Marino world December 2015 Edition

US$8 €12 ¥200

VOLUME X NO. 4 ISSN 1908-0972

PHP120

OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2015

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Pres Dell Supapo gives first pick to PAMTCI.

TANDEM WITH TRANSAS AND WRIGHTWAY

PLSE LEAPS FORWARD Consistent growth demanded larger offices for the Philippine Life Saving Equipment (PLSE), more so that it marks a footprint in the Asia Pacific region.

PLSE must centralize corporate staff as it expands, for flexibility and better servicing increasing customer visits and meetings. Thus, it moved to larger and better facilities at the 8th floor of Dohle House-Manila, 30-38 Gil J. Puyat Avenue, corner Bautista Street, Makati City.

The new offices have excellent amenities, posh and the very best the city has to offer. For one, the common areas have drop-in facilities for clients.

The clean, modern spaces encourage collaboration --- with more conference and meeting rooms enabling the hosting of multiple and larger client visits to PLSE headquarters, also base of its marketing services.

• • • • • • •

Trustworthy Life-saving Equipment: • • • • • • • • • •

The move created better opportunities to highlight principal assets, its technical and caring staff and a corporate policy that keeps faith in the future; a management commitment to clients in the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region.

• •

Great products.

•

State-of-the-art Simulators: •

Bridge

Engine Crane Cargo handling VTS / VMS High Voltage Circuit Electronic Chart Radar

Lifejackets Lifebouy Immersion Suites Lifeboat for Tanker and Cargo Partially enclosed Lifeboat Free Fall Lifeboat Fast Rescue Boat Totally Enclosed Lifeboats Davit Off shore and Marine Evacuation Center Throw-Overboard/Liferaft Special Liferaft

Expert services.

With quality items and professional services, PLSE is a one-stop source:

•

Installations and commissioning of lifeboat and davits Liferaft annual inspection, augmented by professional training

• •

and allied marine services.

Repair of lifeboats Door-to-door transport solutions through Roll-Lift and Roll-Dock

PAMTCI gets first pick.

PLSE Pres. Dell Supapo presented a proactive training package at the Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) Annual General Membership Meeting at the Century Park hotel, Pasay City, last December 8th.

The core is HELM, Human Element Leadership Management training module, with or without use of simulators. This is from a partnership between Transas Marine-Pacific and WrightWay Consultancy forged during the LSM Asia Pacific Manning and Training conference.

Capt. John Wright is Managing Director of WrightWay, also a training firm based in London.

It specialises in Workforce Involvement and Human Performance. The aim is to assist companies become world-class in safety and business management.

WrightWay’s goal is for its client’s employees to return to their loved ones every day ‘with all of their bits’; using WrightWay’s tools to achieve world class business and safety performance.

The PLSE Team

It believes 21st century business will either harness its people’s abilities effectively, or it is not long for this world!

Clients include BC Ferries, Carnival Corporation, V Ships, BHP Billiton, Conoco Phillips, Total Exploration & Drilling, Calmac Ferries.

Human performance.

HELM (or CRM) is offered in the UK

by WrightWay, with a partner which provides full mission simulator; may also be available overseas at training establishments with suitable simulation facilities.

When applied on the shipping industry, ‘Human Performance’ training provides officers and their company managers with an insight into working behaviours, practices and attitudes.

Thereafter, it encourages them to discover for themselves which ‘human factors’ they need to modify to improve upon their own and their team’s safety performance that positively affect company safety record.

Course aims.

The program aspires to develop understanding of human factor concepts and how managerial actions influence, for good or ill, the practical application of those concepts.

HELM (M) is aimed primarily at senior officers from the deck, engineering and electro-technical departments seeking management level certification. This course also provides invaluable training for other on-board disciplines like hotel services and shore-based staff.

It is a five-day multi-activity management level course in leadership and managerial skills that enable delegates to control the operation of the ship and care for person onboard.

HELM (O) provides junior officers with the necessary level of human element competence for maintaining a safe navigational or engineering watch.

This course is a three-day multi-activity Operational Level introducing leadership and managerial skills that enable delegates to apply non-technical skills onboard.

Both courses meet the requirements by the UK Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) syllabus and are accredited by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), the UK Flag State Authority.

WrightWay will be conducting a series of open courses, accessible to self sponsored delegates or to companies which only require a few places.

Transas.

Supapo advanced the good news that PLSE “will launch steering simulator for ratings” specifically designed for ratings only. Transas offers extended terms of payment, payable even up to 36 months and exhibits the equipment at PLSE’s showroom at 8F of Dohle Haus.

Complimenting professional approach, there is the Transas Simulation User Conference 2016 (SimUC 2016), on the theme ‘Simulation and Training Without Boundaries’, in summery Singapore on January 27 to 29, 2016.

The theme embraces the most up-to-date subjects, mostly required by International Conventions coming into force, like: • • •

• • • • •

e-Navigation and cloud simulation; Human element, leadership & management (HELM) training; STCW requirements for engineer training, onboard simulation solutions, R&D applications of the simulators; Innovative HW approach; Naval simulation and training, automated assessment advances; ECDIS and navigational skills training, Cargo handling training; Offshore and DP simulation; Polar code introduction and many more.

Clearly, PLSE’s optimism is solidlybased given the great demand for the trainings from the shipping industry itself and the coming into force of International Conventions requiring new and upgraded competencies.

And PLSE has all the cards stocked for success with WrightWay as course experts and Transas as provider of cutting-edge simulation and allied equipment.

Top-grade Transas equipment at PLSE Showroom.

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Embark on a lifelong career.

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

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

www.vcrew.com/phl

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

Performance assured

Cover Story

ELBURG GEARS FOR STCW 2010 Manning OSM - ALL ABOUT PEOPLE

Legislation SEAFARER PROTECTION ACT

Feature

8 24 28 34

TOP 10 ON OUR TENTH

Training MARITIME IN THE HIGHLANDS

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Content

ABOUT THE COVER Layout: Jhon Henson Ong

At the risk of being killjoys of holiday merriments, we highlight the importance of being compliant on mandatories of international Conventions coming into force. A

model is Elburg’s proactive policy of preparing well for STCW 2010 demands for new competencies led by its Managing Director, Capt.

Nicolo Terrei.

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Editorial Consultant

Lyn Bacani

Creative Director

B. Cortes Lagac

Content Critique

Commo. Dante Jimenez

Eva Tan

Jhon Henson Ong

Legal Counsel

Atty. Manuel Obedoza, Jr.

News and Feature Writers Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors

Ms. Merle San Pedro Atty. Cristina Beltran

RAdm. Adonis Donato Capt. Rodolfo Aspillaga

International Contributors

F R Chowdhury

Account Executive Karen Mainar

Mark Millar

Circulation Assistant Joana Marie Tud

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

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

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Publisher’s Note

SO MANY TO DO M0RE The proposed regional processing center will speedup processing of seamen’s books and certifications, and cheaper for Cebuano seafarers and others in the region. It will also decongest workload at the MARINA main office.

Amidst challenges up front, we still see the horizon yonder as optimistic for the shipping industry. After all, the world cannot do without the merchant mariners; and internally for the practitioners, there are so many priorities overarching worries nor fears: STCW 2010 Manila Amendment coming into force first day of 2017, the competitions and opportunities of the Asean Integration, K to 12 Philippine educational reforms and allied concerns.

On top, the country is facing a presidential election that may usher in new policies or other priorities. Congress itself may take a different phase, just as maritime concerns are just now beginning to gestate with the lawmakers. Hopefully, voters may discern promises from intent, grandstanding from capabilities.

The maritime sector needs to be vigilant, proactive and critical on performances of executive and legislative officials. Indeed, we are happy on the serious formation of four PartyList groups as the incumbent ANGKLA and experienced AMOR with two new aspirants, UFS and MARINO. There are also encouraging tracts of cooperation. Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III allowed MARINA to house a regional processing center on 2,000 sqm parcel owned by the province.

ANGKLA Cong. Jesulito Manalo noticed the signing last December 17 of the Contract of Usufruct between Cebu and MARINA on the project of decentralization. On top of bridging the negotiations and identifying the site, Manalo also secured money for the proposed center on funds allocated to the Dept. of Public Works and Highways (instead of just waiting for DoTC, the mother department of MARINA).

We also note the sizzle in MARINA’s servicing seafarers needs: improvements on its main building at Port Area-Manila to be followed by new buildings in two more regions.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama reflects local government endorsement, “Manning has always been a part of it... (with) our department of manpower development and placement…bringing them to be enlightened, sustained and maintained.”

The private sector is doing its share. Aside from branching out of Manila to the urban centers and cities of the country, there are entrepreneurs forking out major investments.

Former PPA GM Alfonso Cusi, initiated the purchase of M/V Starlite Pioneer, the first brand-new roll on, roll-off vessel, state-of-the-art built in Japan. Four more newbuildings are ordered and scheduled for delivery in 2016, thereabout.

There is also CNergy Center, an eight-hectare PhP200-million initial development near Tagaytay City to host maritime seminars, trainings and allied functions. The venture is funded from about 100 seafarers. Most maritime facility investment are on coastal areas. This enterprise is bold and unique: situated on the highlands of Silang, Cavite, allowing mountain resort amenities and primal essence of nature.

Senate President Franklin Drilon is categorical: “(W)e should help the shipping industry and provide with a more efficient transport facilities between our islands…If we grant incentives to other industries there is no reason why we should not support our shipping industry.”

Sen. Bam Aquino, Chairman ng Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce, and

Entrepreneurship, echoes, “We want to see some level of modernity since after all everybody recognizes (shipping) is a vital part of our logistics… So we’re quite supportive. ” In the Lower House, Cong. Sarmiento, Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, declares “(B)y way of political will, by imposing a regulation converting from single to double hull, I don’t see any reason why we could not adopt or impose a policy in modernizing…”

Where before maritime is mere appendage to concerns, maritime interest is now being studied, considered and prioritized. The President himself issued defining executive orders: a day in June dedicated to the seafarers and the organizing steps for a Single Maritime Authority, triggering turf wars among government functionaries.

Sen. Bongbong Marcos says of Pinoy seamen: “You represent the Philippines when you are on boarding ships… (T)he Filipino is well trained, the Filipino understands the systems, the Filipino will become an important part of any crew.”

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. declares, “Congress has committed the approval of laws that would ensure continued compliance with international standards and enhancement of training programs of seafarers.”

And more, the PMMA alumni has adopted Sen. Cayetano, Sen. Angara has batted for the Magna Carta, Sen. Legarda has a soft heart for seafarers. But we have more things to do and undo, both domestic and international, both policy and implementation.

We must have closure on the European safety audit (by EMSA), we must categorize for good the categories on maritime schools by CHEd and MARINA, work overtime to be compliant on new competencies required by international Conventions coming into force, critique courses and training offered by private educators (and businessmen), and so forth.

So many more. To preserve and enrich our claim as Manning Capital of the World. And level up from fourth globally in shipbuilding, establish preeminence as officers on board.

To maximize ripple effects of a vibrant maritime industry, to sail the blue waters not just for a living but for national pride.

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cover story

8TH CREW CONFERENCE

ELBURG GEARS FOR STCW 2010 Capt. Terrei perking up crew and cadets

Are We Ready?

A question, a challenge to the crew but the essential point of the 8th Crew Conference of Elburg Shipmanagement Phils Inc., proactive on being compliant with the STCW 2010 Manila Amendment coming into force 1 January, 2017.

The career developing confab was held November 26 to 27 at the Blue Leaf Filipinas, Belle Avenue, Aseana City, Paranaque City.

Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. Managing Director, Captain Nicolo Terrei worries, “The situation is little bit complicated. The biggest concern is that we will be capable to certify all our seafarers in time because the final phase we will have on 31 December 2016.”

According to a Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) STCW advisory, November 15th is the deadline for the renewal of the Certificates (of Competencies, CoCs; of Proficiencies, CoPs and of Endorsements, CoEs), which are not yet aligned to STCW 2010 Manila amendments and valid only until December 31, 2016.

MARINA will issue CoCs, CoPs and CoEs valid for five years for seafarers who have undergone upgrading and Millar

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refresher courses under the STCW 2010 amendments.

During the conference, Director Terrei even gestured for a head count, asking how many hold CoCs valid after December 2016. Or how many are certified with the new CoC?

• •

• •

Goran Zivkovic, SeaQuest Shipmanagement Eduar Hibser, Goran Zivkovic and Philippie Lecloux, Seaquest Singapore Romina Perrone, KShips Massimo Comelato, Motia Compagnia Navigazione S.p.A. Roberto Spanu, Cassiopea Maritime Pietro Valle, Rimorchiatori Riuniti Vittorio Donzella, Laura Savina and Roberto Ladisi, Beach Cross Adhitya Hanafi, Cipra Wira Indonesia Michelle Spinelli, Gestioni Armatoriali Claudio Montagner, Synergas

Terrie notes up to mid this year, there are 42,000 officers to be certified. With such number, it is a huge challenge to rush and elbow to secure a new certification.

• • •

But he reassures, “It is our aim now to try to work also with the people onboard and try to plan with the owners, not to try to get other people in the market.”

•

Teamwork.

•

More than 20 shipowners/representatives of various nationalities attended and first met with their respective crews.

Concern on crew.

Among them are: • • • •

Ivo Guidi, Sabrina Gerbi and Valentina D’urso, Esa Group S.R.L. Roberto Nulli Gabbiani and Graziano Padroni, PB Tankers SpA Leo Petersen, Maritime Performances BV Serena Scordamaglia and Luca Apicella, Finbetta

•

Petersen, Crewing Manager of Maritime Performances declares, “for me the most interesting part is to meet our own seafarers because that is the connection and the relationship and its’ the team onboard that has to do the job. We’d like to have a good relationship with the team so its’ good to see them here.

We want to work on being the best … if you don’t have the team and the crew who are capable of doing what is required, then you are nowhere.”

Zivkovic, Managing Director of SeaQuest Shipmanagement, emphasizes, “Historical, we are connected to Filipinos. And we believe that from the existing market the Filipino seafarers are the best.”

But Zivkovic is uncertain on the following years, because there is shortage and “the market becomes more and more demanding” due to lower freights and disaster going on the shipping market.

And there are demands for higher quality, safety by authorities like IMO and the Flag States, requiring more and more, day by day.

Zivkovic says that if the triangle of stakeholders (client, manning agency and seafarers) interact well, operations could be the best. Performance will bring better results.

Workshops.

Around 200 crew actively participated in the workshops and exercises depending on their positions onboard which include • • • • • • • •

Maritime Resource Management Shipboard safety culture ECDIS Passage Planning Engine Preparation Vessel s mooring Loading a product carrier Simulator exercises

Upgrade.

Elburg Shipmanagement Phils., Inc. oriented the crew on Competency Management System (CMS) which its training center Italian Maritime Academy (IMA) shall apply in its assessment of competencies to all its seafarers from the management level, operational level, ratings and cadets.

Capt. Terrei explains from now on,

Comelato with Italian Charge D’ Affaires Schina

assessments will try to understand crew capability, competency and will address areas where one needs improvement.

Time with Italian Maritime Academy Phils. Inc. should be maximized for the right trainings; not just taken as a procedure in training for upgrading a license.

For one, simulator upgrades are done full compliant to the requirements of the STCW 2010 Manila Amendments.

Italian Maritime Academy Phils. Inc. awaits accreditation from MARINA, offering a safety net for the huge surge of trainees and refreshers who cannot be absorbed by accredited training centers already fully-loaded. While IMA is a name in in-house trainings, it is open to offer STCW 2010 courses as required.

The perks.

The current issue of certification is not just compliance to an International Convention but should develop careers fueled by validated competence and assessed performance. These carry prestige, higher income and better perks.

For one, being within the IBF Agreement is an example, also like Elburg with 99% of its managed ships under Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP).

But Dr. Conrado Oca, AMOSUP president, cautions, “In this new regime of the demanding EMSA requisites,

MLC 2006 implementation and STCW Manila Amendments compliance, such new and revised international standards have posed new challenges to the Philippines, being the leading laborsending country in the world.”

He also notes other labor-providing countries are now getting their acts together in order to have more of their trained seafarers man the global fleet.

Dr. Oca announced centrally agreed percentage wage increases for both officers and ratings under the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) agreement.

Synergy.

Majority of the vessels under Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. management are owned or managed by Italians and under Italian flags.

Mr. Fabio Schina, Charge D’ Affaires, a. i. Embassy of Italy in Manila, emphasizes the “tremendous jobs that Elburg has been producing in the past years and its excellent level that it has reached in providing its services to Italian companies, and to Filipinos.”

Mr. Schina underscored the importance of maritime sector for Italy which is a tradition and a vital global activity for Italy’s economic growth. Mr. Schina goes on to relate, “the success of this event speaks of the level of Filipino crews excellent capabilities.”

Mr. Ivo Guidi, Managing Director of Esa Group, is “confident (we) can cope with

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ELBURG GEARS FOR STCW 2010 Coffee moment with Shipowners during the conference break

what is required.”

He acknowledges “the partnership is fantastic” with the outstanding Captain Nicolo Terrei and Mrs. Procerfina Terrei, tracing they started with 10 vessels increasing to 67 ships these days; hiring about 800 now from master to deckboard.

Mr. Guidi notes being of Italian flag, the country’s cabotage law requires the hiring of Italians aboard. But in majority of its vessels, from chief engineers down, Filipinos are hired with some chemical tankers operating with an all-Filipino crew.

crew, the ship owners are prepared for to respond with equal commitment. They do not favor constant changes in crewing and would rather operate with the tested ones than experiment with new kids. For as long as the crew does the job as expected, Italian ship owners would return the competence and loyalty in similar gesture.

He also thinks Filipino seafarers “best added value is first one is loyalty to the company, second one is complying with the rules. Filipino in general you are very much willing to cope with the rules so if there are clear instructions, if there are clear direction of the company, you tend to follow this instruction in a proper and professional way much more than other nationals.”

Testimonial.

Mutual loyalty.

While Elburg Shipmanagement Phils.

Inc. was established in 2005, it has been a team-up of 15 years with the Terrei

Just as they demand loyalty from the

Captain Terrei and Mrs. Terrei handed over the certificates and token of appreciation to the crews who have served with distinction and pride.

Loyalty awards were presented to those who logged 5, 10 and 15 years with the company.

couple rooting from a previous company.

To solidify bonding with the crew, many of the ship owners stayed with the crew, holding rapport even with the direct families of their wards. Fun and goodwill were enjoyed in the light cocktails, later during the sumptuous dinner.

The night sparkled with live entertainment, spiced with thrills of the raffles and surprises of the give-aways and prizes.

Building well the Elburg Team of the future

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Training

Upgrade on IMA simulators.

Italian Maritime Academy Timely

OFFERS COMPETENCY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Maritime experts are almost unanimous the combined output of MARINA accredited training centers cannot accommodate the certification of merchant marine officers to the new requirements of STCW ’78, as amended.

Compliant by 31 December 2016, the absolute deadline since the STCW amendments of 2010 comes into force 1 January 2017.

Comes to the rescue, the Italian Maritime Academy Phils. Inc. (IMA) with its Competency Management System (CMS) for the full compliance to the STCW 2010 Manila Amendments.

Small wonder more than 20 IMA shipowners and representatives of Italian, Croatian and Dutch nationals attended client orientation at IMA office in Basement Philippine AXA Life Centre Condominium Corp. 1286 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue Corner Tindalo St., Makati City, last November 25, 2015.

IMA General Manager Captain Nicolo Terrei says, “This is a big step ahead concerning the management and the understanding of the competency audit… will assure clients that their crew are competent.”

CMS, IMA and RINA. Mr. Alessandro Mura, RINA training manager, expounds, “CMS…is a synergy between IMA and RINA, to provide a good service related to the improvement of competence of the seafarers plus a certification that is recognized worldwide, released by a classification society.

IMA upgraded its facilities with Transas latest versions of full mission bridge NTPRO 5000 version 5.35, ECDIS NAVI Sailor 4000 with Navi-Trainer

CMS is approved by RINA, an internationally-recognized classification society, whose seal could backstop questions by Port States on the certificates (of competence, CoC; of endorsement, CoE and of proficiency, CoP) carried by seamen.

The required refresher training course by Management Level Course (MLC) is one month, 70 days for new officers. As of April 2015, there are more than 42,000 officers to be certified. All projections point to the inability to beat the deadline with the limited number of accredited training centers and the time lock of only up 31 December 2016 for compliance.

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Transas Rep. Supapo with shipowners Petersen and Zivkovic inspecting facilities

Mr. Ivo Guidi, Esa Group Managing Director

“This I think is the new frontier... what the market requires” - Ivo Guidi

5000 and full mission engine room simulator TechSim 5000.

Through iCloud simulation, exercises are uploaded for access even if one is at home or onboard, enabling the run of the simulator as if in the actual classroom.

Added digital peripherals or apps (like smart phones, tablets, online simulator) can download stored data in the sphere, incorporated as e-learning management system.

The simulators are fully in lined with the STCW 2010, being the most realistic.

“STCW 2010 specifically talking about the assessment of the competency of the seafarers. With this, we will be capable to really assess the people,” claims Captain Nicolo Terrei.

Certified.

A highlight of the event is the award of RINA CMS certificate to PB Tankers, one of IMA clients.

Mr. Roberto Nulli Gabbiani, Head of

MSQ, says CMS is a systematic approach to understand each and every competency needed for each rank onboard and ashore. It specifically defines the level of competencies, it analyze the gaps and improve whatever is needed with dedicated training.

Captain Nicolo Terrei adds, “We need to plan very well… the disembarkation and to start to endorse the people while they are onboard…It’s very, very tight schedule (since it is only) within December we will advise all the owners with data of expiring certificates of their people...work out to be sure that we can be capable to certify them.”

Client positive.

Mr. Ivo Guidi, Managing Director of Esa Group S.R.L., believes, “This I think is the new frontier, its unavoidable point. I

think that if you don’t do that today, you are not in position to offer proper service to your client. Today this is what the market requires.

Of course, we are talking about the first market, then there are other field in which situation is different but this is something in which we are not interested for simple reason that on the first league place, first league of owners, in terms of safety, in terms of salary, in terms of trust, the same goes with the seafarers.

We don’t want to compete in other league, where might be good in terms of money for the company but not in terms of reputation for us.”

PB Tankers accept RINA CMS certification

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Manning

ELBURG UPGRADES IN CEBU Italian Ambassador Massimo Roscigno at Elburg-Cebu

New offices for Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. was inaugurated last October 15, 2015 at the trendy 16th Floor of Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop corner Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo, Cebu City.

This is a huge upgrade for Elburg occupying 718 sqm, from the cripped 120 sqm at the City Savings Financial Plaza building, Osmena Boulevard, at the Queen City of the South.

Leading the opening formalities are Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. Managing Director Captain Nicolo Terrei, Chairman of the Board, Mrs. Procerfina Terrei and President Atty.

Richard P. Palpal-Latoc.

Heading the honored guests are Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Mr. Massimo Roscigno, RINA General Manager for Training, Mr. Daniele Giorgi, AMOSUP Cebu Director, Mr. Teodosio Alcantara and Cebu Gems Innovation and Career Development Center President, Mr. Juan Antoine dela Torre.

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Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. staff and seafarers joined the launching, proudly with their own families. Majority of the crew and sponsored cadets of Elburg hail from the Visayas region. The firm now employs over 2,000 officers and ratings aboard some 200 European vessels.

Its main office is at the Phil-AXA Life Centre Condominium Corp. Corner 1286 Senator Gil Puyat Ave. Corner Tindalo St., Makati City.

Atty. Palpal-Latoc underscores, “As we open these companies here in Cebu, with the help of our foreign partners, and the support of the government, seafarers and our employees, we commit to provide superior and world-class service.

And it is our objective to provide more employment opportunities to Filipinos.”

Updates.

Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. provides seafarers, mostly Filipino officers and ratings, to about 180 types of vessels, liquid cargo, dry cargo, offshore and passenger ships.

As of October 2015, an average of 1,664 crew are onboard per month compared to 1,611 in 2014.

2015 marked the highest crew deployment at 79% total; higher than last year’s 67%.

Atty. Palpal-Latoc, delivered during the inauguration the policy statement and stirrings from the heart of Elburg Shipmanagement Phils., Inc., with shades for its sister companies, the Italian Maritime Academy, Augustea Ship Manning Philippines Inc. and Lady Aphrodite Spa Academy.

Atty. Palpal-Latoc explains why expand when the maritime industry experiencing economic troubles: “As long as there are waters on the oceans, maritime industry will stay.”

He says, “It may have its own downside in the industry, however, navigation and carriage of goods by sea will remain to be the most efficient and reliable means of transportation. More so that Filipino seafarers are recognized to be one of the best in the world.”

Elburg Shipmanagement Phils.

With world-class training and skills development from Italian Maritime Academy Phils. Inc, Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. and Augustea Ship Manning Philippines Inc., Filipino seafarers will be recognized as superior seafarers and will be continuously in demand.

Even the Lady Aphrodite Spa Academy, basically on beauty and wellness, opens opportunities for employment on cruise ships.

The noblesse.

He waxes emotional, “To us, the

challenge is from within. To dream bigger. To strive more. To perform better.”

Atty. Palpal-Latoc reveals, “We have been constantly upgrading our equipment to cope with the fast changing technology. We are continuously improving our human resources to provide excellent service to our partners.

And recently, this move to expand operations in the southern part of the Philippines.”

He continues, “We recognize that as long as we are prepared from within, whatever challenges the industry may present, we

can withstand and overcome them.”

Never lost in even with the vagaries of business, Atty. Palpal-Latoc stirs the heart in recognizing the hardwork and dedication of the Terrei family, Captain Nicolo and Mrs. Procerfina with the unqualified support of their children, Richelle, Grace, Viannese, Juliet and Antonio.

For all the jobs opened and benefits enjoyed, he also gives due credit to their Italian partners for keeping the faith and holding the trust on Elburg Shipmanagement Phils. Inc. team.

Capt Terrei tours the guests

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Feature

Metropolitan Cebu skyline

Hub of Domestic Shipping

CEBU CITY A MARITIME CENTER Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama readily confirms the continuing growth of the maritime industry in this Queen City of the South, as evidenced by the escalating number of current operators and new ventures into the sector.

“First and foremost we are a city, they put up their offices here. I even have seen new things now that you do not have to go to Manila, they’re putting some simulation equipment that will bring anyone who would want to be prepared in an examination anywhere.

And I’ve heard the examination is being decentralized likewise because City of Cebu, as far as ASEAN integration, is the most prepared,” claims Rama.

He appears to be impressed when he

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witnessed last October 3rd the grand launching of Cebu Reliable and Excellent Seafarers Training Center (CREST), highlighting full mission bridge simulators which cost millions of pesos.

In the said event, Maritime Industry Authority Regional Director Nanette Dinopol was prominent; so was ANGKLA Partylist Cong. Jesulito Manalo.

house a regional processing center on 2,000 sqm parcel owned by the province.

On this, Manalo noticed the signing last December 17th of the Contract of Usufruct between Cebu and MARINA on the project that decentralizes MARINA services to Central Visayas.

Coordination.

While bridging the negotiations and identifying the site, Manalo also secured money for the proposed center on funds allocated to the Department of Public Works and Highways (instead of just waiting for sharing from the Transport Department (DoTC), the mother department of MARINA).

At the provincial level, Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III allowed MARINA to

The proposed regional processing center will speed-up processing of seamen’s

Manalo was even quoted, “… at the last budget hearing, the MARINA budget is now from P800 million to P1.3 billion.”

Manalo, Dinopol and Rama at CREST inaugurals

books and certifications and cheaper for Cebuano seafarers and others in the region. It will also decongest workload at the MARINA main office.

Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), viz: •

Director Dinopol adds, “Our next steps would be the decentralization of certification functions, the devolution of assessment functions from theoretical examinations to practical assessment to the MARINA Regional Offices.”

Jobs.

•

Mayor Rama recalls of the city’s sponsorship of overseas job fairs way back in the 1990s.

“Manning has always been a part of it. And we have been too professional already in reaching out with the collaboration with POEA, DOLE, … with our department of manpower development and placement so reaching out to them has long been done, bringing them to be enlightened, sustained and maintained,” explains Rama.

While more applications are still being processed, records as of August 31, 2015 show these manning agencies already operate in Cebu, accredited by the

•

•

Aminta Crew Management, Anscor Swire Ship Management, Asiana Ship Management, BSM Crew Service Centre Phils., Cebu AceMaritime International, CF Sharp Crew Management, Crew Asia, CrewCare, Crossworld Marine Services; Dalisay Shipping, Elburg Shipmanagement Phils., Epsilon Maritime Services, Eurasian Maritime, Foscon Shipmanagement, Global Gateway Crewing Services, Island Overseas Transport, Jebsen Maritime, KGJS Fleet Management Manila; Leonis Navigation, MaerskFilipinas Crewing, Magsaysay Maritime, Marlow Navigation Phils., MMSPhil Maritime Services, Orophil Shipping International, OSM Maritime Services, Pacific Ocean Manning, Phil. Transmarine Carriers, Rielt Maritime;

Phils., Wallem Maritime Services, and Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Manning.

Conference.

Rama is happy Cebu was chosen venue of the Norway Maritime Conference, also as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Norwegian Training Center-Manila (NTCM).

Since high-profile stakeholders will be in attendance, Mayor Rama encourages direct coordination by event organizers with his Office for safety and security protocols.

The actual conference site will be on an island adjacent to Cebu City. But organizers, participants and delegates will necessarily spend more time in Cebu City being highly urbanized, a prime attraction on tourism and culture; in fact, the oldest city in the archipelago.

The Norway Maritime Conference is booked January 27 to 29, 2016, at the exclusive Shangrila, a resort hotel on Mactan island, Lapulapu City.

Southfield Agencies, Spliethoff Group Manila, TSM Shipping

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Assessment

CEO Paraoan

For Professional Growth

IMPACTS, AT YOUR SERVICE Now in the neighborhood, powered by proactive, innovative experts.

five other incorporators are batchmates at UC.

That’s IMPACTS, the Integrated Maritime Practical Assessment Center and Technical Solutions. Or call it Integrated Maritime (IM) offering three major services, viz:

Dela Cerna and Paraoan are speakers at Kongsberg conference in Singapore on practical assessment on simulators.

• • •

Assessment In-house or specialized training Maritime book publishing

IMPACTS is unlike the usual business venture. It has professional vision, the owners honed and outstanding in maritime fields. Two are known as Power Users of Kongsberg, being Kongsberg’s certified official programmers in the Visayas and Mindanao (to install Kongsberg simulators and train/familiarize the instructors).

In an interview before the formal launch in October, Paraoan says merchant mariners from the Visayas and Mindanao are disadvantaged on having to go to Imperial Manila for assessment. Let alone the major expense, they have to leave again from their families and time spent eating on their short vacation.

IMPACTS instructors can go toe-to-toe with what Manila may offer. They have blue waters sailing years, experience with shipping companies, academic preparations on Project Alpha (a fouryear recruitment program of UC) now named Norwegian Shipowners Association cadetship program.

In Cebu, Chief Engineer Ephrem dela Cerna, Jr., 33, is one of only two certified in engine. He worked with the Hoegh Fleet, research and development manager for NewSim before his tenure as CEO of IMPACTS.

In ways more than one, they have imbibed the Norwegian professional discipline topped by Kongsberg and DNV classification.

Capt. George Neil Paraoan, 34, had a stint in PTC and NewSim, now COO of IM.

IMPACTS is located at Qimonda IT Center, fast becoming a maritime hub with review and training centers, crew and manning companies holding offices there, including the MARINA regional office.

Both are Cebuanos, first batch of Project Alpha of the University of Cebu. The

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Maritime hub.

From Cebu going south, Iloilo and Negros provinces are easily reachable by land; in fact, the whole Panay Island.

Eastern Visayas is a few hours by fast watercraft or roro by public and private vehicles. Cebu also absorbs demands from Mindanao like the Surigaos and the Zamboangas.

For now, IMPACTS services officers but is preparing for assessment of ratings.

Prepared and Equipped.

Paraoan predicts regionalization just have to happen with Cebu as one-stop processing of seafarer documents.

IMPACTS is well-prepared and so much ahead with deck and engine simulators, now housed in 200 sqm plus another 100 sqm for rating assessment.

It has the most simulators in the Visayas and Mindanao region; 10 bridges and 10 engines, DNV ISO certified. The cost is nothing to sneeze at, PhP12-million on the software alone.

Small wonder it is a whiz on services offered, like: •

Conducts examinations and assessment for seafarers using appropriate simulators, laboratory equipment and relevant instruments;

•

Provides services for competency management, for hiring, retention,

“We are even planning virtual reality next year.”

- COO Dela Cerna COO Dela Cerna

and promotion, among others; consultation/ development of maritime training programs; and •

Focus on research and development for maritime accident investigation and publish maritime books, manuals and reference materials, including Kongsberg books.

For the Near Future.

Engr. Dela Cerna states, “We are even planning virtual reality next year.”

Indeed, this is “Star Wars technology” in that IMPACTS will produce a simulation product aptly named virtual walk.

Before one actually boards a ship, one would have a feeling of having boarded one with the use of merging gaming.

It is a big project, the first ever three monitor screen and 3D animated engine room. They are visionaries and would exploit technology to the hilt to serve better their clientele.

The Launch.

After the thanksgiving to mentors, Paraoan recalls “It was not so long ago when our journey begun. We entered and qualified on the Project Alpha scholarship program with nothing more than a dream.

On our orientation day we were briefed that 10 to 15 years from now Project Alpha will be part of redefining the maritime industry as top ship officers, maritime stakeholders and executives.

These words were embedded in us and we have believed since Day One.” On April 13, 2014, Project Alpha conveyed the biggest mission of their lives: Integrated Maritime (IMPACTS).

Together they stood, armed with knowledge, specific skills and values to bring the vision closer to reality. Years nurtured by Project Alpha, the Heavenly Father, family, mentors and colleagues, the ultimate goal is to shepherd Integrated Maritime.

At that launch, CEO Dela Cerna opened his heart: “Thank you to our mentors for kindling our spirits, for molding us to who we are today to show the maritime world what we can do for the betterment of the industry.”

2F Qimonda IT Center, Don Sergio Osmena North Reclamation Area, Cebu City Phone: +63 32 410 6628, Email: info@impacts.ph Website: http://www.impacts.ph

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Feature

MOLDING OF A MARINER

“Anyone with the burning desire, and determination, can be a success.”

What others could, I can!

The cry seems mapasigarbohon (boastful) to a generally modest Cebuano culture. Yet, taken on a right dosage, it could be an effective antidote to weak self-esteem.

This is well-demonstrated by the story of a struggling cadet and a veteran captain; one with the potential, the other grizzled with experience. The young seeks a dream, the elder has travelled the path.

The internal struggle, actually, is the common run of Filipino merchant mariners: a large majority study for a maritime degree but barely 10% opt to take deck or engine command positions.

A weird situation given the world’s great impression of Filipino seafarers and the global shortage for officers underscored by the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) and validated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) of the United Nations.

This situation is what makes a classic example of Alwin Talisic, an ordinary kid raised in Barangay Apas, near a regional military camp in Cebu City. His parents are of modest means. Fact is, becoming a merchant mariner is already a huge dream for the family.

Alwin took a degree in 2005 in Information Technology (IT) from the University of San Jose-Recoletos; then in 2009, a BS Maritime Transportation from the University of Cebu.

These were followed by a one year cadetship at Trans-Asia Shipping; a year as 2nd Officer in B&E Shipping. The team-up with Cebu Gems Innovation

started when he took therein the OIC/ Navigational review for nine months.

Not surprisingly, Alwin passed the test as expected of reviewers from Cebu Gems.

It is a namesake of a Cebuano basketball team that dribbled to fame. While the athletes did not sustain the fame, Cebu Gems Innovation continues to excel and grow better.

It is fondly called Pambansang Review Center ng mga Marino. Not an empty claim given its credentials: Hall of Famer Review Center of the Year 2011-2014; • Best Maritime Review Center, Business Achievement and Recognition Awards, 2011-2015; • Most Trusted Name, Consumers Choice Category Awards, 20102015; • Most Trusted Review Center, Global Management Excellence Award, 2011-2015

•

Alwin’s was not solo sailing but shipside is a Master, Capt. Juan Antoine Dela Torre. True, the captain preaches spiritual acceptance with the quote, “Thy Will Be Done.” But at the same time, he drills into Alwin that if others can make it, Alwin can make it, and better!

For the second time, Alwin requested to be an Alternate, even accepted being a 3rd Mate reliever. On Dela Torre’s urgings and motivation, Alwin transferred to a 2nd Mate posting. Then taking two months of study and drilled with confidence, Alwin passed the Chief Mate examinations.

A more permanent job opportunity (3rd Mate/2nd Mate) came over; and the Captain challenged the young Mariner not to show his face if he fails. Whether Alwin was uncomfortable, the protégée took the challenge on the motivation of the captain.

Capt. Dela Torre shares that when in doubt, call the Master and his own experience on board. Alwin served as Chief Mate for a year at Keywest Shipping but refused to take the government test on the alibi that he is applying for abroad, anyway.

Truth is, he was fearful of failing.

But Capt. Dela Torre would not give up, pushing and priming Alwin to face the odds, to take the exams. When Alwin gathered enough courage and followed, he was successful in the licensure exams --- making it as Master Mariner, in just three years.

Indeed, it is not an earthshaking story.

What makes Alwin’s voyage special is the underlying lesson: anyone with the burning desire, and determination, can be a success.

But he is also fortunate he partnered with proven experts as those with Cebu Gems.

He was not considered just another client nor a mere reviewer. But the teaching faculty shared with the concern and dedication of a Captain Juan Antoine Dela Torre.

Many more shall pass the portals of Cebu Gems Innovation. Expectedly, the legend shall continue just as the boy Alwin is now Capt. Alwin Macalalag Talisic, Master Mariner!

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Training

CELEBRATING 25TH ANNIVERSARY

NTC-M SURGES FORWARD

by Ligaya Caban

Managing Director Erlend Grimstad.

Largest and most modern, fully integrated simulator center, the first one in the Philippines. And the most modern and largest in the whole of Asia --that’s the initial fare in the incumbency of Erlend Grimstad, new Managing Director of the Norwegian Training Center-Manila (NTC-M).

Roughly valued $4-million, the state-ofthe-art 30 simulators of various range and models, shall all be fully operational

by April, 2016, in a 1800 sqm facility as one of two training campuses of the Center. The earlier one is at the NTC-M building, NMYC/TESDA complex in Taguig City, Metro Manila.

NTC-M was established by the Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA) and operated in February, 1990;

by May, made part of the Norwegian Maritime Foundation of the Philippines (NMFPI). With 25,000 Filipino seafarers working on Norwegian-owned or controlled ships, NSA initiated a safety and quality program to restore the quality and reputation of Norwegian shipping, in general.

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Cadetship.

It funds a Cadetship Program, about 200 scholars a year but has a record batch of 400 in 2014. NTC-M will decrease intake due to the impact of the government’s K12 educational reforms.

Yet, it continues with four institutions hosting its scholars: Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, DMMA College of Southern Philippines and University of Cebu - Lapu Lapu and Mandaue campuses.

The NSA Cadetship is the most outstanding and promising program of the Association of Shipowners’ Training and Education Project (ASOTEP). It aims to develop young and competent Filipino seafarers through scholarship grants and best maritime education award to qualified applicants.

Milestones.

NTC-M celebrates its Silver Anniversary with glitters at the posh Shangrila Mactan Resort in Lapulapu City, Cebu, on January 27 to 29, with welcome

cocktails Wednesday, a day before.

Leading the panel of speakers is lawyer Erlend Grimstad, experienced in serving both the Norwegian government and business.

He has been the Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy as well as the Ministry of Agriculture.

Prior, he was a financial advisor in the Norwegian Parliament.

He served as Executive VP in one of the largest privately held group in Norway – the Umoe-group, in turn holding a significant part of Knutsen OAS Shipping. He has been Managing Partner in corporate finance firm ProCorp.

Mr. Grimstad has been Board Chairman in Schat Harding, Vice Chairman of the Bergen Group, board member at Unitor and Vice Chair of the corporate assembly in Statoil, all with significant maritime exposure.

He has lived in Manila from 2008-2011 when he was CEO of Intex Resources, a listed company in the Philippine stock exchange.

AT 18TH LLOYD’S LIST ASIA

Classification

CLASSNK WINS INNOVATION AWARD In Singapore, ClassNK picked up the Innovation Award for its 3D modeling software ClassNKPEERLESS at the recent 18th Lloyd’s List Asia Awards held at the Lion City.

ClassNK-PEERLESS has been used for retrofits on 27 vessels, saving roughly 8,000 manhours and thousands of dollars in labor cost.

The awards recognize Asian maritime industry’s successes, setting a benchmark for excellence while rewarding breakthrough ideas and concepts.

The Innovation Award is given to a project or technology which has demonstrated potential to move shipping forward.

Another technology leap for shipping is seen by ClassNK in the launch of High Voltage Training Breaker by Transas, its business partner. This also answers recent requirement of the STCW Convention.

ClassNK-PEERLESS is the comprehensive and powerful design tool for 3D modeling. It was developed using outcomes from R&D projects with the University of Tokyo, NYK Line, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, “K” Line, Sasebo Heavy Industries, Sanwa Dock, MTI, S.E.A Systems, Armonicos, and ClassNK Consulting Service.

Transas launch.

High voltage (HV) is the most demanded training for engineers.

But training institutions has not clear objectives on training equipment (i.e., simulator) and course framework. Now, both are addressed efficiently with Transas training equipment and course approval by ClassNK. STCW requires training has to be conducted using real equipment.

In partnership with the power technology specialist ABB, Transas has developed a real hardware HV generator breaker cabinet compatible with the Transas ERS 5000 TechSim simulators with high and medium voltage systems.

The first Transas High Voltage Training Breaker has been installed at the Center for Marine Engineer Officers and Chief Engineers in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The full mission simulator for steam plants with HV equipment was developed in full compliance with the latest STCW requirements and allows for advanced training and certification.

This was presented at the 12th International Conference on Engine Room Simulators (ICERS12) in Istanbul on November 19-21.

PEERLESS provides a solution to the ballast water management (BWM) system retrofit bottleneck following the anticipated entry into force of the BWM Convention. It was necessary before to enter the engine room and manually measure every structure.

ClassNK-PEERLESS eliminates that direct contact by using highprecision 3D laser scanners.

Since launch in 2014, MARINO WORLD

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Manning

25th Anniversary Commitment

OSM - ALL ABOUT PEOPLE Unveiling Foundation with Mrs. Donato, OSM Group Chair Larsen

As early as last January 21st, OSM-Manila had prepared for its 25th Anniversary, breaking initial details at the Seamen’s Lounge of the OSM building. Opening with a Holy Mass, the launch was clearly a reach-out to its people. An audio-visual video downloaded the corporate roots, the expectations --- the challenges and struggles, the growth and the global presence.

For these days, and far beyond.

The build-up for the Silver Anniversary was not just a gesture but of serious intent.

For it was followed last May 22nd with defining corporate announcements. At the OSM building in Ermita, the staff and crew received the news first-hand: the change-over of the presidency of OSM Maritime Services (its mother and manning company in Manila) from its longtime President Admiral Adonis Donato to Ms. Mailyn Borillo, the incumbent Managing Director of OSM ROHQ. While in the past, the regional office, OSM ROHQ, has been headed by expats, it was finally handed over to Filipino hands in the person of Ms. Mailyn, former president of TORM Philippines. Thus, the whole OSM Philippine offices are now under Filipino leadership with Ms. Mailyn as President and Admiral Donato as chairman of the company.

In the same May affair, the launching of the OSM-Adonis Donato Foundation was

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formalized to bring to higher level the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) and charitable activities.

part of the corporate structure, appointed as the President and GM of OSM Philippine crewing company.

A tandem of trust: corporate leadership in Filipino, a charitable foundation for the Filipino crew and wards. These are not just words but fleshes out OSM’s mantra: all about people.

As he recalls with nostalgia, “(By the grace of God, and through sheer dedication to customers’ requirements, high professionalism and excellent service of its seafarers and shore staff, and the brilliant and innovate foresight of its top management, OSM has grown into a significantly successful and respectable independent global offshore and ship management company.”

The company.

It was established in Arendal, Norway, in 1989 by Mr. Bjorn Tore Larsen with four associates. A year later, it ventured in the Philippines in crew management having noticed the growing reputation of Filipino seafarers in international shipping.

With Filipino partners, the local OSM was established, crewing operations began on January 21, 1991 with an all-Filipino crew and officers. This first batch was personally escorted to Japan by Mr. Larsen, himself. Thus, this maiden voyage and date marked a historic episode and adopted as the founding anniversary of OSM Philippines.

Rear Admiral Adonis Donato joined in 1992 as one of first ship masters on board a bulk carrier for about two years. Then in early 1994, he assisted, as manager, Mr. Larsen in putting up its first crew development and welfare department from Arendal, Norway, the head office.

In the later part of 1994, Donato became

The network and CSR. With the main command post in Norway, OSM has now 24 offices worldwide with about 500 offshore and conventional vessels. It deploys about 10,000 seafarers of various nationalities, about 70% of whom are Filipinos.

But Donato clarifies, “…it is not about how many vessels we man… but what really matters most to us, is our people, which we regard as our most important asset. People who are competent, reliable, and who share the core values of the company which are - being responsible, friendly, team builders and always on.”

OSM extends its CSR programs beyond its own seafarers and their families and towards the less fortunate, like: •

Spirited projects as the OSM Learning Center in Makiling, Los

Baños, Laguna, for pre-school children ages 3 to 6 years old; scholarship for elementary school children from 1st grade to grade 7; •

During natural calamities like floods and typhoons, OSM sends relief and rehabilitation assistance. The latest was on super typhoon Yolanda which caused much death and destruction.

Aside from immediate financial relief assistance, OSM partnered with its customer/shipowner to renovate damaged school houses in Tacloban, Leyte.

To consolidate and arch to a higher level of welfare and social action projects, OSM has established the OSM- Adonis Donato Foundation. It is now formally committed to assist the poor and the disadvantaged.

The foundation is timed as a highlight of the Silver Anniversary given OSM’s heart for the people.

The role leaders.

Ms. Cheri Marie Donato-Villasin is now Vice Chairman, OSM Maritime Services and President of OSM-Adonis Donato Foundation.

“For more than two decades…OSM has taken a quantum leap in its service to its people and further escalating it to include the community. A noble feat standing by its vision of it’s all about people!”

Pres. Borillo with OSM officers

The daughter heads the OSM-Adonis Donato Foundation which envisions to inspire hearts, awaken minds and empower lives of OSM seafarers’ families and the community. Its programs are anchored on three pillars: Family welfare, Education and scholarship, Disaster response and rehabilitation OSM’s Family Welfare Program (FWP) promotes the well-being and the development of the family through various activities that zero in on health, finance, ethical values and social responsiveness.

The Foundation aspires to institutionalize the FWP, while constantly improving the structure and framework.

OSM has a very active Family Club, with ten chapters nationwide. Arguably, the goodwill and coordination within the OSM family accelerate and extend to outside communities with the support of the Foundation.

Mr. Bjorn Tore Larsen, OSM Group founder and chairman, says Donato is the face of OSM since “Don has a big heart, not only a big heart but also an integrity…

There is a very good reason for us to name the foundation OSM-Adonis Donato… for Don has also been a great adviser .”

Larsen even waxes sentimental in that Norway has a King and monarchy still reigns. And that we can compare the chairman position and the president position as that of the king and a prime minister, respectively.

The king is the symbol and the face of the country while the prime minister is the head of the government and runs the operations of the executive department.

With such reality, they shall meet

whatever challenges lurk ahead in the board and in the blue waters.

Ms. Mailyn Borillo, President of OSM Maritime Services and Managing Director of OSM ROHQ, also headed Global Purchasing Team and the Global Marine HR Team with teams in India and Denmark. She rose from the ranks as top gun for Maersk Filipinas Crewing where she was annealed on shipping operations, finance and crewing in the Philippines (and Denmark, too).

During the changeover ceremonies, Ms. Borillo acknowledged OSM Maritime Crewing Services staff who have been with the company for a decade. She calls them all up front and with gritty sincerity declares, “Now with this people, with these leaders in OSM Philippines, I hereby accept the Presidency.”

The newly-minted president, with candor and empathy, actually pronounces policy, viz: “I am your leader, and as well as your colleague. The path going to our ambitious goal would not be easy. But I am very confident that OSM team has what it takes to accomplish this goal. And I hope I could inspire everyone in the whole OSM Philippines team to shatter boundaries and defy expectations.

Personally, it’s my moral obligation and responsibility to protect and be the best leader I can be to this company which provides a good and dignified place to work – 300+ employees and more than 4,000 Filipino seafarers that provides decent living for thousands of Filipino families. As what OSM is – it’s all about people!”

Chairman Adonis Donato

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TRAINING

WSP MARITIME TRAINING CENTER

IN FULL MISSION FOR ALL

Western Shipping Managing Director Belal Ahmed.

Western Shipping Pte Ltd., is opening its in-house training facilities, the WSP Maritime Training Center, Inc. (WSPMTC), to all seafarers, an even chance for Filipino mariners to be compliant with STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. This includes the use of very expensive Full Mission Liquid Cargo Simulator, assures Capt. Belal Ahmed.

The Singapore-based maritime executive is managing director of Western Shipping Pte Ltd (WSP), an ownermanagement tanker firm providing marine transportation for chemical and petroleum products for the global energy market. Capt Belal is also Vice Chairman of International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC), a 50-year old organization for industrial relations operating from offices in London and Manila representing over 200 shipping companies worldwide.

Investment.

The WSP Maritime Training Center Inc., was established in 2011 and opened to the public by 2012 on accreditation from then Maritime Training Center (MTC), and now from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

That is why the investment; WSPMTC is one of the few training centers in Manila that have the three (3) Full Mission Simulators, the latest version that is

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available today: •

Transas Full Mission Engine Room Simulator (FMERS)

•

Transas Full Mission Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator (FMLCHS) which is integrated with the Full Mission Engine Room Simulator (FMERS)

•

Transas NTPro 5000 Full Mission Bridge Simulator (FMBS) which is integrated with its Full Mission Engine Room Simulator, one of the first in the Philippines.

The above Full Mission Simulators costs about US$1.8-million dollars. Having in 2015, three (3) of these simulators is a milestone for the firm. Not only they are also expensive to install, these must be complimented by high quality instructors.

Filipinos should work on technologically advanced ships, cheaper crew for lesser ships may be sourced from Vietnam or Indonesia. Relatively, Filipino seafarers are not expensive for ships that demand very high quality officers and ratings.

Under STCW 2010 Amendment, it is mandatory for engineers to have engine room simulator (ERS) training. The need for new ERS is huge; for the chief, second, third, fourth, junior engineers --everybody must have simulator training in the engine room.

Capt. Ahmed underscores, “As an IMEC member, we also get support from IMEC… Basically the training center is not only for our officers, for our ratings.

It is for all Filipino seafarers because that is how not only in my mind but also in the mind of IMEC.” He confesses maintenance is quite expensive and to sustain, the industry must know and use these to run continuously every week, every month.

He hopes in five years a few thousand have trained as LNG LPG and tanker officers.

The philosophy is to actually offer and use these Simulators, not just as a commercially run, nor profits on investment. More importantly, WSP wishes to see our seafarers increase knowledge and professionalism as the firm contributes to the Philippine maritime industry.

WSP is not a huge company but working with IMEC and with passion, it can help beyond just financials but the industry as a whole.

Great prospect.

The demand is really high due to clean energy, a lot of gas being discovered.

These need to be shipped and the Philippines is one of the few countries where owners like to see Filipino officers trained for LPG and LNG ships.

Currently, most officers come from Ukraine, Russia and India. Yet, Filipinos are best in tankers and should also be on LPG and LNG. Many LNG officers are required and are highly paid. Bulk carrier masters get US$9,000, those on tankers US$12,000 to US$13,000 per month. Masters in LNG take US$20,000 which one can aspire for with training, even starting at junior level. LPG salary is very high but LNGs are even higher, a spread of about 30% more.

Full mission simulator

There will be more specialized vessels and wages should go up. This may be a concern but the standard of living has gone up and critical jobs cannot be done by cheaper seafarers.

carriers, product tankers, LPG carriers owned by the same group of companies.

Relationship is closer because owners do not sell their ships but run them for long terms.

Prepared.

Newbuildings are expected in 2016 to include LPG and some product tankers.

While bulk carrier market is bad today, there is no telling their owners might buy given their tract record of buying when the market is down.

The old school says one learn when onboard. But there is an industry shift, with IMO itself declaring officers should use technology to learn from simulation facilities. Senior mariners may disagreed claiming a 3 to 5 –day course is easily forgotten. But WSP as a safety net, even encourages trainees to use the facilities any day and for free.

Courses.

WSPMTC offers MARINA accredited courses:

Western Shipping Southeast Asia is manned 85% by Filipinos, with very few from Europe. This fact is a solid indication Filipinos will be prominent in the shipping industry in decades to come.

•

The total fleet is 24, a mix of bulk

•

• •

Ship Simulator and Bridge Teamwork (SSBT) Consolidated MARPOL 73/78 IMO Model Course 3.19 Ship Security Officer 2012 (SSO 2012) IMO Model Course 3.26/3.27 Security Training for Seafarers

• •

•

• • • •

The In-house training courses include: • • • • • • • •

• WSP Maritime Training Center 1710 Prestige Tower, F. Ortigas Jr. Ave., Ortigas Ctr, Pasig (+632) 6553016 / (+632) 6559641 Mon to Sat: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm info@wsptraining.com; www.wspmtc.com FB: WSP Maritime Training Center, Inc.

with Designated Security Duties and Security Awareness Training (SDSDSAT) IMO Model Course 1.14 Medical First Aid (MEFA) IMO Model Course 1.27 ECDIS 2012 (utilizing Transas Simulators, NTPro 5000/NAVISAILOR 4000) IMO Model Course 1.07 RNRPA (utilizing Transas Simulators, NTPro 5000/Navisailor 4000) WSPMTC also offers ECDIS Specific Courses: Transas ECDIS SAM ECDIS JRC ECDIS

• • •

MRM ISM Steering Course with the use of Simulators PADAMS with HIV SATPRO/Injury Prevention HAZMAT/Dangerous, Hazardous and Harmful Cargoes Collision Avoidance Voyage Planning with Chart Correction and Publication Correction Risk Assessment and Management with Incident Investigation Automatic Identification System Oiler Record Book Familiarization and Training Vetting Inspection – for officers and ratings

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Legislation Legislation

Seafarer Protection Act

ESCROW OF AWARD NEXT? Senator Angara

Last November 26th, President Benigno Aquino signed into law as Republic Act 10706 the bills proposing to protect seafarers against ambulance chasing and imposition of excessive fees. It is now known as the Seafarers Protection Act, imposing sanctions and penalties on violations.

The measure has spawned controversies and even became a focal point of two major maritime conferences this year, viz: •

•

At the 2015 Philippine Manning Convention (Philmancon), held November 10-11 at the Manila Hotel attended by about 500 mostly top executives of manning agencies; At the CrewConnect Global, held November 12-13 at Hotel Sofitel, Pasay City, with mostly shipowners and representatives. (This is formerly the Asia Pacific Manning and Training Conference, the prestigious getting-together of world maritime professionals.)

Where tempest brews.

On RA 10706 declaration of policy in Section 2, “… securing the best possible terms and conditions of employment.

As some unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of the plight of our seafarers who met an accident, illness or death in the course of their service by exploiting the compensation system, our

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seafarers have fallen prey to an unfair scheme where ambulance chasers charge exorbitant fees, with the promise of huge monetary award. “ Section 3 prohibits ambulance chasing and Section 4 caps lawyering fees to a maximum 10% of benefits awarded in any claim arising from accident, illness or death by the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) or any labor arbiter, the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB), the Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), the Labor Department (DoLE), or other quasi-judicial bodies handling labor disputes.

Penalties for violation is between PhP50,000 to 100,000 fine or a year or two in jail, or both. DoLE, POEA and MARINA must craft the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10706 within 90 days from the signing into.

Shipowners.

The law was triggered by a NCMB ruling granting $275,000 to a seafarer for the loss of about two centimeters of his middle finger. The shipowner was incensed and pulled off his 20 ships from Philippine operations; Filipino seafarers who lost their jobs mounted protest rallies against the government agency.

The Managing Director of the Esa Group, Mr. Ivo Guidi comments, “I

think the national government justice should look more in details when a court case is brought… not to fall into certain situations which are really unhealthy for everybody.”

Lady Captain Romina Perrone of KShips is more blunt, “Filipino seafarers has to pay attention because we noted already some bad attitude on certain things. Let me say that they are doing like Italian seafarers 20 years ago. And Italian seafarers disappear.”

At Philmancon.

Cong. Jesulito Manalo, Angkla PartyList, was trudging on edge, whether to inspire shipowners or turn off seafarers: “I could not speak for the shipowners if they consider the bill as something useful… (but) I believe that we have given the seafarer adequate protection from abuses and this will be a deterrent from others to become exploitative…”

NCMB Director Teresita Audea puts on the defensive armor, “(D)ecisions are final and executory pending appeal because that’s the law unless a temporary restraining order is issued so we cannot stop the execution process.”

“It is pursuant to the Labor Code that the decision of the Commission are final and executory even pending appeal before the court of appeals and the Supreme Court. We just have to follow the law,” adds Grace Tan, NLRC Presiding

Commissioner.

At CrewConnect.

“We produce so many outstanding seafarers and yet many of our policies are not friendly to the shipping or the maritime industry and there’s a growing realization that must change…” declares Sen. Sonny Angara, Acting Chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor.

He was confident, then, President Aquino will sign into law the measure he authored in the Senate and originated

by Manalo in the Lower House (as Congress is bicameral). Angara is also pushing for the Magna Carta for Seafarers, an enabling law to implement the Maritime Labor Convention 2006 (MLC).

for the beneficiary to utilize specially if he is really disabled.

on without regular billings and capped at 10% on his fees.

The Maritime Lawyers Association (MARLAW) is split on the amendments, not even formally discussing it in meetings, claims Atty. Dennis Gorecho but adds the measure suffers from legal infirmities.

PartyList President Butch Elaba of the Association of Marine Officers and Ratings (AMOR) is repulsive in that claims are already mandated for payment yet will still be set aside on escrow.

Atty. Edwin dela Cruz of the International Seafarers Action Center (ISAC) is on a different tact. He says ambulance chasing is not much of a concern but POEA’s contract policy that

But shorn of sentimentalities and hyping for the “poor”, shipowners may rightfully balk for millions of dollars not restituted, or unpaid back, by mariners or their families when awards are reduced or overturned by higher courts.

Escrow.

Complimenting RA 10706 is House Bill 5430 filed last February by Manalo amending Article 223 of Presidential Decree 442, also known as the Labor Code, for money judgment to be deposited to an Escrow account pending appeals.

Manalo sees benefits for both the seafarer and the shipowner: funds are guaranteed should the claimant be upheld or restitution ready for the shipowner on reversal of the decision.

But at Philmancon, Manalo admits “This is a very difficult piece of legislation.”

Atty. Ruben Del Rosario, Managing Director of Del Rosario Pandiphil, encourages support for Manalo because, “… that’s the only solution that I can think of with regard to execution, final and executory. And I’m sure it’s gonna have rough sailing but …we have to change the law.”

Qualms.

Atty Paterno Menzon, Director of Maritime Voluntary Arbitrators Association (PMVAA) seeks clarifications whether escrow is on all or portion of the award; any timeline on withdrawal except on finality of the case; is Manalo amenable to a partial deposit

Atty. Allan Montano, president emeritus of the Federation of Free Workers, laments that even if the Voluntary Arbiter has ordered payment to the claimant or his beneficiaries, award money will still be frozen in escrow should management files an appeal.

There is also the threat of mass relocation of shipping operations to more friendly countries salivating on the boom the maritime industry could contribute to any economy. This is not idle talk as proven by a recent pull-out of an exasperated shipowner of global range.

Congressman Manalo

is “restrictive” to seafarers who must defend claims, pushing them to seek the services of lawyers.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz takes another stance, that of self-regulation of the maritime industry without government intervention nor lawyers in settling disputes. She broached the idea in a speech at the recent National Seafarers Day (NSD) celebrations at the Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City, attended by maritime cadets and practitioners.

Timelines.

It has been observed it takes about ten years to settle with finality when labor cases are tried in appellate courts. Money loses purchasing power, the claimant is normally out of a job and only lawyers of less credential and clientele would hang-

Add to this powder keg the Philippine reputation as a very litigious people, of business tied up in legal squabbles instead of pragmatic negotiations in goodwill.

As direct representative of maritime interests, Cong. Manalo cannot just look the other way but must confront this bogeyman. He must have the guts of a Commando on a rescue mission: free the victim at all cost (ergo, resolve the odds between shipowners and seafarers).

PartyList Angkla seems not a movement borne of the streets; it is a move studied from the boardroom. Thus, it is expected to be less sentimental but more effective in untying Gordian knots in the maritime industry.

And its First Nominee, Atty Jesulito Manalo, has been steady and incisive, so far.

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Ship Registry

Senior VP Robert Fay and COO John Ramage with Klaveness VP Torbjorn Eide at the inaugurals.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands

REGISTRY IN MANILA

The recently opened office in Manila is the 27th in the global network of International Registries, Inc. and its affiliates (IRI), who provide administrative and technical support to the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime and Corporate Registries. This is the seventh (7th) IRI office to offer comprehensive seafarers’ documentation production.

The RMI Registry has experienced significant fleet growth in recent years, surpassing 128 million gross tons and more than 3,710 vessels at the end of November 2015. According to Clarksons World Fleet Monitor December 2014 issue, the RMI Registry grew by over 13% in 2014, the largest increase among the top 10 flag States.

SIRBs, the new office in Manila will help this increasingly large number of seafarers receive the required expedited documentation,” continued Mr. Ramage.

Uljanik Shipmanagement, Ulstein Marine Services and Navis Maritime Services, specializing in ship and crew management,” continued Ms. Ng.

Captain Robert Fay, Senior Vice President, Maritime Operations, observed, “the sheer volume of seafarers who will require new or refresher training and certification as a result of the Manila Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) prior to the entry into force on 1 January 2017 is tremendous.”

“There are currently three staffers processing applications and issuing Certificates of Receipt of Application in Manila, with plans to add more by January in order to provide the best service possible,” said Mr. Bolivar.

Captain Fay also notes many Certificates of Competency and Proficiency issued in the past few years are based on older requirements, which will expire on 31 December 2016.

John Ramage, Chief Operating Officer, ascribes the unprecedented growth of the fleet in part to IRI’s model of decentralization. “IRI has the largest network of any registry, allowing our technical and marine safety experts to provide timely service to owners and operators anywhere in the world.”

“The Manila office will work in coordination with IRI offices in Hong Kong and Mumbai to help facilitate training and certification review for Filipino seafarers for essential documentation in a timely manner,” said Ms. Annie Ng, Head of Asia.

“As the RMI fleet grows, the number of seafarers holding RMI Seafarer’s Identification and Record Books (SIRBs) has risen as well. As Filipino seafarers hold over 35% of RMI

“Our Manila office currently has four personnel and is headed by Leo Bolivar, who has previously worked with major companies in the industry such as Stolt-Nielsen Philippines,

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IRI aims to continue its trend of service expansion and growth in the coming years by further increasing its model of decentralization and maintaining close relationships with industry stakeholders.

The most important asset to the RMI Registry is its clients and IRI strives to provide them with full service, 24 hours a day, from any of its 27 worldwide offices.

Scoop interview.

Marino World was recently privileged to a one-on-one interview with Manila Manager Bolivar, also a Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI).

He holds office at the posh Five E-Com MOA Complex, Pasay City, fast becoming a maritime hub with the increasing number of manning outfits, ship agents, and shipmanagement, locating in the trendy center.

“The Manila office will work in coordination with IRI offices in Hong Kong and Mumbai to help facilitate training and certification review for Filipino seafarers for essential documentation in a timely manner.”

- Annie Ng, Head of Asia Head for Asia Annie Ng at the CrewConnect Global press briefing.

As far back as October 26, IRI-Manila has accepted and processed applications from accredited filing agents. Formal inauguration of the office was last November 10th, well-received and attended by important clients and representatives.

The majority of IRI clients are Greek shipowners, followed by Norwegians.

Mr. Bolivar says the market in Manila “is very wide,” not only for seafarers, but also for vessel registration, shipowners coming and asking their counterparts in the Philippines how to reflag their vessels to the RMI.

The Manila office is not just a transfer but an augmentation since other offices are already receiving more than the volume they can accommodate with business servicing. Demands continue to increase because in shipping, it is conducive to operate where seafarers can secure certification more easily.

Bolivar confirms that the Japanese are interested and have placed inquiries on putting more business in RMI, particularly on vessel registration.

He notes reflagging affects the crew and impacts about 40% of vessel operations.

But it’s a breeze to reflag, even online now with efficient technology.

Manila is ideal since on top, she has accredited Filipino technicians and

inspectors.

Positive response is overwhelming that processing is done in Manila already. But IRI is not given to the rush for it has an excellent record to maintain and protect.

It refuses to be goaded by just income but takes careful steps, aligning the systems and controlling the number of clients to a given max to avoid inefficiency due to overload.

By this January, corporate and vessel registration could be on the pipeline.

Once backed-up with more and expert staff, Bolivar himself will definitely lead to expand the market, assured that, “… the system is good, it’s in place.”

Manila Manager Leo Bolivar with staff

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Marino World Tenth Year

SPARKLING ANNIVERSARY! Defining, with under-stated elegance.

Salabas

That’s the 10th Anniversary celebrations of Marino World of its first decade.

•

Maritime Doctors Association VP Joseph Abesamis

Gracing the Honors and Gala Night on September 22 at the Palacio de Maynila are major stakeholders of the maritime industry led by:

•

Rotary Club of Makati Buendia President Emil Castro

•

Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption Chairman Martin Dino

•

H.E. Rolando Alvarado, Panama Ambassador to the Philippines

•

Administrator Maximo Mejia, Jr., Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)

•

Chief Hans Leo Cacdac, Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)

•

Capt. Ronald Enrile, Angkla Partylist Second Nominee

•

President Guilbert Llamado, Merchant Marine Academy Alumni (PMMAAA)

•

President Jaime Quinones, Society of Filipino Ship Captains

Senior executives of manning firms, shipping agencies and training centers were joined in by past and incumbent officials of government and civic organizations, prominently: •

Former Coastguard Commandant Ramon Liwag

•

Former Natl Labor Relations Commissioner Teresita Lora

•

Board of Marine Examiner Chairman Jaime Morales

•

Asso of Maritime Institutions Immediate Past President Elizabeth

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Top Ten. Highlight was the proclamation of the Maritime Top Ten, evaluated from the past ten years of their dynamics with the maritime industry: Awardees were escorted by Honor Guards from cadets of the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies. Hosts of the night were Onin and Gel Miranda of Net 25 television.

Entertainment.

After the anthem and doxology, the evening opened with the enchanting interpretation of Ms. Sweet SamaniegoBuchanan of the emotional, Con Te Partiro’ (I Will Go With You). As a flipside at dinner, the Ephesus Teatron Group did a world-class performance of a medley from Les Miserables, on that night the King’s soldiers are to quash the students revolt.

Not to be outperformed, Maestro Jaworski Bago conducted with passion the Coast Guard Symphonic Band to the dining pleasure of the celebrants. And the quick steps and floor elegance of the nearly young, mostly at heart.

Earlier, Marino World had liaison with the finalists of the Western Union nationwide search for Ten Outstanding

Maritime Students (TOMS) for its magazine cover. The teaming with the outstanding reflects its aspiration to be exceptional: “that we inform, not impress; that we print a meaningful fusion of news and views,” explains Lyn Bacani, publisher.

More cheers.

Adjunct to the elegant night was a casual event with seafarers with raffles and video challenge held at the Seafarer Center, 5F SM Manila, September 24 and 28.

Winners of the voice challenge were Steve Aldaba, junior waiter at Magsaysay Maritime and Jerry Santianez, stage technician at Philippine Transmarine Carriers. They received cash prizes and a grand videoke rhapsody unit worth P11,499.

Pag-IBIG Fund conducted a seminar to update mariners on its services.

Major sponsors of the 10th Anniversary celebrations are PTC, BW Shipping, Maersk Filipinas Crewing, Manila North Harbor Port, Pag-IBIG Fund, NEWSIM, Avida Land, Smart Comm, BYD Cars and Suntrust.

Marino World was first distributed at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, on September 25, 2005 at the audience of the National Seafarers Day. Ten years hence, Marino World is now on full color, glossy paper, with a growing domestic and international readership. It marches with what is recent on communications technology, a digital edition with free download at www. marinoworld.com.ph.

Marino World Selections

MARITIME TOP 10 S

o much may be learned from a man who retires not with a gold watch on his wrist but a charitable foundation to his name.

president of federated associations and a nominee of a PartyList for a seat in the Lower House of Congress.

He is Filipino, as he is an iconic Ivy Leaguer: class president, corps commander, editor-in-chief and summa cum laude, Marine Transport (’67), at PMMA, the State premiere maritime school, the oldest in Asia.

Technically, he is retired. Practically, he never will be. After all, he is Chairman of the OSM Board; yet, all around town on external affairs of maritime stakeholders.

He served the Navy for 12 years, the Coast Guard for three. In this tenure, he was sent as solo delegate to the IMO STCW 78 Convention in London.

RAdm ADONIS B. DONATO, PCGA A Lifetime of Achievement

On deactivation, he pursued his master license and commanded bulk carriers for five years across the world’s oceans. He even saved a Dutch family of three from a sinking yacht off the French Coast in 1993.

With his peers in OSM, he holds on his competency onboard and credentials in the Board. But overarching is his goodwill: consistent, not contrite; deep into the soul, beyond the veneer of business or profit.

I

of references than dominating with vested interests.

Small wonder his current project, the Integrated Seafarers of the Philippines (ISP), is developing by leaps and bounds.

He acts on his words: setting up the Gaudencio C. Morales Foundation for poor but deserving wards assisting in education, livelihood, community development, donation and relief operations. This is on top of heading the PMMAAA Foundation and other acts of charity.

Reintegration and Payback Advocate

When a government agency burned down, seafarers following up essential documents thereat were stalled. Instead of simply waiting for government repairs which is often ignored and at best delayed, he immediately gave a donation that accelerated the rebuilding.

He spent 20 years in global seafaring, 23 in OFW employment and business. He now owns and manages 15 firms employing 6,000 in maritime, real estate and services with priority on job opportunities.

He is soft-spoken and believes in sincere dialogue rather than heated debates; in understanding points

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And as Marino World looks back in our own years, this is the man behind our sail --- silent but certain, with help that gestates and not mere gestures.

He joined OSM Maritime Services, became President and GM for 20 years. Double-tasking as executive and reformer, he was involved in almost all major maritime organizations, elected (and always re-elected) to senior positions, like

t seems ambivalent, leading a simple, sheltered life with wife Lidwina, with two daughters and three sons reared on developing needs rather than catering to wants. But renouncing a gaudy lifestyle appears opposite to his reach-out for corporate social responsibilities, centered on re-integration of seafarers to the mainstream and payback to the community of those blessed with career and professional success.

Capt. GAUDENCIO C. MORALES

But he pauses for the smile of a lady, the former Miss Josefina Pascual. Blissful for the past 43 years, gifted with Cheri, their only child, now Mrs. Villasin, mother of Chloe Angelie, Christine Noelle and Erasmus Adonis --- all three energizing the Admiral’s heart.

Like ISP has a radio program every Saturday over DZIQ with synergized segments: legal by Atty. Jann Pelayo, health by Dra. Jill Casacop, agribusiness and investments by Capt. Danny Ricohermoso and maritime news by Marielle Tibayan.

ISP offers weekly free seminars on practical knowledge through SHIP (Seafarers and their Household Integrated Program) plus benefits on ISP Multi-purpose Cooperative. Just recently, ISP signed a MoA with National Reintegration Center-OFWs (NRCO-DoLE) with Director Chona M. Montila for joint administration of a business planning competitions and allied projects with access to various agencies of compatible agenda.

He is a director of the Japan Manning and Consultative Council and recipient of outstanding awards from the Overseas Worker Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), among the major ones.

A man ahead of his time, a reformer for the essentials of life --- a leader, the leader: multidimensional and pragmatic.

F

ounder and president, he nurtured Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) for 17 years to date and going. His critics may accuse him of a star complex. But the public believes he is Star Trek -- for going where justice has never gone before.

Indeed, Dante is a champion of the least, the armor of the lost, the redemption of the last in the disparity of life.

Commo. DANTE LA. JIMENEZ, PCGA Exemplar of Justice

He roars on overdrive with his conviction as he harnesses those of kindred spirit, regardless of how long, regardless of how difficult. For he is action incarnate, a voice that bellows for victims of crimes who are meek.

Dante served under three presidents as Commissioner; President Ramos’ AntiCrime Commission (PACC-1998), President Estrada’s Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC-2000) and President Arroyo’s Commission Against Private Armies (CAPA2010). And, concurrently, Director/Consultant at the Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-2010).

Commo. Dante La. Jimenez, PCGA, holds an AB Journalism degree from the University of Santo Tomas, served the Navy onboard for ten years (74 to 84) on duty and deck, admin, damage control and intelligence.

He is the District Commodore of the Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) for Bicol Region since 2006.

While he has military, civic, and business citations, his main zeal is in seeking justice for crimes on persons and conviction for the corrupt.

B

He is an accredited medical doctor by foreign governments like The Netherlands, United Kingdom and Sweden.

y fate, Dr. Oca was heir to the challenge of leading the country’s largest union of maritime professionals. Not only did he minister with distinction, he even enriched the services to the men of the blue waters.

All these while serving in the academe (Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific), in international maritime union (International Transport Workers’ Federation-ITF), and in mariners’ hospitals in Manila, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao.

Dr. CONRADO F. OCA Worthy Torchbearer of a Great Tradition

He is an educator, president of a maritime institution with two campuses in Bicol. He leads two manning firms, Unlad and Global. Dante is actively involved in professional bodies like the Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) and the Marine Environment Protection Association (PhilMEPA) which he also founded.

He holds fondly to his high school years, like chairing the San Beda College Alumni Foundation; just as he is a lifetime member of the Medical Association (PMA), a fellow in the College of Hospital Administrators, with membership in other health organizations.

He passed the licensure examinations in 1993; a graduate from the University of the East - Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC); honed up with specializations from the University of the Phil-Manila, University of Asia and the Pacific, and at the Ateneo de Manila University.

Dr. Oca is a Distinguished Bedan, recipient of the 2014 Daluyang Buhay Leadership award; also 2012 Outstanding Leadership honors from UERMMMC Alumni.

The College of Hospital Administrators has recognized his invaluable services in its conventions from 1995 to 2011. So did then Philippine Vice-President De Castro in Dr. Oca’s dental outreach in Oriental Mindoro in 2009; and the Association of Phil Physicians in Ohio for his surgical-medical mission in Lapulapu City in 2002.

Dr. Oca is also a speaker on health services, be it for civic organizations or company internals like that of Net Ship Management in June, 2003 and the plenary of the 6th International Symposium on Maritime Health (ISMH) of the International Maritime Health Association in November, 2001.

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35

Marino World Selections

MARITIME TOP 10 Y

es, there have been plans just as jockeying and rumblings. But only one founded in 2012 became The Voice in Congress in 2013: the ANGKLA PartyList.

Atty. JESULITO MANALO ANGKLA PARTYLIST Voice of Merchant Mariners

Capt. Ronald Enrile is the Second Nominee.

4. Heighten awareness on seafarers’ contribution to the country; and

ANGKLA believes a directed approach to policymaking will ensure the alignment of the Philippine educational system towards global competitiveness.

5. Spearhead seafarers’ participation in government.

ANGKLA is synergy between maritime and legal experts for the development of a legislative agenda rationalized into action programs.

In the past two years alone, ANGKLA believes it has achieved targets and prides itself on a successful first legislative term.

ANGKLA also includes seafarers themselves and their families; ship owners and ship managers; nongovernmental organizations; legal practitioners; unions; academics and students.

But his heart went frenetic, bleeding for the hapless victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda.

Instead of the comfort of apathy, Capt. Blom marshaled the resources of the Norwegian Training Center; appealing to every associate and those willing to spare helping hands, coordinating with relief teams on the hour, every minute. Yes, a 24/7 commitment for those miles and miles away, even unknown to him.

This is unexpected of a Naval military man, perceived stern and by the books.

For he was a sub lieutenant in 1981 and a Commander by 1994, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard vessels operating in the Barent Sea for search and rescue, fishery inspection, research and EEZ patrol with police powers and a helicopter.

Blom was also Navigation Officer of Norge, the Royal yacht and a license naval pilot on the West

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2. Coordinate with government agencies; 3. Create Maritime High Schools each in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao;

s Managing Director, he could keep his nose on his Center, his eyes on what more to be shipshape. He need not care, secured in the sunshine of Manila. And a foreigner, why be involved in the calamities of the locals?

Corporate Civic Heart

1. Protect seafarer’s livelihood;

The First Nominee is an Ateneo graduate, a lawyer who lives in Tagaytay City, chosen for his eminent legal practice and analytical savvy.

A

Capt. ERIK FREBERG BLOM

Its’ Five-Point Legislative Agenda:

Coast of Norway.

He passed the exam on Philosophy and a lower law degree at the University of Bergen, the Naval Staff College, and a year at the Marine German school.

His cadetship is unique on the tall ship, Christian Radich.

By 2012, he is Safety & Quality Manager on Grieg Shipping with vessels 100% manned with Filipino seafarers. Earlier from 2007, he was Director, Maritime Services-Grieg Logistics, operating two ports in Norway.

He sailed the world as Captain on Fred Olsen Cruise lines, his last on the MS Black Watch with a crew of 330 from 20 nations (220 from the Philippines). He was Operation Manager for Wilson EuroCarriers in Bergen, with about 100 ships in the Short Sea trade.

The Philippines will miss Capt. Erik, a true “native” as he exits by late September for another overseas posting. But he will never be just a memory. For he is active in the hearts of people he helped. Even if he need not. And because he insisted.

W

hen survival depends on someone’s hands, better these be of Capt. Pacheco’s for his are competent and tested in crises. For one, he captained to safety the crew, carrier and cargo from savage pirates when the MV Stolt Strength floated hapless for the picking.

Capt. ABELARDO M. PACHECO Best Captain to a Destiny

“The night stressed to unbelievable uncertainties, the bogey man sneering on the minds of agitated men,” writes Pacheco of the pathos and pun in his book, Somali Guns In Our Heads.

He lectured, managed private teaching institutions and assessed for the government (through CHEd and PRC) professional competencies of merchant mariners. Currently, Pacheco is a lecturer and Assistant Training Director at Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP).

Himself is a survivor; the only child to mature in a brood of 12, recovering from a steam blast while inspecting ship engine. And several near-misses from attacks, always able to evade pirates given discretion to plot his own course.

He has spoken of his captivity by pirates in New York and Washington, in Paris and Singapore, at local venues on his continuing advocacy for maritime reforms (the latter he much prefer for rapport directly with stakeholders).

Honor student since grade school, he graduated 8th in a nationwide class of 76 scholars from the Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) with post graduate studies on marine transport, meteorology and oceanography from other universities.

In the noise of maritime debates, he keeps his bearings to the only True North --- his God, keeping faith unblemished against whatever life throws in. Spirituality is the core of his family with Ms. Asuncion (nee Ganalon) rearing six children both are proud of.

He started as shipboard cadet in Kobe, Japan and the Philippine Navy. He was Junior officer in

I

mpressive is her Testimony, written on inspiration by Father Anthony Paganoni, on the pitch and roll of a seafarer’s wife. They went tramping, a leg even called on 36 ports in 17 months. Her travel diary was not just places and views but a keen observation of life abroad and aboard of Pinoy mariners.

Her husband started overseas at Vietnam, in the war zone of the Mekong River. And, “…there were lonely days nagging: what’s the use of getting married when there is no one to share with, or cry on. Nor celebrate moments of triumph?”

Dr. ALICE C. LAMIGO The Home Port

Israel, Britain, Canada and Japan; Senior OfficerMaster in Norway, the Netherlands, France, Sweden, Malaysia, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Japan, the Philippines, the oceans of the world!

She organized the Seamen’s Wives Association (SWAPI) in 1978; in 1983 Archbishop Gabriel V. Reyes assigned the Apostleship of the Sea (AOS) to minister to SWAPI. In 1985, Dr. Lamigo was speaker at the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA), at the AOS ’87 World Congress of 54 countries.

SWAPI was renamed SWIF (Seamen’s Wives Foundation); in 2000 reviewed goals set in 1978.

Focus is now on solo parenting and separation blues from akyat barko (sex workers onboard ships) and salary delays.

It is recognized by ICMA, ITF-London and in Denmark. It has chapters in Tacloban, Cebu, Davao, Palawan, Bohol and Marinduque.

The old thinking was allotment is a privilege.

Today, it is as business calls budget and shipowners term as opex, operating expenses.

For the Mate ashore is a Chief Engineer, running the household engine of food, clothing and shelter plus electricity, water, rentals, the basics. Also, the land Master who charters family lifestyle, children, education, worship, kinship relations.

And when needed, your Mate is Management to take care of external issues and internal challenges.

Marino World has witnessed success of the teamwork when DoLE, OWWA, POEA, agencies, highlight outstanding mariners --- with mates generally unrecognized. And we have seen devastation of dreams when either Mates are stricken with disease, accident, even death in the seas and in the household.

Let alone carnal weakness that creeps on lonely nights; when love is overpowered by desire --- and the flesh is without the illumination of the Spirit.

There is when SWIF must be elemental, striking deep that at the end of the solitary voyage is the beginning of a happy journey. Together, at the home port.

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Marino World Selections

MARITIME TOP 10 A

nd why not an all-women crew for ocean ships? Leveling gender in the professional field!

Surely, Capt. Labarda carries strong credentials: unlimited DP license, STCW Chief Mate license (Bahamas and UK endorsed), Master Mariner, MBA. Among the essentials.

Her maritime and DP instructor was the legendary Carlos C. Salinas, also Chairman of both Filipino Shipowners Association and the Phil. Transmarine Carriers while Philippine Ambassador to Spain.

Capt. JASMIN C. LABARDA First Filipina Ship Captain Prospect

Labarda is Chief Officer/SDPO at Technip with specialties onshore, offshore and subsea services; postings in Singapore, Gulf of Mexico, Middle East and West Africa on diving support vessels, including Deep Blue, one of the largest purpose-

A

t 32 and still single, the horizon is as wide for Mark as his eyes may roam. Yet, he does not covet the gold at the end of the rainbow. Instead, he struggles hard to establish his footing in business and civic enterprises that interests him.

Firstly, he completes his BS Political Science from De La Salle (Dasmarinas) while starting with Info Technology from Asia Pacific College.

Secondly, he reports as Director and Crewing Manager testing the blue waters of global merchant marine competitions. At the Ortigas Center office, Mark works like a man possessed.

Mr. MARK N. DAVID Most Promising Maritime Leader

Yet, he is multi-tasking as CEO of Marked Productions, an events enterprise he owns. At the same time, he is a financial adviser from New York Life on insurance and investments.

To quench his leadership, he joined in 2005 the Junior Chamber International (Jaycees), ParanaquePambato Chapter. In 2006, he was Outstanding New Member; in 2008, Outstanding Director. By 2013, he is Outstanding Regional VP-Metro South.

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built deepwater pipelay and subsea construction vessels.

She is an instructor at the Intl Maritime & Offshore Training Institute (IMOSTI), Manila; proficient in Independent Coursework, inclusive of Maritime Instructor’s course.

The lady started cadetship with Maersk Line and by 2008, promoted Second Class Officer plying worldwide on tankers, very large crude carriers and container vessels.

Strong bets are on her career success and defining leadership. As if to serve notice, she assumed in June 2011 the presidency of the Alumni Society of Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific.

In 2009, he joined Rotary District 3830, at Rotary Club of Makati Buendia. By 2013, he was already the Club President.

He was also elected in 2003 as Kagawad (Councilman) for the Sanguniang Kabataan (Youth Council) of Barangay Manuyo Dos, Las Pinas City, Metro Manila.

Mark finds time to refine his mind. He attends short courses like Chartered Business Administration, External Auditor (Bureau Veritas), Basic Safety Training (Far East Maritime Foundation), Accounting for Non-Accountants and Vanguard Leadership Training-JCI. With such phasing and zest, Mark is arguably enriching the bench of our Maritime industry, given a few more years to explore and to mature.

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          

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 

     

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Delivered at the HONORS AND GALA NIGHT Marino World Tenth Anniversary Palacio de Maynila 22 September, 2015

A VISION BEYOND As a full-blooded Filipino, I cannot open up on anything without the customary litany of thank-you-for-this, and thankyou-for that. Utang-na-loob or debt of gratitude is our national moral base from whence arises the beautiful customs of salamat po, salamat po.

Given the fact Marino World is actually a cooperative of efforts all of ten years, I would not know where to begin the thank-you and where to end the salamatpo. More so, for things done and things

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yet in the offing.

May I, therefore, seek your understanding, each one, to whom I am really indebted, that I carry you in my nightly prayers. And you are in every page of all the issues, whether print or digital edition. For nothing much could be done without your helping hand; nothing to achieve without your caring heart.

If at all we could categorize my

indebtedness, topshelf will be the seafarers and their families for they are the reason why we exist. Next are the entrepreneurs who support our existence, with both data and dough.

We also appreciate the transparency of government agencies to communicate their mandates and their manhours. And quite frankly, spark our journalism with their policies probed in detail by dynamic leaders of professional associations like schools, manning and training centers.

“We shall be a middling voice; or if need be, a meddling pen for the seafarers families, our government officials, maritime executives, and shipowners.”

Internally with the staff, both paid and pro bono, there is so much zeal and proactive ways. Aching muscles of weathered veterans are supplemented by the zest and eagerness of the new recruits gushing to learn; each trying to anticipate the needs of the other.

In fact, Marino World is blessed with two associates gifted in arts and in letters, creative and editorial. But tonight, I have a no-name-mentioned policy.

And our roll of columnists in the past ten years is quite impressive, mostly role leaders in their own fields and specialties, onboard and ashore, business executives and educators, legal minds and government officials. Today, we still have a merry mix, a spectrum of independent minds with their own concerns to explore.

We even get unsolicited manuscripts from linked-in, universities and associations, domestic and abroad; regular columns from England, Hong Kong, Singapore.

Tonight, allow me to roll my hair down, share with you my inner thoughts. And I readily realize the truth that when the heart is full, lips are dumb.

And honestly, my heart is pumping now with pride, my lips whispering in my mind…ang bait, bait ng Panginoon sa akin!” Thank you po, Dear Lord!

For tonight, I am in formalities with major stakeholders of the Philippine Maritime industry. Ten years back, I was sweating it out at the Quirino Grandstand, in Rizal Park, handing person-to-person my first Publisher’s Note.

That was work, September 25, 2005, the 10th National Seafarers Day. Tonight is reward, and validation that Marino World is viable, as it is vibrant.

Thus, we continue to sail to carry out our

advocacy of sparking synergy between the government and the private sector to better address concerns of our seafarers.

We shall keep a positive mindview, translating the informative to the inspirational for the lives of our seafarers. But we shall document their adventures, the ups and downs, their dreams and their frustrations. We shall be a middling voice; or if need be, a meddling pen --- for the seafarers families, our government officials, maritime executives, and shipowners.

Like these cadets, Marino World has just begun.

Our moral chant is that Marino World is YOU. The industry vision is also ours, like firming up being the world’s manning capital; to hasten the trend of Filipino merchant mariners fast becoming the majority of masters aboard global ships. This is picked from BIMCO, the respected Baltic and International Maritime Council.

We have tried to follow the trail in our decade of journey. We have met many people with different skills, interesting lives and lifestyles. Some have brilliant ideas, fancy weavings and brave hearts.

All these wrapped into challenging coverage for “the fusion of news and views.”

And the little known fact we are the world’s fourth on tonnage in shipbuilding. Our Ship Registry should compete well with the rest, adjusted with an enlightened Cabotage law and subsidiary Port State policies.

Marino World is in the trenches and canteens, on deck and below, in boardrooms and plenary halls. Almost everywhere, whenever things maritime matter. Ten years of these, and more. As the poet, Edgar Allan Poe, writes… “to ever more!”

For one, we need the attention of the Presidency to initiate defining reforms and not just for rhinestone glitters in the annual SONA. We must cross the Rubicon of the EMSA audit, re-channel inter-agency turfs, correct policy limbo that rocks institutions and cadets’ future.

Among issues aching to be resolved involve three lives; or sadly, may be three deaths. First is O/S Juan Valentin Taloza missing until today while watchkeeping in Congo, Central Africa.

Next is Honor Cadet Felipe Borra declared suicide on board with his own belt. But a second autopsy by the NBI reveals contrary evidences. The third is 2nd Mate Cenon Ortigosa, Jr. whose death may have been aggravated by insurance scams on medical coverage.

And then we have to inspire against those who conspire for their vested interest in the 2016 Presidential derby.

Indeed, so much work still to be done.

Thus, we know we have just begun.

We confirm this view with our Anniversary cover page. Our future hangs on the young and the outstanding, like these cadets who are finalists in the annual nationwide search for the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students.

More work are still needed.

But Marino World will be on watchkeeping: to alert, to listen and to feel as we continue to write your story.

This is a renewal of commitment, like a first wedding in my life. I was just engaged before. But now, I am married to the industry: in joy and in pain, on calm waters or rough seas. Together, we will grow; together, we will conquer!

And who knows, my sailor may even anchor on the next anniversary.

Godspeed Marino World! God bless Maritime Philippines!

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41

Training

COMPASS-IMOSTI & C-NERGY

MARITIME IN THE HIGHLANDS

Nature cradles man’s architecture

Come vibrant 2016, COMPASS will be at the posh C-NERGY International Convention and Leisure Center (C-NERGY Center), offering Basic and Advance Safety Training compliant to STCW 2010 Manila Amendments.

Established in 2009, Competent Maritime Professional and Sea Staff (COMPASS) Training Center, Inc. is Filipino-owned, a shared initiative of maritime professionals and practitioners.

COMPASS provides advanced training facilities and globally-recognized teaching methodology.

And conducting sessions at the C-NERGY Center is another leveling up, arguably a notch among the best in the industry.

So is the International Maritime & Offshore Safety Training Institute (IMOSTI), a premiere center for learning and competence development for the marine and offshore sectors.

Compliant with all the quality standards and regulations in the industry, IMOSTI provides superior training and education for human resources making the company the most recognized partner in the maritime and offshore petroleum industry. And this, just going on its 8th year of operations.

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At C-NERGY Center, offshore courses are geared for Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization (OPITO) accreditation in the same year and will be managed by IMOSTI, Inc. Through this initiative, the first in Asia Pacific region, IMOSTI and C-NERGY International will jointly offer their products and services internationally.

Convention and leisure C-NERGY International Convention and Leisure Center was formally launched December 5, essentially a soft opening, too. The world-class facility is to develop on an 8.4 hectares site, so majestic at the highlands of Silang, Cavite, 10 minutes from the resort city of Tagaytay.

C-NERGY Center will host a full range offshore oil and gas and maritime safety training center. Most sites are either in urban or coastal areas. C-NERGY Center is the first and only one lording it on top, in the highlands.

Program The launching was not grandiose but defining. This, one can feel from the caliber of guests: manning and ship management executives, business partners and suppliers (like Furuno, ARI Simulation and Wavelink Maritime

Institute).

Shareholders who are seafarers were proudly present with their families, officers and staff of the consortium, and representatives from MARINA. A Roman Catholic Mass opened the ceremonies, followed by the blessings and tour of the facilities (with more units clearly being rushed to completion).

At the ribbon- cutting to symbolize start of operations, rain fell. This was a clear omen of great things to come, blessings from the sky.

And reason the audience raised glasses as toast for the success of C-NERGY Center and its partners, this project a watermark in domestic operations and world-class in implication.

Dinner was sumptuous as was the gladhanding and reach-outs among guests and hosts. Raffles jazzed the audience; as was the brilliant firework display (ablaze to achieve the goals, a bright future ahead!)

The major concept.

If one expects stress as parcel of learning, come up high --- come to the high vision of C-NERGY Center and have real fun as you learn your specialties.

World-class training and educational facilities, with eco-friendly wellness amenities. A total 8.4 hectares of space and horizon, a development that will be overlooking nature’s architecture laced with the bounty of fruit-bearing trees and vegetation.

Yet, the builders of C-NERGY Center still add these luxuries: • •

• •

• •

250-seat column-free convention and exhibition center; Catering and facility management academy to train and certify chefs and culinary staff for the offshore oil and gas and maritime sector; 3,000 sqm lagoon for watercraft training Three-storey ship-inspired firehouse with helideck and Bell 206B mockup for firefighting and helicopter landing officer training programs.

Olympic sized sea survival training pool Edible landscaped gardens

And more with the training rooms, gymnasium, business center and restaurant as jewels nestled over 3.8 hectare of green, rolling upland.

For technical training, there is an industrial barn (1,000 sqm) for welding, blasting and all other electro-mechanical competencies. On top, there will be 20 native villas to rest and relax at, in guarded privacy for participants and visitors.

Collaboration of Energy.

C-NERGY Center is the first venture of C-NERGY International Incorporated, a property management and development corporation. The latter primary service is to provide facilities and infrastructure for training and education and professionals for the maritime and offshore oil and gas industry.

C-NERGY Group acts as the holding firm for COMPASS, IMOSTI, C-NERGY International and Cinergy Diversified Resources (soon to be launched). The Group is founded by investors who are stakeholders in the

C-Nergy with local officials

maritime and offshore industry. They hold a common vision of building together a world-class brand to service the maritime, offshore oil and gas industries.

Leveraging on developmental posture to make individual organization competitive and sustainable, COMPASS Training Center, Inc. and IMOSTI, Inc. in consolidation of their medium and long term programs, form part of what is now the business program of C-NERGY International, Inc. Core beliefs.

At the corporate launching, both optimism and realities were reflected

by IMOSTI President and C-NERGY International, Inc. Board Chairman, Mr. Tristan Diaz: “We are celebrating today perhaps not just the launching of this facility but more so a gathering of family and friends…(and) as we gained new ones so that something like this may be realized.

It took us so many years to understand how to build a proper infrastructure that would tell not just the people around us but countries that deals with our maritime professionals how to understand and how to deliver training and education.

As we built IMOSTI in 2007, COMPASS in 2009 and then C-NERGY International in 2010. We could not act responsibly by just joining the bandwagon… that the maritime training and education in the Philippines is a pot of gold.

In 2007, we talked to friends whom

now we consider partners and family.

In 2009 I had talked to friends who, in like manner, became friends and family.

Same goes with C-NERGY International and as we are right now friends and family.

We are presenting to you not just infrastructure… we are sharing with you the kind of commitment that the Filipino seafarers has to its own profession, in the preservation of an industry and in the propagation and development of a career.

This is where we are today.

C-NERGY as an acronym that stands for Collaboration of Energy as we have described… Each one of organization that had built this facility as forces in an industry, and what we did is to collect all of those, to bring all of us to this day, to this moment.

C-NERGY stands for a phrase to make us one and I am sure as you are sure that we had made an industry as one. The celebrations today is not for us, it’s not for me but it’s for all of you.”

The Future.

The first phase to jumpstart further development of the program is involving seafarers themselves in construction and property development. The initial phase is about US$5.2 million pooled by almost a hundred stakeholders.

Second phase is the convention center and leisure facilities. The main challenge is to bring together like-minded individuals. This next phase is yet unharnessed but shall cater to a wider

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MARITIME IN THE HIGHLANDS

Commitment To World-Class Facilities market base. Financial viability is certain as it service a very dynamic market of seafarers, local and global.

But the mindset is not much on shortterm financial gain but on long- term professional commitment. That is why as early as 2013 short, medium and long term plans have been crafted under extensive business programs.

With the completion of the C-NERGY Center in 2016, the manpower development program is expected to generate US$3.8 million annually over three years.

C-NERGY International will enlarge asset base hence increase its value along with the growth of its net asset value per shares (NAPVS).

Next step for C-NERGY International, Inc. is to bid for public listing in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) by 2022 secured in the niche market of seafarers investing as safety net for personal financial security.

call to prepare business organizations for the 2015 ASEAN integration.

The C-NERGY Center is a very strong asset, the first of its kind and level in the Asia Pacific region. COMPASS, IMOSTI and C-NERGY International jointly offer products and services on world-class platforms.

Common commitment.

The green flag is waved by COMPASS President Dakila Villanueva as he reiterates, “To say that this is a challenge for us is an understatement. Our determination and our resolve were definitely challenged but we never wavered; never that we feel that failure was an option, never.

We owe it as seafarers, we owe it to the next generation of seafarers that we do have.

Global.

The Philippine maritime industry has been in the microscope for maybe so many years now and we feel that our Group… is saying we have to do something about this.

The facility is not only for the local but also for the foreign-based market.

Opportunities shall be continuously explored, as the collaboration opens our door to other nationals within the Asia Pacific region to consider training in the Philippines. This is also a response to the

What you have seen today is a statement being made by the group that we do have. We simply will not lie down and die. We will have to fight this off and we will have to stand our ground and we will tell the whole world that we are here to stay, that is not the C-NERGY but the

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Philippine industry for that matter.

Congratulations to half of our success and I would give emphasis to half of the success because building this is one thing, making full use of this to make a difference is another (thing).

C-NERGY International is determined to utilize this to the fullest. This means IMOSTI and COMPASS will not settle for minimum standards…but will try our best to satisfy the highest standard… (in) training using C-NERGY facilities.

(W)e would not only contribute in uplifting the Filipino offshore and maritime training industry but, more importantly, we will be contributing in enhancing employability of Filipino offshore personnel and seafarers.”

Die is cast.

All told, the Philippines now boasts of training facilities, unique and worldclass. And these are not just rooms and buildings but serviced by equally recognized training outfits, COMPASS and IMOSTI with teaching faculties of outstanding credentials.

And it’s not learning just by the books.

It is also with nature, with serenity that provides focus for the full growth of the potential of trainees and subscribers.

Opinion

MANAGING THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Abstract from a lecture of Capt. Richard Teo, FNI, FCILT, MAICD Contributing Columnist

A very learned paper, it presents unique perspective on Managing the Learning Environment (LE) in Maritime Education and Training (MET).

The author notes the expression “Competency-based learning” and “Competency-based education, training & assessment” (CBL-CBETA) come up in almost every discussion on MET. At the Manning & Training Conference last November, it is under the theme “CrewConnect”. A hot sidebar will be “Managing the Learning Environment” in a competency based learning approach for MET. He writes LE may advance or inhibit the proper delivery of MET; various distractions directly affect the construct and nature of LE and how it operates, sometimes under great duress. Quite often there is blatant disregard for the principles of assessment and the rigour in ensuring that the critical evidence for the performance of the competence or standard has been attained.

LE then misses out on being a place where competences and mastery of performing in the respective functional roles can be demonstrated effectively.

Most important, the standards of the regulatory bodies will also have to be regulated and managed to the best practice and standards. In many jurisdictions, this is the most laggard place.

Key takeaways.

They are almost Greek to the English: traditional and non-traditional learning, on and off-site learning, pedagogy, andragogy, heutagogy, double-loop learning, performance based outcomes, outcomes based delivery, performance based assessments, performance criteria, Blooms taxonomy (revised), paradigm shift, learner centred, self-directed, self-managed, self-efficacy, action reflection learning, action research, collaborative learning, participative enquiry, learning management systems (LMS), eLearning, web- based learning, tin-can-api, moocs, Moodle, flip class-rooms, learning spaces, inclusivity, quality standards, quality management systems, quality assurance, standards

LE is or might be.

MET is an adult learning environment with associated risks that must be managed, given physical and psychosocial aspects that enable learning.

UNESCO suggests learners (children to adults) must feel safe and nurtured.

Researchers suggests LE occurs where technology and culture converge.

Educause and Eduserve also suggest the need to zoom out to LEs where technology enhances learning and spaces provide cross cultural acceptance and synergy.

The University of Idaho says an effective LE has on four dimensions of the environment: •

A Focus on Meaning

•

Support for Each Person- align persons with their talent

•

Structure for Each Person clear performance criteria

•

Collaboration - supporting others

The quality LE is measured on six dimensions: •

Meaning - Do people find meaning in the learning?

•

Learning and Growth - Are people growing in their performances?

•

Support for Each Person - Treated as an individual, receiving feedback?

•

Structure for Each Person - Clear performance criteria?

•

Collaboration Value - People supporting others, assessment adding value?

•

Energy – Maintained from start to end?

The face of learning is changing. There is now a new 70:20:10 model that goes beyond traditional curriculum, outdated syllabus guides, LEs and learning management systems (LMS). This model of learning and

development was initiated by the Centre for Creative Leadership (CCL) through Morgan McCall.

McCall, Lombardo and Eichinger in their 1996 book, The Career Architect Development Partner, surmised lessons learned by effective managers are roughly: •

70 % from tough jobs (experiential)

•

20% from mostly the boss, coach, etc

•

10% from courses and reading (formal learning)

Therefore, the work place is the most valuable LE; yet, not allowed to happen effectively.

Framework for standards.

This is a legal framework that specifies the standards for registration, sustainability, industry SOP with standards of operations, governance, social responsibility, insurance and protection of learners, clients, stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

The ISO 9000 series and other bodies that have adapted to this Quality Management System is not sufficient or suitable for MET in critical areas.

ISO Handbook (HB 90.7-2000 now out of date) is a suitable model for education. IMO needs to produce the requisite model, regulated and audited regularly worldwide. Current IMO auditors for STCW appear to perform audits without complete knowledge, skills and attitudes competency based education (CBETA) or OBE, delivery and assessments.

It is imperative METs have quality standards framework for effective LE management.

The 2015 Australian Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) could be a good model since all METs as LEs vocational education (VET) training & national qualifications have to comply with eight standards to remain in business.

Capt. Teo would gladly respond to further inquiries filed at richsteo@ gmail.com.

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Honors

For Exceptional Bravery At Sea

IMO CITES MAERSK MARINER The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has seen fit to honor a Maersk crewman for exceptional valor and dedication at sea. Able Seaman Vicente Somera is cited, along with the crew of the Lars Maersk, in the 2014 rescue of a yachtsman amid stormy weather.

Wedges himself.

A daring rescue of a stranded yachtsman was celebrated at an event in London when Maersk Line A/B Vicente Somera received a certificate of commendation from IMO, the agency of the United Nations on maritime affairs at its annual Exceptional Bravery at Sea awards.

All the while, wind and water continued to batter the Lars Maersk.

Somera was part of the crew of the Lars Maersk in September, 2014, when the vessel answered the distress call of Stephen Collins, a solo yachtsman sailing from Australia to New Zealand. Stephen had been battling a diesel fuel leak and damages on the sail and boom.

Stephen has tripped several times; falling into the waters, scrambling back for dear life.

Stranded in storm.

Battling gale force wind, the crew of the Lars Maersk fired messenger lines to the yacht. The first failed, the second reached Stephen but failed to hold. In the confusion, the line was pulled back in.

Stephen jumped to retrieve the line, but he missed into the stormy seas. Strong swells made it difficult for the crew to spot him. At one point, they feared he was lost under the vessel.

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Without much concern for his own safety, Somera placed himself between the gangway and the side of the ship, bracing it with his feet to steady. This allowed his crewmates to pull Stephen up.

Sec-Gen Sekimizu with honors for Somera

But the crew refused to give up as Somera insisted, “We always believed that if we kept him in sight, we could rescue him.”

After three hours of maneuvering closer to the yachtsman, and several more firings of the lifeline, Stephen managed, eventually, to grab on to a lifebelt next to the accommodation ladder.

“The waves and the wind meant that the gangway was swaying, and we could not pull him up,” Somera observes. “I was with my colleague who is much larger than I, and I realised that if we both went down the gangway it would be very unsteady. So I told him to wait while I made my way down.

I could see Mr. Collins below me. But the gangway was still hitting the side of the ship.”

Stephen had been in the water for most of the four-hour rescue. He was suffering from hypothermia. Fortunately, the crew were able to give him medical attention. His condition improved enough to allow him to stay onboard as the vessel continued to New Zealand.

Training helps focus.

The Able Seaman was nominated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority for his role in the rescue of Stephen Collins. The first time Somera knew of the commendation was just before he finished his contract, almost a year after the rescue.

Somera recalls, “I missed a call from my crewing manager, so I rang him back and he was asking me if my wife had a passport. I thought this was very strange, as usually crew wives do not join their husbands on vessels. Then he told me I was going to London, to the IMO. I was shocked.”

All Maersk Line seafarers receive regular training on rescuing people in the water.

It was this familiarity that Somera believes helped him and his colleagues save Stephen. He explains, “Every month

we do drills, and we have the tools we need to reach people in the ocean. I wasn’t afraid when we were trying to reach him, and I think that’s because we have training and familiarisation and that helps you focus on what you needed to do.”

rescue of Mr. Collins.”

Rule of the sea.

Aslak Ross, Maersk Head of Marine Standards, was there to see Somera receive his certificate from IMO Sec-Gen Koji Sekimizu.

Ross clarifies, “Able Seaman Somera and the crew of the Lars Maersk were following the rule of the sea when they went to rescue Mr. Collins. When the AMSA nominated Vicente, the Chief Executive said they wanted him to win because while the vessel was obeying the law of the sea, he was not a trained rescuer – he does not work for the Coastguard, but as a regular seafarer.

We are delighted that Vicente Somera and the crew of the Lars Maersk have been recognised by the IMO for their role in the

Magnificent, this Lars Maersk Crew!

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Feature

C/M William Gaspay and Family receiving the prize from ISP Pres Morales and NRCO Dir Mantilla.

Seafarer on Water

SEAWEEDS FARMING BAGS TOP PRIZE Half a million was awarded to C/M William Gaspay, top prize of the First NCRO-ISP Business Plan Competitions.

His seaweeds farming business proposal will be operated from half-hectare waters off Longos, Santa Cruz, Zambales, hometown of his wife.

Gaspay even waxed sentimental, “Kahit nasa lupa na, parte pa rin ako ng dagat” (Even if I am on land, I am still part of the sea).

41 submitted entries, 10 were shortlisted as finalists but two were disqualified.

Thus, only eight were asked to further clarify proposals before a Panel of Judges who decide on the final order of winners.

Gaspay is 58 years, 25 years a merchant mariner, graduated from PMI-Manila, currently a crew at Splash Philippines.

Last November, he passed the licensure exams of MARINA for Chief Mate. A native of Tacloban City, he wishes to help rebuild seaweeds farming there, and in many more coastal areas, destroyed by super typhoon Yolanda.

Awarding was done December 4 at the Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros, Manila, where

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DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz sent a message read by Acting Labor Secretary Ciriaco Lagunzad III.

on-investment (ROI) may be seen.

After the presentation, adjudged winners, besides Gaspay, are:

Seaweeds are used in:

Versatile.

•

Cosmetics (shampoo, facial mask, wax, soap)

Four P50,000@, second to fifth prizes: •

Manuel Bernardo, Quail Farming

•

Supplements, slimming pills

•

John Togonan, Organic Fertilizer

•

Agricultural (world’s #1 organic fertilizer)

•

Chief Mate Edison Batalla, Dragon Fruit Farming

•

Industrial (jet and bio fuel, water filter, air purifier)

•

Mark Antonio Mable, Green Food Aquaphonics

Three P10,000@, consolation prizes: •

Agustin Bedia, Shoes and Sandals Making

•

Jerome Yao, Healthy Crate

•

Jaime Forlales, Jr., Sinangagan

Seaweeds mature in 45 days for the harvest. As early as today, 100% are assured of buyers owing to a worldwide supply shortage. In six months, return-

When processed as carrageenan, it is used in pet food, beer, ice cream, toothpaste, air freshener gels and pharmaceuticals.

The Philippines used to be the top global supplier but a declined started in 1997.

The future is optimistic for seaweeds, assures DA-BFAR and the Council for Agriculture and Aquatic Resources and Development.

On top of the business value, seaweeds farming helps preserve coral reefs, increase algae components, habitat for

seafarers are on active duty; to provide ways for easier social reintegration on the seafarers return.

small fish and breeding place, purify carbon content of the ocean and balance sea nutrients Sponsors.

ISP President Gaudencio Morales picked the tab on the grand prize of P500,000, with P50,000 first trance to pay for project documentation and business papers and permits.

Next is P300,000 for start-up and the balance during actual operations.

Bernardo Family, First Runner-up

Capt. Morales advises to follow the business plan, more so the timelines, as mentors are always available to guide and coach. By next December, the seaweeds project will be the showcase in the next business plan competitions.

What were proposed should happen, ideally with added improvements validated by an on-site ocular inspection.

Aside from ISP, the other sponsors are the Associated Marine Officers and Seamen’s Union of the Phil, Joint

Manning Group, New Simulator Center of the Phil, Cebu Gems Innovation and Career Development Center and Integrated Maritime Practical Assessment Center and Technical Solutions.

At tandem is the ISP MultiPurpose Cooperative open to seafarers and families to earn dividends, take cash advances and business loans.

The coop also sponsors free monthly seminars on various topics of importance to members.

ISP.

ISP broadcasts Gabay ng Pamilyang Marino, over DZIQ 990AM, 4:40 pm to 6:00 pm, Sundays. With livestreaming at www.ustream.tv/channel/DZIQ. Various segments are anchored by known experts in their professions.

Integrated Seafarers of the Philippines is a non-stock, non-profit organization for the welfare of Filipino seafarers and their families. Its primary goal is to create avenues where the families can improve on their lives while the

Offices are located at the 2nd floor, Jemarson building, 1618 Pilar Hidalgo Lim St., Malate, Manila; landline telephones at 400-5981 or 400-5987; contact isphilippines@yahoo.com; http://isp.org.ph.

Finalists, proponents and supporters (ISP, DOLE, JMG, AMOSUP, Judges)

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HIGH RISK SAR BY ASHLEY LADY IN ASIAN WATERS At own risk.

Master of Ashley Lady alerted other vessels for the search and rescue (SAR) operations as she rushed and reached the distress location in two hours. No lifeboats in sight, some liferafts were seen but found empty.

Meantime, MRCC dispatched a spotter aircraft to aid the SAR operations. Some survivors were finally sighted; few in lifejackets, some just floating using logs or other flotsam. Rescue boats may pick the survivors but inclement weather prohibited any launch from the Ashley Lady.

SAR Beyond the odds

W

hile plying around 150 NM west of the Philippine coast, near Vigan City, M/T/ Ashley Lady received a distress alert transmitted

by MRCC Hong Kong. It was 27 November, 1100 hours, local time.

Distress was pinpointed at 22 NM South South East (SSE) of the vessel loaded with naptha from Ruwais to Tokuyama.

Weather threatens Ashley Lady herself, severe with gale force wind at 8 on the Beaufort force scale. Heavy swell was roaring at about five meters high.

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But a time-honored practice at sea demands that a fellow mariner must help, regardless.

Upholding the noble tradition, Master immediately decided to extend assistance in search and rescue operations. It advised MRCC Hong Kong Ashley Lady is diverted to help; in turn, informed distress signal was from the Panama flagged M.V. Fortune Life, built 1991 DWT 8037 MT. EPIRB transmitted the emergency call and it was believed that the cargo ship has foundered.

But with great determination and skill, Master maneuvered the fully-loaded Aframax tanker (DWT 113000 MT) close to the survivors. The objective was to bring the victims within reach of crew standing by on deck to throw lifebuoy to the persons in water.

For about six hours, crew braved the odds and worked on sharp roll and pitch of the vessel. With great improvisation, SAR efforts continued. Unfortunately, some in the water did not respond, presumably too weak or unconscious.

Eventually, five crew members of “Fortune Life� were rescued and brought on deck. They were given dry clothes and administered first aid as needed.

Feature

Ashley Lady Crew: Did your best

By the time five were rescued, night has fallen. MRCC decided to release Ashley Lady from SAR duties as further search was impeded by darkness and bad weather. Thus, the vessel resumed passage towards Tokuyama.

But in barely an hour, the lookout on Ashley Lady reported seeing lights on the water. On closer approach, the lights are from a group of survivors huddled together. MRCC was promptly informed as Master conducted another rescue operations.

Darkness limited visibility, yet the crew was able to save one fellow mariner.

Sadly for the others, the lookouts eventually lost sight of them. They did not respond, either they were too weak or unconscious.

However, Master and crew did not give up. Under directions from MRCC Hong Kong, Ashley Lady continued the search operation throughout the night. The owners of Ashley Lady were informed and they whole-heartedly supported the arduous and extended SAR operations.

Best of the situation.

28 Nov morning did not bring any good news, weather remained same.

Along with other vessels, Ashley Lady continued the search until darkness but without success. Earlier in the afternoon, Chinese coast guard rescue vessels arrived to continue the search supported by an aircraft coming also the area.

Japan, to be transferred to the Chinese Consulate there. One is on Nord Delphinus (9V8401) bound for Headland, Australia and the other, on Tal Tal (J8B5367) for Tauranga, New Zealand.

There was an attempt to transfer the rescued personnel to Chinese coast guard ship. But the Master declined for the safety of the survivors in view of the weather condition. By evening, MRCC Hong Kong released Ashley Lady from SAR operation and instructed to proceed with the six survivors to the next scheduled port.

Internal affairs.

Minor injuries were suffered by all survivors but one was unable to walk and injuries looked serious. Medical assistance was sought from CIRM Roma.

The crew gave them food, clothes and medicine; more importantly, caring words to recover faster from the trauma quicker. Six rescued seamen were disembarked under care of Chinese consulate at Tokuyama.

Chakraborty is Safety and Quality Assurance Manager at WS-Singapore.

Tjagnirjadko is Master of MT Ashley Lady. The rescue saga will be published at WS quarterly newsletter for distribution fleetwide.

The six survivors on Ashley Lady (9V8540) is going to Tokuyama,

Of the 19 crew, eight were rescued and 11 are still missing.

Capt. Niladri Chakraborty sent Capt.

Igors Tjagnirjadko a touching email, part of which reads, “(Y)ou all displayed tremendous courage and seamanship as well as maintained the honourable tradition of extending help to fellow seamen in distress.�

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Health

TRAUMA TREATMENT FOR SEAFARERS Seafaring clearly carries potential risks, not least from the very real threat of piracy but also the isolation from family and friends while deployed for extended periods.

rather than immediate counselling. Colleagues of trauma-exposed individuals can support them while watchfully waiting if they do require professional assistance.

Professor Neil Greenberg is an expert on the concern, noting the growing threat to the person, the family and even industry itself.

Greenberg recommends implementing robust organisational policy, trauma training for leaders, formalised peer support training such as Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) and psychological monitoring.

He is Professor of Psychiatry at King’s College-London, Clinical Director of psychological resilience consultancy March on Stress, president of UK Psychological Trauma Society.

He has published more than 185 scientific papers on trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mental health.

Greenberg observes, “Most people who have been exposed to traumatic incidents cope well in the longer term, but many will experience short-term distress and a minority will develop persistent mental health conditions such as PTSD. “For instance, up to 20% of war correspondents and firefighters, 10% of police officers, and up to 33% of military personnel in the U.S. have been found to suffer from PTSD.” Greenberg warns studies have found that up to a third of survivors of fatal accidents at sea may suffer from PTSD; high rates of mental ill health in the survivors of piracy and their families.

Yet, around 70% of PTSD sufferers do not seek help “…probably because they either do not recognise that their difficulties are a result of a mental health problem or because they fear what other people will think of them if they do ask for help” explains the professor.

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Greenberg: Contract may be terminated

He adds, “(S)eafarers who work on contract, rather than as employees, may fear that if they reveal any psychological difficulties their contract may be terminated.”

PTSD not only causes those affected, as well as their family and work colleagues, to experience a poor quality of life, it is also associated with significant functional impairment. Therefore, untreated cases within a maritime organisation may substantially increase the risk of accidents.”

March on Stress is currently working with Human Rights at Sea on a guidance document that will outline evidencebased approaches in minimising risk of seafarers developing PTSD, including preparatory training for individuals and managers.

It will also provide information for individuals, colleagues and families after an incident, encouraging seafarers exposed to initially access social support

All of these things contribute to improved resilience through early signposting for support and in reducing the stigma associated with mental health and help seeking.

March on Stress.

A psychological health consultancy outfit, driven by a belief that anyone in psychological distress, whether by exposure to trauma or the consequence of day-to-day occupational stress, deserves access to the right evidence-based support and care in their workplace.

It helps to build resilience by safeguarding the psychological wellbeing of personnel through the prevention, detection and treatment of occupational and operational stress, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Human Rights at Sea. Human Rights at Sea is a charitable foundation organized and registered in England. It aims to raise awareness, implementation and accountability of human rights on the maritime environment, especially where absent, ignored or abused.

HONORS

SEATRADE ASIA HONORS BORROMEO

industry. All were chosen by an independent panel of judges for outstanding performance and achievements despite keen competition and operating conditions, exhibiting strong resilience characteristic of the maritime industry.

PTC Group CEO, Gerardo A. Borromeo, was honored with the Seatrade Personality of the Year award at the 8th Seatrade Maritime Awards Asia. This was during a gala dinner at the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre, as part of the Hong Kong Logistics and Maritime Weeks, November 16, 2015.

The award “recognizes the excellent job that Mr. Borromeo has done traversing the industry both in the Philippines as the CEO of Philippine Transmarine Carriers, as well as, his work internationally with the International Chamber of Shipping.

It also acknowledges the tireless work undertaken engaging with stakeholders, the industry at large and the media, for the improvement of the shipping industry and in particular, the crew who serve it.”

Mr. Borromeo is the first Filipino to have been given this special recognition.

Seatrade is one of the world’s largest and most respected maritime media and research organizations. Based in the United Kingdom with offices worldwide, Seatrade has closely covered global shipping since 1970. It has awarded maritime companies, organizations and individuals with meaningful contributions to the industry’s advancement and sustainability.

There were 12 winners selected from 54 finalists in the competitive categories; four special awards to individuals for exemplary work and contributions to the shipping

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Training

Ms. Merle, Judge Ampuan and Commo. Jimenez

Training Pool and New Offices

MPTC INAUGURATES FACILITIES The Mariners’ Polytechnic Training Center (MPTC) launched twin buildups to solidify lead in maritime training excellence.

Last November 10th were the blessings and inaugurations of two brand-new facilities: •

The Training Pool for survival exercises in its practicum site at Lido Beach Resort, Noveleta, Cavite.

•

New offices at the sixth floor, Marc 1 building, 1971 Taft Avenue, Malate, Manila (near the LRTQuirino station) for theoretical courses.

•

Personal Survival Techniques

•

Elementary First Aid

•

Personal Safety and Social Responsibility

•

Medical Emergency First Aid

•

Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat

•

Advanced Training in Fire Fighting

•

Consolidated MARPOL

Safety training programs are also offered at sites in the Bicol region; like cadets of Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) are trained at Mariners’ Training Institute (MTI).

The double inaugurations were led by MPTC Pres. Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, MPCF-Legazpi Dante La Jimenez, and MPCF-Canaman Chairman/CEO Marilissa Jimenez-Ampuan.

Mariners’ Polytechnic Training Center

MPTC is an acknowledged leading provider of these Courses: •

Basic Training

•

Fire Prevention/Fire Fighting

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353-5683; Telefax 310-1573 Message Center No. Globe: 0917-9544330 Email:mptc1983@marinerstraining.com.ph Website: www.marinerstraining.com.ph . New survival training pool

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These are in Baras, Canaman and Rawis, both in Camarines Sur, where Basic Safety, Engine and Navigational Watchkeeping courses are conducted.

Certified.

The Quality Management System of MPTC was certified by SGS (Societe Generale De Surveillance) under ISO 9001:2008 having passed international standards.

MPTC (a.k.a. Commo. Jaime C. Jimenez, Foundation) is registered with Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 27, 1983. It is accredited by Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for upgrading training courses referred under STCW Programs and local training requirements.

MPTC is the first training center to subscribe with Doxcheck, a digital security protocol for 100% counterfeitfree documents management and verification system.

Officers and staff

Faking docs.

Fraudulent training certificates of seafarers is on an up- swing. Recently, the Metropolitan Trial Court of Manila issued a warrant of arrest for Josh B. Diolata on order by Judge Karen MattiSy of Branch 20.

The MPTC president warns that by 2017, mandatory retraining for seafarers is required due to provisions of the STCW Convention, Manila Amendments, coming into force. If authorities and seafarers do not act, many more will be victimized by faked documents of qualifications.

Diolata with six individuals were subjects of the complaint filed by MPTC for falsification of its training certificates in Basic Training issued the years 2012 and 2013.

“The equation is simple – more training requirements means more business for these unscrupulous individuals who prey on seafarers’ vulnerability...” stresses Ms. San Pedro.

PAMTCI UPGRADE MARINA Administrator Max Mejia, Jr., was the principal guest at the blessings December 8th of the new office of the Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) at Unit 5C1, fifth floor of the Marc 2000 Tower on Taft avenue corner San Andres street, Malate, Manila.

The religious ritual was followed

by Phil-MET Council (composed of PAMTCI and PAMI-Association of Maritime Institutions) year-end get together and Christmas Party at Century Park Hotel, Pasay City.

Therein, Capt. Arsenio Padilla of Excellence and Competency Training Center (EXACT) takes over C/E Alfredo Haboc as PAMTCI president owing

to the latter’s recent appointment as MARINA Deputy Administrator for Regional Concerns.

PAMTCI is a major industry organization composed of more than 40 training centers. It may be reached at its new location with Landline (02)5222039, email at secretariat.1993@gmail. com.

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Union

Guinness Record: human ship-wheel

At 55th Anniversary Special

AMOSUP BAGS GUINNESS RECORD Fitting honors was gained by the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union (AMOSUP) on its 55th Anniversary celebrations: a Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s biggest “human-ship wheel formation.”

highlight of the festivity carrying the theme, “Pilipinong Mandaragat, Patuloy na Aangat!” (Filipino Seafarers, Continue the Progress!)

The living wheel was formed by 2,276 seafarers and maritime students at 3:00 p.m., November 11th at the SM Mall of Asia open grounds, Manila.

Even the Sec-Gen of the Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Steve Cotton, was excitedly bellowing on stage, “Filipino seafarers, you are the largest group in the world. Filipino seafarers, you are the best in the world!”

The award-winning project is the

AMOSUP President Conrado Oca

Oca, Cotton and Santos at Anniversary

proudly announced the continuous growth of the number of Filipino seafarers; a positive development for the increasing popularity of their expertise and competency in maritime duties.

The benevolent Dr. Oca did not miss to mention the sacrifices of seafarers just to provide well for their families, ensuring a better future for their loved ones.

There are about 400,000 Filipino seafarers on the world’s merchant ships.

Of these, over 100,000 are members of AMOSUP – the biggest union of marine officers and ratings in the whole world.

The great union was founded by the late Capt. Gregorio Sta. Cruz Oca, also acknowledged as “Father of Filipino seafarers.” The incumbent president is a son, in turn a worthy torchbearer of a great tradition.

In the evening, a star-studded musical concert followed at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Featured were named Pinoy entertainers, with a host of premium prizes raffled for free to the animated, boisterous audience.

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For Big-data, High-traffic Tenant

PRONOVE TAI OFFERS IDEAL HUB To attract potential seafarers, recruitment and skills training centers need to establish more presence in regions unserved by HEIs (universities and colleges).

As it is, 74 of 120 training centers nationwide are in Metro Manila, mostly lumped in Ermita and Malate districts.

Trainees will welcome the reduced costs of Manila transit and board/lodging thereat.

Requirements like tests and health clearances can be easily managed and processed when a trainee no longer shuttles home and back to fetch additional documents.

Build-to-suit for quality outcome.

Our national maritime industry are still navigating the murky waters of quality education and training. Integrated simulationbased learning and hands-on training in navigation and steering, safety, housekeeping, guest relations, galley / kitchen operations offer much hope. But these require adequate space for the right equipment, technology and team sessions.

Information Technology (IT) Parks and BPO centers are well suited for the recruitment and training needs of the big data, high-traffic tenant. The new buildings have the infrastructure and the network architecture to support these types of training centers.

They can be built-to-suit or customized with added ventilation, cooling and heating, as well as overhead distribution systems for workspaces such as kitchens and engines rooms.

Floor plates are bigger to make planning and staggered expansions easier especially dedicated areas for full simulation, bigger classrooms,

meeting areas and conference centers.

These types of properties can also accommodate temporary living quarters or hostels for visitors and crew. And these state-ofthe-art facilities are already built in Metro Manila, Clark, Subic, Santa Rosa, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod and Davao.

They have mixed-use developments such as business and residential parks in close proximity to international airports and large seaports; hospitals, medical clinics, recreational facilities and commercial establishments.

Monique Cornelio-Pronove shares an insight, “Establish your presence in new areas as these to help attract potential seafarers and build the image of the shipping company as a world-class employer. New environments that offer dynamic lifestyles and opportunities are what young Filipinos of calibre look for.”

Working with a tenant representative.

Greetings “Congratulations, Marino World!”

Hon. Carlo Alexei Nograles Chairman, Committee on Labor & Employment Lower House, Philippine Congress

“You are the one publication in the Philippines consistently which stands out in quality of articles and quality of production, you are to be congratulated on that. I look forward to the next 10 years and beyond.”

Gerry Buchanan Managing Director Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry

“Marino World has become the opinion leader of maritime industry for the last ten years not only in the Philippines but also in Asia… I am sure Marino World will contribute to the growth of maritime industry to lead right direction with constructive opinions.”

Capt. Naoki Saito Manager, Certification Service Planning, ClassNK

“It’s always a pleasure for me to read your magazine and learn on a regular basis the latest development in the maritime and port sector of the Philippines… All the best in continuing to provide us with relevant and updated information.”

Mark Assaf Chief of the Human Resources Development Section United Nations UNCTAD

Pronove Tai has had broad experience of working with multi-national and local firms on different property challenges.

As an international property consultant specializing in tenant representation, it searches for clients opportunities in leasing, sales, build-to-suits, finding the best fit /property and negotiating with the landlord.

“I feel proud of my association with “Marino World”. It is my small and humble effort to pass on knowledge and experience from older generation to younger generation… I wish “Marino World” many more years of successful publication.”

Pronove Tai also provides impartial advice and ensures that the best value is achieved from competing offers. This expertise is really felt when Pronove Tai expands on its depth in setting up a new training centerin Metro Manila or major regional hubs in the Philippines.

Ten years is a long time - especially in today’s ever changing world of media and communications ... I am proud to be a contributor to Marino World, which sets a very high standard for industry publications.

Capt. Fazlur R Chowdhury Maritime Consultant, U.K. International Contributor

Mark Millar Consultant, Hong Kong International Contributor

Ship Registry

PANAMA CELEBRATES REPUBLIC DAY Ambassador and Consul General H. E. Rolando Guevara Alvarado relives with both nostalgia and pride the historic days of November of his country, the Republic of Panama.

November 3rd marks her separation from Columbia and the 4th is designated Flag Day. The First Cry of Independence bellowed on the 10th at La Villa de Los Santos and political independence from Spain was gained November 28th.

Celebrations here last November 3rd were aptly at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel, itself replete with historical events and attended by public officials, senior diplomats and business executives of the maritime sector.

The audio visual presentation on Panama took a maritime perspective, given her prominence in global merchant marine industry.

The cultural show featured a couple doing the El Punto, more folkloric dances and carnival presentations. Banda Latina perked the night with live Latin beats, resting only for raffle draws on a trip to Panama, among other prizes.

The national colors of red, blue and white is adopted to her Flag, given the classical and heraldic meanings of the hues. During November, the whole of Panama dresses herself in these colors.

In 1973, Panama established diplomatic relations with the Philippines. This started the political ties between the two republics, increased economic

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exchanges, true commitment to cooperation as the two share common historical bonds based on democratic values.

The relations are best seen in the shipping industry; Panama providing best Flag service in vessels registration while the Philippines is entrenched as the Manning Capital of the world.

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