jose Maria Lopez PAMTCI Pres. Arsenio Padilla, Jr. In between “selfies” and bonding, a simple ceremony honored KLMA staff and business partners with loyalty awards.

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The KLMA story was screened in an audiovisual presentation.

To provide effective instruction and handson training, it invested heavily and provided KLMA Phils with state-of-the art training facilities for our seafarers to acquire the skills, proficiency and competency.

It is his first time to visit KLMA Phils. after it was inaugurated in February 2008; very surprised to compare facilities of KMTC 15 years ago, “not only with regard to training

facility but also material and content of all training courses”.

Officer of Bishu Maru LNG carrier, Master of Dynagreen wood chip carrier.

He adds, “K” Line final goal is “to achieve and maintain the safe navigation, efficient cargo handling operations and as well as environmental protection.”

He was Nautical Instructor, a Review Consultant. Capt. Baratang was Asst Crewing Manager (Aboitiz Jebsen, 1995-1996), Training Manager, (“K” Line Maritime Training Corp in 2009).

Manager Inui appeals to continue to provide higher quality training and education to Filipino and other nationals for “further safe ship operation.”

He bowed with Maraming salamat po, Domo arigatougozaimashita.

Will continue.

“K” Line Executive Officer Capt. Kiyotaka Aya, expressed his appreciation to all the stakeholders, including ship management and manning companies and to all those involved in KMTC and KLMA Phils in the past 25 years.

The captain gave assurance that ”K” Line will continue to support KLMA Phils. “to provide quality and global certification, training and development” of seafarers for safe and excellent high quality and environmentally sound operations.

“We have witnessed the completion of the Ocean Breeze Building as well as renovated existing “K” Line building which expanded KLMA’s capability to offer more quality training and to accommodate an even greater number of trainees.”

A year after, he assumed the presidency of KLMA-Phil.

The team.

KLMA-Phils aims to be the “Knowledge Center in Asia,” to continuously educate, develop, enhance and upgrade the competence of the seafarers boarding “K” Line vessels operated by these Principals/ Ship management companies: •

“K” Line Energy Ship Management (K-ENE) with manning agent Ventis Maritime Corp. and “K” Line LNG Maritime Services, Inc.

•

“K” Line Ship Management (Singapore) with manning agent Ventis Maritime Corp.

•

“K” Line Ship Management (Chemical) with manning agent Ventis Maritime Corp.

•

“K” Line RoRo Bulk Ship Management (KRBS) with manning agents: o

Ventis Maritime Corporation

With credentials.

o

Veritas Maritime Corporation

Capt. Baratang holds a BSMT-Nautical Studies and a Masters-Shipping Business Management from the Phil Merchant Marine Academy.

o

New Filipino Maritime Agencies

o

Sea Sunshine Shipping

Accredited.

Baratang was a deck cadet in 1990 and Master in 2009. He served as Training Chief

KLMA Phils is accredited by three major agencies: the Maritime Industry Authority

(MARINA), Panama Maritime Authority (for IMO Model Training Courses) , by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for ship catering services NC 1 and NC 3 Training and Assessment, Class NK ( Nippon Kaiji Kyokai ) for SSBT, BRM BTM Course, and Operational Use of ECDIS Course.

KLMA Phils is also authorized to lecture on Japanese Health Supervisor practical course and Japanese Cooking License course. MILT honors a Philippine license as an equivalent license.

KLMA Phils is accredited by three major agencies: the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Panama Maritime Authority (for IMO Model Training Courses) and by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for ship catering services NC 1 and NC 3 Training and Assessment.

Scholarship.

Select BSMT and BSMarE students are sponsored in accredited maritime institutions like Phil Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) in Zambales, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) in Iloilo, University of Cebu–Maritime Education Training Center (UC-METC) in Cebu, and Lyceum Intl Maritime Academy (LIMA) in Batangas City.

The Maritime Education Scholarship Program (MESP) is at Cristal e- College (CeC) in Panglao Bohol.

“K” Line Mechanical Engineering + Marine Engineering Bridging program (ME+) was established in anticipation of shortage of qualified marine engineering officers. It’s a six-month bridging program with VMA Global College for mechanical engineers to be competent marine engineers.

KLMA partners and guests

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cover story

Ambassador Salinas

A BLUE PHILIPPINES

by Ligaya Caban

Back in 2015, Sec-Gen Koji Sekimizu appointed a distinguished batch of ambassadors for UN’s Intl Maritime Organization (IMO). They are to promote the maritime and seafaring professions and raise awareness of benefits of a career at sea.

China nominated Capt. Xu Zuyuan, president of China Institute of Navigation; Myriam Desrosiers Senatus, was nominated by the Maritime and Navigation Service of Haiti.

In 2017, Monika Breuch-Moritz was appointed after being nominated by the Germany; Capt. John McCann of Canada was endorsed by the Intl Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations.

Credentials.

Salinas was appointed during the 70th anniversary of IMO, a quaint coincidence he takes to mean exerting one’s best.

PTC Founder and Chairman Carlos C. Salinas accepted the honor, more to share his vision for the promotion of Filipino maritime professionals and sustain the country’s leadership in global shipping.

He founded Phil Transmarine Carriers (PTC) in 1979, and in four decades

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transformed it into a diversified holding company (PTC Holdings) with interests in shipping and shipping services, real estate development, energy and fuel distribution, aviation.

The Phil Government has honored him: the TIMONEL Award of MARINA; by the Transport Dept for the promotion of Phil overseas shipping and the establishment of the IMO Regional Presence for the Technical Cooperation in East Asia.

International.

In 1992, King Harald V of Norway, conferred the Royal Order of Merit with Rank of Commander for his “outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Philippine-Norwegian maritime relations.”

Lloyd’s Ship Manager of London gave the Lifetime Achievement and Leadership Excellence Award for his “illustrious career in shipping.”

Presidents.

Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo cited him the Most Inspiring Maritime Service Provider; the Filipino Shipowners Association recognized him with the

Special Lifetime Achievement and Leadership award.

Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III appointed him Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Spain and the principality of Andorra.

On his first year, Ambassador Salinas was invested member of the Real Hermandad de Caballeros de San Fernando (Royal Brotherhood of Knights of Saint Fernando); in 2015, granted Honorary Fellow by the Diplomatic Academy in Spain.

On May 10, 2017, Ambassador Salinas was conferred with the Royal Awardthe Grand Cross of Isabel the Catholic (Gran Cruz de la Orden de Isabel la Catolica) by King Felipe V, represented by his Excellency Luis Calvo, Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines.

This was followed in June by the 2017 Seatrade Maritime Awards Asia and his appointment as IMO Maritime Ambassador.

TOMSP. Ambassador Salinas gave an overview of his thoughts at the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students Awards (TOMSP) last

September 30th.

He recalled immortal lines on the youth: “The youth is the hope of our future” (Dr. Jose P. Rizal); “I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future.” (Homer, Greek poet).

Hence, he feels privileged to be with “the most promising young individuals” in whose “veins flow the energy to fuel the engines of this lifeblood industry.

He considers TOMSP qualifiers “badges yearned by many, Iearned by a few.” collating it with a rhetorical question:” why is there a need to be the best and to rise above the rest? What does it take to be truly outstanding?”

Salinas accepts the responsibility to mold our youth holistically… “it is our aspiration that our students…pursue a passion for excellence at all times and take to heart the conviction that “good enough, is never good enough”.

The ambassador calls on the youth”… to help shift this perspective and help empower generations to follow with a new way of thinking. You have the potential to innovate the infrastructure of the Philippine maritime industry and steer the sector future forward.”

Business Council at Sofitel Phil Plaza hotel.

National agenda.

Salinas highlighted five key principles to establish a National Maritime Agenda – A Blue Philippines: •

Protection and conservation of our aquatic resources.

•

National policy on the safe navigation of our inland waters, near coastal waters, and the main navigational areas.

Salinas closed with a famous sailor’s guide, “to let your dreams set sail.

With the best. “(O)ur dream then was to make our country a key player in global shipping and a major provider of maritime professionals. It was a daunting task … (but) through sheer tenacity, we “emerged at par with the best in the world.

Today, there are roughly 400,000 Filipinos… comprising 25% of global maritime professionals worldwide. And Filipinos continue to be the seafarer of choice, sought after by foreign shipowners because of their competence, dedication, professionalism, service orientation, and ability to communicate in English.

Pleasantries with Transport Sec. Tugade

With this distinction, however, comes the equal responsibility to ensure excellence and competent performance on board. This is a mindset that we need to constantly instill in the present and future generations of Filipino global maritime professionals.”

To stay anchored as you look to new horizons. To ask questions when you do not know the ropes.”

Clarion call.

Special audience.

“I encourage you to take to heart the true essence of being a maritime professional.

Beyond a means to an end, a career in this industry is one that could not only change your or your families’ lives, but that of the entire nation.”

NordCham-Phil is the largest Nordic Chamber of Commerce in Asia. Last June 7th, he spoke at its Maritime Forum before the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Phil, German-Phil Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the EU-Phil Business Network, and the Phil Norway

•

Domestic shipping platform as a viable means to transport our goods in support of national economic development.

•

A national maritime cluster of services built around the key unit of measure – the Ship.

•

Incentives in terms of tax measures, ease of doing business in terms of documentation and certification requirements.

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A BLUE PHILIPPINES

Aligned.

3) Focus on generating inclusive growth employment opportunities within the broad maritime industry.

A product of many years at the Filipino Shipowners Association, A Blue Philippines runs parallel to the IMO’s own enhanced directions.

4) Promote the development of a modern and integrated maritime infrastructure.

The 30th Assembly set the stage for IMO to carry out a seven-point strategic direction for the next five years:

5) Promote a maritime legislative agenda.

1) Improve implementation.

2) Integrate advancing technologies in the regulatory framework.

3) Respond to climate change.

4) Engage in ocean governance.

6) Promote the development of attractive tax regimes.

Honoring outstanding cadets

(7) Ensure organizational effectiveness.

global maritime services center that will fully implement and effectively apply international standards, governance and policy development, while promoting safe and secure shipping and the protection of the marine environment.”

Convergence.

Key principles.

The diplomat that he is, Salinas says, “it is important that the Members are also able to fully support the IMO’s initiatives.

1) A leading intl ship registry promoting a quality, sovereign flag;

5) Enhance global facilitation and security of intl trade.

6) Ensure regulatory effectiveness.

He then lays the premises of “the convergence of interests.”

A Blue Philippines incorporates (1) A Vision for the Phil Maritime Industry as a whole, (2) Five Key Principles, and (3) Seven Action Steps.

The Vision.

The Philippines shall continue to ‘effectively move the world’, “encouraging the development of a fleet of safe, secure, reliable, environmentally sound, and efficient vessels, serving domestic and international markets, supporting national development, promoting stability of trade, and enhancing national security.

The Philippines will also continue to expand its role as a leading provider of global maritime professionals.

We will continue to evolve into a leading

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2) A leading ship building, ship repair and even a recycling destination; 3) A leading provider of global maritime professionals who are products of quality education and training.

4) A global center for maritime support services - ship management, crew management, business process management services and education and training; 5) An active participant in global maritime research and policy development, to include the sustainability of clean domestic waters that are a source of food, minerals, trade and eco-tourism.

Action steps.

I) Establish a formidable research platform.

2) Enhance the role of our Maritime Administration.

7) Promote the equitable use of Cabotage laws, advancing local shipping, without unnecessarily restricting free trade.

Conclusion.

With the adoption of A Blue Philippines, “… We will be able to advance the industry as a whole, in all its facets.

We will be able to attract investors into our country. Our government would be able to create an investment climate and taxation scheme at par with competitive registries across the globe.

We will be able to accelerate our ability to adapt to the industry changes that are continually taking place - the move for more environmentally sustainable operations as well as the advancing disruption of further automation.”

The Renaissance Man that he is, Ambassador Carlos C. Salinas quotes Byzantine Greek philosopher and historian, George Pachymeres who saw not only the importance of shipping but its nobility and lasting impact on the world: “Shipping is a noble activity, useful beyond all others to mankind. It exports what is superfluous, it provides what is lacking, it makes the impossible possible, it joins together men from different lands, and makes every inhospitable island a part of the mainland, it brings fresh knowledge to those who sail, it refines manners, it brings concord and civilization to men, it consolidates their nature by bringing together all that is most human in them.”

2018 TOMSP WINNERS Aspirants nationwide were weaned, declaring Ten Outstanding Maritime Students of the Phil (TOMSP) at formal ceremonies at Hotel H20, Manila, last September 30th.

which recognizes and encourages the hard work and education of future mariners.

Surviving the cut and proclaimed winners are:

Nominees must have shown excellence in academics, competent in practice, good morals and actively engaged in the community.

Junel Kristian M. Semaña, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) – CGSO (Bataan);

•

Christian Gilbert S. Esteban, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) – IMMAJ JSU (Bataan);

•

Carl Oscar B. Peña, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) – IMMAJ JSU (Bataan);

•

John Paul C. Guevarra, Phil Merchant Marine Academy PMMA (Zambales);

•

Ian Christian N. Elardo, DMMA College of Southern Phil (Davao);

•

France Gerard S. Santamena, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation JBLCF – Bacolod (Bacolod City)

•

Ken Arnie T. Tulmo, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation JBLCF – Bacolod (Bacolod City)

•

Jancarl Gregory B. Palacio, University of Cebu – Lapulapu and Mandaue UCLM (Cebu);

•

• •

•

Winners each received PhP15,000 in cash, honor plaque and review scholarship from Cebu Gems.

Let us not waste the legacy that Capt.

Juan Dela Cruz left. Instead, enrich and develop it. Other nationalities will challenge our resolve by stereotyping the Filipino seafarer.

•

TOMSP is part of the 23rd National Seafarers’ Day (NSD) led by Apostleship of the Seas (AOS). The nationwide search started in 2010.

Fight back! Not by using any superior force, but by proving they should not belittle our Kabayans, because we are world-class seafarers.

•

Do not just sit down and wait for whatever. Let us showcase to the world that the Filipinos are truly:

On-the-spot essay.

John Paul Guevarra, 4th Year at PMMAZambales, won the on-the-spot essay writing contest.

o

Guevarra’s father Eduardo is a butcher; mother Edith runs a carinderia (food stall).

They are three, elder sister a business administration graduate while the youngest is six-year old.

Maka-diyos, god-fearing. Place God in our heart in the performance of our duties… Be the light that will lead those who are lost in times of distress onboard.

o

He is grateful to BW Shipping for the sponsorship, the opportunity to come on board, “big help in improving my abilities.”

Makakalikasan, pro-environment.

We must obey the regulations regarding the protection of the marine environment.

o

Makatao, humane. Respect your crewmates and learn to keep your feet on the ground.

o

Makabansa, nationalist. Let us not forget we are Filipinos. We have the duty to maintain the prestige of our motherland.

From his piece.

•

Daimler Daves D. Nisco, Malayan Colleges (Laguna); Aison B. Belarmino, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA , UPHSD (Las Piñas)

The Philippines is a leader in producing world-class merchant mariners. Sustaining “the culture of excellence” is TOMSP

are still globally competitive. Study hard, prove that Filipino seafarers are world-class seafarers.

•

•

Shipping companies are choosing other nationalities over Filipinos as the aspiring merchants of the seven seas, what can we do to reclaim our legacy?

The young blood should be the game changers; we should start the change not only for ourselves but also for others by being perfect examples.

The sun for excellence in maritime for Filipinos is not yet setting. We

Guevarra closes with “The greatest mistake in life is not trying at all.”

And believes it is not late to reclaim our legacy --- that “We are not Filipinos because we are world class seafarers; we are world class because we are Filipino seafarers.”

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education

DCSP BOT and Contributors

On Its 25th Anniversay

ONWARDS, DMMA DCSP! Covered exclusively by Marino World, ABS and SunStar, the DMMA College of Southern Philippines (DCSP) 25th anniversary celebrations of October 12 begun 2 pm at its campus on Tigatto Road, Buhangin, Davao City.

Guests were impressed by the newly installed ship bridge and engine room simulator facilities, state-of the art, requiring millions of investment.

Cocktails followed with dinner at the Marco Polo Ballroom, Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City.

Current count places about 8,000 degree holders passing its portal, revisited by an AVP of notable moments in its 25-year journey:

08 August 1993 - Ground breaking of DMMA in Ecoland, Davao City

2001 - Basic Training under CHEd Accreditation commenced

10 October 1993 - Academy building inaugurated and opened

2005 to 2015 - Adoption of the transitional Red-to-Blue Ocean Paradigm for inclusive institutional innovation, both infrastructure and business aspects.

1996 - Government Recognition for BSMT May 1997 - Ground breaking of the new academy in Buhangin 1998 - Government Recognition for BSMarE November 1998 - DMMA officially relocated to Buhangin site 1999 - DMMA received its first DNV Certification

2006 - Marlow Navigation instituted Culinary Training with funding from Deutsche Investitionsund Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG) 2006 - Norwegian Ambassador Stale Torstein Risa visits DMMA in support of the NSA Cadetship Program 2006 - NSA Cadetship Program started 2008 – DBP grants Endowment for Education Program 2009 - MTAC by MTC and JEEP Curricular Program 2010 - DMMA received the Seal of National Excellence as Outstanding Maritime School at the 30th Annual People’s Choice Awards

With partners and MARINA’s Dinopol.

2010 - US Ambassador Harry Thomas visited DMMA on the introduction of JEEP Program.

2012 - PJMCC gave DMMA the Category B High Performing School Awardee for BSMT MSAP 2007, 2008 and 2009.

2012 -MTAC by MARINA

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2014 - UFS gave DMMA the Outstanding Maritime School Award 2015 - President Rodrigo R. Duterte guested at the DMMA for the Seafarer’s Symposium 2016 - DMMA started offering the Senior High School Level September 2018 - DMMA in PAES-P by IAMU (Peer-Assisted Evaluation SchemePhilippines) Messages.

with our commitment to keep abreast with technology for the future. We hope that this silver turns into gold, into diamond.”

achieve the plans we have instilled for the college, and face the events and challenges there might be for us in 2043.”

Pres. Eusebio, before speaking, called on stage and formally introduced “the men and women behind DMMA Colleges of Southern Philippines.”

Summarizing, he mentioned the inauguration of educational and faculty facilities and the pledge to “… continue to build and grow, and increase the bar to the highest quality of education and training.”

“It is hard to believe that it has been twenty-five years since a little more of an idea from a group of seafarers would have thought to engage and commit themselves to establish an institution for maritime education.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte wrote its “… remarkable milestone is a testament to your unwavering commitment to hone young individuals who are well equipped to face “ travails of their chosen career.

Golden token.

The President “ask you to join us in forging a stronger young citizenry who will be catalysts for sustainable development.”

Councilor Pilar Braga read Chair Paramio, NTC-M the message of Davao City Grimstad, Pres Eusebio Mayor Sara Z. DuterteCarpio : “It is my hope that DCSP will be one I would like to think that our 25 years with the City Government of Davao of success is attributed to hard work, in its continued furtherance of quality, commitment to our employees and their accessible, affordable education for families, commitment to our core values, Dabawenyos as key priority area.” commitment to service and commitment to our stakeholders and industry partners.”

Braga adds, “…I am proud of your school because my grandson is also a graduate of your school…truly your school is a landmark for Davao City, so when we talk about maritime education, we talk about the DMMA.” Core values.

Board of Trustee Chairman Rogelio A. Paramio acknowledged the “Blue Ocean” management strategy by DCSP President Lorenzo Edwin F. Eusebio. This, coupled with commitment and cooperation of all working as a family, has been very effective in coping with challenges, like the K+12 reforms.

Capt. Paramio “… aims to soar higher

Eusebio also announced DMMA will forge partnership with RJH Consultancy for the training program of Alfa Laval in the formation and cultivation of marine engineering students, the development and enhancement of the alumni, as well as specialized engineers to be truly global marine professionals.

Eusebio particularly thanked their industry partners, MARINA, CHED, TESDA, NSA, DBP, PJMCC and IMMAJ, as well as PAMI and PAMTCI with the sponsoring companies.

Heads up.

He believes, “… At the heart of these accomplishments has lies a great deal of hard work, dedication, and willingness to take risks to benefit our stakeholders and industry partners. However, now is not the time to rest, but to remain mindful that the world is an ever-changing place.

Norwegian Training CenterManila Managing Director Erlend Grimstad recalled the Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA) has been on since 1993 to cooperate with the very best of maritime schools; that since 2006 the Norwegians have had 574 cadets educated at DMMA. “It’s hard work everyday, dedication, commitment… not stagnant, not stopping up, not complacent…that everything has been done” to meet the needs of the future.

On behalf of NSA, the Norwegian maritime family and the NSA cadet program, Grimstad awed the crowd with a token of appreciation, a 30-k golden bell --- symbolic of a golden friendship.

No where was more meaningful the toast led by DCSP Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and Davao City Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre: to the partnership that we had through the test of time.

Cheers!

We will continue to move forward to

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                           

AMOSUP Seamen’s Training Center/ MAAP Capitol University Maritime Training Center Cebu Reliable and Excellent Seafarers Training Center Center for Knowledge and Advance Training Inc. (CKAT) Competence Maritime Professionals & Sea Staff Training Center, Inc. Consolidated Training Systems, Inc. Deckman Sea Experts, Inc. DMMA College of Southern Philippines European Training and Competence Center Inc. Excellence and Competency Training Center Far East Maritime Foundation, Inc. Giga Mare Inc. Great Seas Mariners Training and Assessment Center Inc IDESS Maritime Centre (Subic) Inc. Internship Navigation Training Center, Inc. (ISNTC) John B. Lacson Foundation Training Center K-Line Maritime Academy Philippines, Inc. Lyceum of the Philippines Maritime Training Center Magsaysay Institute of Shipping Magsaysay Training Center Mariana Academy of Maritime Studies, Inc. Mariners’ Polytechnic Training Center Mariners’ Polytechnic College Foundation-Baras Mariners’ Polytechnic College Foundation –Legaspi Maritime Technological and Allied Services Meridian International Maritime Training Center National Maritime Polytechnic Navigator International Maritime Training & Assessment Center Inc.

                         

New Simulator Center of the Philippines, Inc. Norwegian Training Center NYK-Fil Maritime E- Training, Inc. Ocean link Institute Inc. Philippine Center for Advance Maritime Simulation and Training Phil Asia Maritime Services Training Center, Inc. PNTC Colleges- Maritime Training Center Philippine Seafarers Training Center Philsin College Foundation, Inc. Protect Marine Deck & Engine Officers of The Philippines, Inc. Rina Academy Philippines Inc. Sealand Skills Development Center Inc. SEAMAC International Training Institute Southern Institute for Maritime Studies STK Maritime and Technical Training Center, Inc. St. Therese MTC College Technological Institute of the Philippines The Maritime Training Center of the Philippines Tonsberg International Training Center Towers Maritime Training Center United Marine Training Center, Inc. University of Cebu University of the Visayas VMA Training Center WSP Maritime Training Center Inc. Zamboanga Maritime Training Center, Inc.

ALL FOR A STRONGER PAMTCI! PAMTCI Offers:

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Due Credible Content

PRINT MEDIA FOREVER A London-based consultancy firm, We Are Social, reports the Philippines has 67-million Internet users spending an average of 3.57 hours per day mostly on social media websites.

The burgeoning trend to digital media has spawned the fear other mass media may be on death throngs or passé like radio, tv and print.

Smart money disagree given moves by smart moneymakers: • Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezoz acquired The Washington Post for $250-million; • The Koch Brothers took for $650-million three print icons, Time, Sports Illustrated and People; and • Bio-tech mogul Patrick Soon-Shiong got the Los Angeles Times for $500-million.

The tremendous popularity of digital communication outfits may wane given the proliferation of fake news, paid trolls, and unverifiable sources, among other things.

On the opposite side, print credibility may be strengthened by “… stringent editorial standards and guided by journalistic ethics.”

These protocols may “… produce content with greater integrity compared to those online.”

The quotes are from United Print Media Group (UPMG), organizers of “Printegrity” for the 2018 Print Congress with the theme, “Innovating Print Through Credible Content.”

The event will be on November 15 to 16 at the Manila Hotel.

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Chair and CEO Joel Espineli

CFO Chichi Espineli

Just On Second Year

TOPMAST BANNERS WELL Simple celebrations ushered in the second year of Topmast with officers and staff, families and close friends at Comida China de Manila, Pasig City last September 20th.

Pastor Peter Hauje, a missionary pastor from Papua New Guinea and a good friend of Mr. Espineli, led the thanksgiving and prayers; later, with song numbers and a magic show to the delight of the party.

Chairman and CEO Joel Espineli opened the celebrations while his wife, Topmast CFO, Chichi Espineli, delivered the closing remarks.

Soft Oy, a leading maritime software developer from Finland.

Topmast is also a distributor of NAVTOR, a leading force in innovative e-Navigation solutions and supplier of navigational products and services for the shipping industry.

NAVTOR’s innovative software solution is an easy way to track, report and manage vessel and fleet movement. It ensures full overview of chart usage and update history, vessel tracking and service management for navigators on board and ship management on shore.

The software is available as PC software and a mobile app, included with the subscription to NAVTOR’s ENC services.

Present with their families were members of the Board of Directors Kristine Gazo (GM and CMO), Bong Burgos (Technical and Managing Throw-back in genre, acoustic music Director) and JR Dequina (Chief Technical Officer).

Integrity.

Espineli took pride on accomplishments of the first 24 months, certain “Topmast is yet to create history, being the youngest among players in the maritime industry.”

But he shall “take the higher ground.

That we shall never compromise to unethical business practices. To be very professional in the delivery of our products and services and to provide only the best solutions and systems to the Philippine maritime industry.”

Survived.

Topmast started during trying times when piracy tested to the hilt the quality of trainings of Filipino seafarers. MARINA

Other guests included friends from the maritime industry and associates from sister companies like Philkairos and CleanHAUL Environmental. Espineli, having business interests in the environmental service sector as well.

Leading edge.

Topmast started with life-saving equipment and other maritime supplies.

It was later accredited as the exclusive Philippine distributor for Image

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With the parents

released STCW Advisory 2016-26, which bans the “use of unlicensed, cloned, imitation or pirated simulators, computer-based training (CBT) and other similar equipment, devices or instruments including softwares or hardwares, books and other publications for training, education and/or assessment of seafarers”.

“The harvest is now visible. Topmast shall continue to pursue its moral practice of business, and with the help of our foreign principals, we will continue to strive and provide the most technically advanced systems and solutions to our customers.”

It was like manna from heaven ---Topmast advocacy fortified into law!

He acknowledged two main principals: (1) Image Soft Oy of Finland, for providing DNV GL certified maritime solutions, full-mission bridge simulators, to include arctic and polar waters operations; (2) NAVTOR of Norway, partner in supplying e-Navigation solutions

Taking the higher ground, morally, is always difficult, and oftentimes discouraging. Yet, Topmast has committed its service not only to business but to God and country.

Moral ground.

Espineli waxed sentimental that “business returns, though important, come second to staying committed to principles and keeping values and not compromising to sharp business practices.”

He projects “all that hardwork has started to pay-off these past few months. And can say that Topmast has emerged!”

Magic show impressed audience

and global navigational products and services.

Pastor Hauje

Throw-back in genre, acoustic music

With GM Gazo, MD Burgos and CTO Dequina

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TOPMAST BANNERS WELL

Espineli and Dequinawith Image Soft CEO Matti Suuronen and Aker Arctic Jukka-Pekka Sallinen

CrewConnect.

Topmast will again join Image Soft at the CrewConnect Global Conference & Exhibition at Sofitel Phil Plaza in Manila, November 5-7, being the exclusive local distributor for Image Soft Oy, the leading maritime software developer. The team will be at Booth No. 11 throughout the CrewConnect event.

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

Growing.

Topmast is now serving pre-eminent maritime training centers and schools like the New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NEWSIM), with Full-Mission Bridge Simulator and four Mini-Bridges in its Makati training facility, and another one soon to be set-up in their Iloilo training center.

Our Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela City, carries Topmast Engine Room Simulator and ECDIS. Metro Dumaguete College has also recently closed a deal with Topmast for a Navigational Stand-alone Simulator.

IS Full Mission Bridge Simulator for Arctic Training is the leading solution for maneuvering simulated vessels in ice. Engine Room Simulator tops the portfolio.

Maritime schools and training centers now patronizes Topmast’s Image Soft being technically advanced, reasonably priced and more user-friendly.

Espineli is certain he could contribute to the industry by promoting a very good product such as Image Soft. The primary feature software security, tightly safeguarded from being cloned or pirated.

Added bonus is the excellent after-sales service from the Topmast Team with free technical support and consultations, very quick response time being based locally.

Image Soft’s Arctic Navigation on its realism

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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

WELCOMING DIGITALIZATION The world has changed so much, alarmingly fast-paced since dawn of the Space Age in the 60’s.

Innovations came about giving birth to the era of the Information Age, the Digital Age. Computers and technology arise and became part of man’s daily affairs.

In our maritime industry, startups have emerged aiming to transform it.

But somehow. it has remained quite traditional. The shipping industry has not adapted early to technological advancements; gradual transformations eventually transpired.

For instance, in communications between vessel and onshore staff: started from using telephones to telex in the 50’s, then fax in the 80’s, e-mail in the 90’s, and now, Skype and Yahoo. Amazingly, today the shipping industry is advancing at a much faster phase.

Technologies impacting on the maritime sector are no different from what we see impacting all other sectors. These include greater use of automation, IoT

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(Internet of Things), robotics, drones and intelligent systems and digitalization.

Consequently, top management support moves to create and develop these new technologies to improve quality of jobs onboard, attain smoother vessel management and operations ensuring optimum results on efficiency, profitability and meeting customer requirements.

Digitalization holds the power to transform the shipping industry. Ready or not, these innovative solutions are here to stay. An emerging technology is believed to take place within 10 years which would truly bring shipping to greater heights.

Thus, the creation of remotely controlled ships or unmanned or “automated” ships piloted by people onshore from a command center. These ships’ operation will be limited in short sea shipping, reducing operating expenses by 40%, at the least. Less manpower on board means less wages to pay.

Human error and accidents may be

minimized, less fuel consumption and more cargo space are seen to add value to the business. But the importance of the “human factor” in the manning and operation of the ships should not be discounted. After all, humans are still superior to machines in many ways, most importantly for critical and rational thinking.

Global shipping industry has dramatically changed over time getting more demanding and complex as modern systems and advance technology dictate sustainable growth and success. As times become more challenging and exciting, digitalization opens up huge opportunities for partnerships and collaboration, innovation and economic development for a better standard of life and business.

In short to adapt, we got to ride the waves of change fearlessly as the famous quotation, “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”

Good luck to all of us as we face tomorrow right now.

Deckhand, John Manginsay, Dr. Esguerra

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The big debate: mental & health issues of seafarers

CONNECTIVITY & WHY IT MATTERS

by Bahadir Ozdemir

With 360 million square kilometres of ocean and more than 93,161 commercial vessels at sea, how do seafarers make it work?

Either way, one thing is for sure, there are a staggering number of people working on ships that are experiencing intense emotions of anxiety, hopelessness, negativity and helplessness for extended periods of time and what’s more, the figure appears to be growing.

Why are mental & health issues more common for offshore workers?

Although psychological issues are very common amongst seafarers, the mental health of those working offshore has only recently started to receive the attention it deserves. So, why are seafarers more likely to suffer from mental health issues than those working on land?

Lack of communication with the outside world

Physical demands Seafaring is a physically demanding occupation. Nowhere has this been better expressed than by the International Maritime Health Association when it says, “It has been established that seafaring is one of the most physically demanding professions in one of the most dangerous work environments: the sea.”

Long working hours on vessels, split shift patterns which account for a lack of good night’s sleep, routine and general lack of interesting activities raise the high levels of fatigue crew members experience offshore.

Also with an eye on bottomline, the reduction in number of crew members on-board ships is generally seen as the main reason for increased levels in physical and psychological stress offshore: crew are mentally and physically exhausted from their workload.

Away from home between six months to a year, unable to see family and often with limited access to the internet to use communication platforms such as Facebook, Skype or WhatsApp to keep in contact with loved ones: times can be very tough on a vessel and feelings of loneliness and isolation can soon start to creep in.

Multinational crews: the challenge to make bonds stick

Social isolation compounded by quick turnaround times in port

Work related stress offshore can soon escalate, with common contributing factors, including; the demands of the job; the level of control seafarers have over their work; the support received from management and colleagues; relationships at work; the seafarers’ role in the organisation; and change and how it is managed, all playing their part.

With an increase in social isolation compounded by quick turnaround times in port, a seafarer’s life very similar to that of an inmate: the ship becoming a floating prison. As a result, and very sadly, depression, psychotic breakdown, and even suicide are relatively common, documented real-life consequences that result from social isolation of vulnerable crew.

The majority of shipping companies employ multinational crew, which introduces its own set of problems such as the language barrier and potential cultural isolation instead of meaningful inclusion.

Bullying and harassment: experienced by almost 50% of seafarers!

Bullying and harassment at sea can have serious consequences for the

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physical and emotional health of a ship’s crew, such as decreased motivation, increased absenteeism and a fall in productivity. A deterioration of working conditions that comes with huge organisational, economic and potential legal consequences too. Given the serious consequences of bullying and harassment, it’s shocking that according to research carried out by Nautilus International, almost 50% of seafarers have personally experienced bullying, harassment or discrimination at sea: this is a common problem.

Harassment and bullying can take a wide variety of forms, ranging from verbal aggression, ill-treatment, cyber-bullying or sexual discrimination through to various forms of physical aggression resulting in serious injuries.

Aggression may take the form of body language, intimidation, contempt or disdain. While the physical effect of harassment and bullying is fairly easy to identify on account of the obvious external signs, the same cannot be said of the emotional effects of harassment and bullying which are often denied or distorted. Enhancing the problem, there’s evidence to show that a large number of seafarers who’ve experienced bullying or harassment, don’t feel able to make a complaint, for fear that it wouldn’t be taken seriously.

Solving the problem We need to focus on mental health and wellbeing on-board. Seafarers need someone safe that they can turn to if they have problems from home or workrelated problems. If this is not caught early it can lead to other things escalating in the future.

Also – being able to communicate on demand at any port of call is crucial to maintain a sense of self, family and friends. We are trying our best to do our part as Sim4crew.

Happy conference

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SEAFARER TO SHIPOWNER Capt. Gaudencio “Jess” Morales bought last August a Cebu-based Metro ferry from Atty. Augusto Go, president of University of Cebu (UC), the biggest maritime school in the region.

Morales is a veteran mariner respected for his “pay-back” socio-civic projects.

His business ventures are diversified, prominently in maritime, real estate, finance and services.

Many consider the deal was based more on ethics than money.

Morales was one of the thousands marooned Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Intl Airport when a Xiamen Air plane skidded off the runway. But he was able to pay Saturday, the first of the many bids.

Atty. Go was offered PhP10-million more, prominently by a Cordova, Cebu cooperative with a close intermediary.

Edges were already negotiated but Go is

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a man of his word: the first to pay gets the ferry.

Actually, it was not just on that technicality alone but of over two decades of partnership. Morales’ manning agencies have sponsored cadets from UC for 20 years (since Metro Ferry started operating).

The multi-million package takes six ferry boats operating at 100-300 capacity 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., logging 40 turn-arounds.

To perk the deal, the vessels were renovated, dry-docked to be sea worthy.

The captain used guts more than the usual due diligence mantra. He grabbed the opportunity, instead of founding a new company which may have to gestate for decades.

This one gives early returns: Pier 3 Osmena-Lapulapu route takes more than 10,000 pax a day, another 10,000 to 15,000 wait north of Mactan and

requested by the Mayor to be served.

Morales has commissioned four ships from shipbuilders in Cebu, one already being constructed to ply the channel between Mactan island and the Cebu mainland.

Other players are attracted by the huge market, also an immediate solution to the horrendous traffic along major roads and on the two bridges linking Mandaue City with mainland Cebu and Lapu-Lapu City with Mactan Island.

Service deteriorated under Go occupied with other business as he battles advancing age. Hiring more people practically unsupervised proved unproductive.

ISP. Morales plans to transfer 20% shares to the ISP Coop, the whole equity should the coop gathers the necessary funds.

After all, he bought the ferry for the coop.

The coop has more than PhP100-million subscriptions; applied for increase in capitalization to PhP200-million in just three years.

The Integrated Seafarers of the Phil (ISP) continues its lead in the reintegration of seafarers, a fact recognized by the government agencies.

Morales now chairs the Center for OFW Reintegration and Empowerment (CORE), a newly-formed organization of seabased and landbased agencies.

Morales was former president of the Phil Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association and Director of Phil Japan Manning and Consultative Council. He has earned major national recognition from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Professional Regulation Commission

(PRC).

He founded the Gaudencio C. Morales Foundation for the less fortunate through education, livelihood, community development, scholarship grants, donations and relief operations.

Advocacy.

Morales seeks a change in the mindset of the Filipino seafarers and their families, including maritime stakeholders, that the seafaring profession may overarch to other ventures with proper reintegration as written on his book, Gabay ng Marino.

He also wishes seafarers should retire at 55, giving way to fresher legs as the senior seafarers enjoy life on land joined with his loved ones.

Government reintegration program lacks serious monitoring of what is happening to this profession. But there is interest

in NRCPO, OWWA and Congress. ISP shall always provide the flash point.

Morales’ venture in Metro Ferry gives him a window to introduce the international standard of management in domestic shipping, in line with the MARINA MIDP modernization program.

Morales sincerely believes he can leverage private assets with public resources. He explains “… we can borrow 10x our subscription.” He points to Landbank, DBP, PNB, all supportive of cooperatives instead of catering to just a family or power block.

Capt. Morales holds to the faith that once seafarers are empowered, dreams maybe realized.

And realized big, as his did --- from a poor farm boy to the wealth he shares well for his pay-back socio civic commitments.

Renovated for better service

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Major Opening

MOL MAGSAYSAY MARITIME ACADEMY

Magsaysay Ho and MOL Ikeda with VIPs

Tokyo-Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. - MOL President & CEO Junichiro Ikeda announced the inaugural ceremony for MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) jointly operated by MOL and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation (MMC) and held September 12th in Salitran, Dasmariñas City, the Philippines.

time that young Filipino people have enormous potential on the global stage.”

Some 700 attended headed by Senator Grace Poe, Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade, H.E. Koji Haneda, Japanese Ambassador-designate to the Philippines, President and CEO Doris Teresa Magsaysay-Ho of A. Magsaysay (Magsaysay), MMC’s holding company and MOL President & CEO Ikeda.

Aiming to be the top maritime academy in the Asia-Oceania region, MOL drew upon its extensive experience and knowledge gained through years of training top-quality Filipino mariners to be leaders in the global maritime industry.

Ms. Magsaysay-Ho assured “… we are committed to develop the maritime professional of the future, working at sea in a safe and complaint work environment and ashore in a dynamic Philippines.”

Panama Ambassador Rolando Guevarra Alvarado and Canada Ambassador John Holmes were joined by Transport U/Sec Philip Judan and MARINA Administrator Rey Leonardo Guerrero.

The company has high hopes that this rising generation will play active roles and take leadership in organizations that demand advanced, specialized education, including safety and operational management, and business support.

Ikeda underscored, “MMMA symbolizes the strong ties linking Japan and the Philippines. MOL has believed for a long

(In advance of the inauguration, MMMA held an entrance ceremony with about 300 students and their families last July

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23rd and classes began August 6.)

As Filipino seafarers play an essential part in its vessel operations, MOL aims to ensure the ongoing recruitment and training of high-quality seafarers by establishing MMMA. This should further improve marine technical skills, one of the items MOL calls for improving in its “Rolling Plan 2018,” as the company works toward becoming the world leader in safe operation.

The MMMA is a four-year merchant marine university and boarding school on Salitran, Dasmariñas City, Cavite province, about 30km south of Manila, Philippines.

The site is about 13.2 hectares; built-in floor area, about 30,000m2.

It had a soft-opening last August 6th, and may accept 300 students annually (150 in the navigation school, another 150 in the engine school).

Cadets “selfie” with a Philippine Senator.

The Embassy.

Ambassador Haneda attended the inaugural rites of MMMA. He was with Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade and other important guests.

The academy has a teaching faculty of experienced instructors and state-of-theart training facilities. It is co-founded by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, a leading shipping company in the world partnering with the local Magsaysay Group to secure workready seafarers as technology advances.

Haneda says Filipinos account for 75% of seafarers aboard Japanese merchant fleets. He hopes competent seafarers working globally will be fostered in the academy given both companies’ accumulated knowledge.

Magsaysay and IMMAJ-PJMCC

INAUGURATE CRUDE OIL TANKER SIMULATOR

Magsaysay Learning Resources (MLRI), in cooperation with IMMAJ-PJMCC Foundation, has inaugurated the Crude Oil Tanker Cargo Handling Simulator (COTS) last August 23rd at the Magsaysay Training Center at the Times Plaza Building, Manila.

modern double-hulled, very large crude carrier (VLCC), as well as interactive screens showing piping diagram in the pump room and upper deck.

The cutting-edge simulator is powered by Kongsberg, the world’s leader in maritime training simulation.

MLRI will deliver trainings on safe cargo handling operations, ballasting and deballasting systems, crude oil washing, inert gas system, hazard identification and prevention, and cargo team management.

World class.

Symbolic token.

The COTS is a training equipment for officers and crew on safe cargo handling operations onboard crude oil tankers. It features a fully functional replica of the cargo control console and monitor in a

At the event, a replica of the new simulator modelled after MT Kiho was turnedover by Kongsberg’s Tor Kristoffersen to Capt. Koichi Akamine, Chairman of Intl Mariners Management Association of Japan

(IMMAJ); Dr. Conrado Oca, President of Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Phil (AMOSUP); Capt. Teodoro Quijano, VP, Phil-Japan Manning Consultative Council (PJMCC); Doris Magsaysay-Ho, Pres. and CEO of A. Magsaysay; Alexander Querol, MLRI president.

The acquisition of the advanced simulator mirrors the partnership between maritime stakeholders of the Phil and Japan for the advancement of Filipino seafarers boarding Japanese-owned, managed and/ or controlled vessels, enabling Filipinos to grow in the global shipping industry.

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Tobias

Tenorio With the lead panel, Jimenez (MPCF), Kashiwagi (Maine Marine), Tenorio (Marlow)

philippinehousedesigns.com

A CLICK TO AFFORDABLE HOUSE DESIGNS

Just click, and you have a house design: ready-to-build, climate-responsive. And for as low as PhP10,000, a fraction of standard costs.

This is from the Philippine House Designs (PHD), backed by experienced architects and engineers, set to be the leading e-commerce site for ready-to-build house designs.

Proponents.

Managing Director Risha Carla Tobias is the lead designer — University of the Philippines graduate, honed as an architect in Singapore. While she had drawn buildings and structures, she feels these are just numbers and dimensions, designing for business efficiency.

But her heart is in designing homes, vibrant for the family life. Sometimes she gets to know the owners and become real friends, practically becoming “family”.

Marketing Manager Liezel Tenorio, is youngest child of Capt. Leopoldo Tenorio, CEO-Operations of Marlow Navigation, one of the biggest of manning agencies that employs thousands of merchant mariners.

Liezel holds a BS-Commerce-Corporate Management from the Assumption College, Masters-Management from the Ateneo Professional School and MastersManagement from Ecole Superieure des Sciences Commerciales d’ Angers (ESSCA-France).

She is from a family of seafarers and knew that one of her father’s priorities raising

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their family was to build them a home.

Many seafarers fail to provide homes for their families given uncontrolled costs, mostly on unprogrammed expenses which PHD now solves.

Smart design.

PHD recognizes that majority of their market are OFWs. With their hardearned money, it is important to have a suitable design at reasonable costs. PHD knows it doesn’t stop there. Maintaining a house comes with costs also. So PHD has considered the local climate by maximizing wind and minimizing the hot sun into the house. Proper shading and windows provide cooler homes, less need for air-conditioners and fans --- savings on electric bills!

PHD offers four options, depending on your building requirements. These drawings are sufficient for an experienced contractor/builder to construct the house.

For customized designs and details, just email PHD for a quotation.

(1) Architectural set - ideal if you just need inspiration or already have a contractor who can handle the engineering drawings and implementation.

(2) PDF set – drawings are sent for your reproduction but are not signed by professionals. Ideal if one does not have AutoCAD, if building permits not required, and just need inspiration for own construction.

(3) CAD set - AutoCAD files will be sent for your own printing, complete for construction but not signed by

professionals. Ideal if your contractor/ builder will do some revisions, and you have professionals to sign and seal for you.

(4) COMPLETE set - 6 sets of signed and sealed drawings and documents for building permit submission and subsequently, for construction, will be sent to you. Owners are requested to furnish PHD: 1. Lot plan or TCT; 2. Survey plan by geodetic engineer; 3. Soil test results; 4. Building permit forms; 5. Subdivision design guidelines/ deed of restrictions (if applicable); 6. Address where blueprints will be sent.

Your choice.

Payment mode is owner’s choice whether through banks or other services. Just note PHD will credit on the net amount it receives.

Should design not fit the lot, just email PHD a copy of your lot plan at sales@ philippinehousedesigns.com and the PHD code of the house design you like. PHD will give free advise on adjustments.

Anticipates.

PHD covers just about anything that can be anticipated: design adjustments, material grades, price estimates and escalation, legal requirements, modifications, proprietary rights, submissions and timelines.

More importantly, one only pays if one agrees to the quotation.

Visit the PHD website, get very useful info on its blog content (even on financing).

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The oceans may be vast, but we’re always close. 24/7 service provided from 28 offices, located in major shipping and financial centers around the world.

Choose to fly the world’s local flag.

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