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VOLUME XIV NO. 1 • ISSN 1908-0972
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JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019
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Cover Story
Go, Sail! M/V KAPITAN GREGORIO OCA Manning MAN OVERBOARD TRENDING
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Education CATALYST FOR CHANGE Shipbuilding HANJIN: BOON OR BANE? Shipping MORE RORO ROUTES
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Content
ABOUT THE COVER Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong
Philippine maritime has produced an outstanding officer, the late Merchant Marine Capt. Gregorio Sta. Cruz Oca. On top of a great career, he pursued, organized and implemented projects for needs of blue water seafarers in job facilities,
work rights and career development. His equally-committed familyand peers carried on the vision --- the M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca, another milestone in cadet training and international cooperation.
EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher
Lyn Bacani
Editorial Consultant
Creative Director
B. Cortes Lagac
Jhon Henson Ong
Legal Counsel
Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.
Eva Tan
News and Feature Writers Coca H. Strobar
Ligaya Caban
Contributors Ms. Merle San Pedro
RAdm. Adonis Donato
Atty. Cristina Beltran
International Contributors
F R Chowdhury
Mark Millar
Richard Teo
Correspondents Onin Miranda
Gel Miranda
Boy Ilano
Photographers Joana Marie Tud
Royette de Paz
Jerome Reyes
EDITORIAL OFFICE Tel. / Fax (632) 521-3633 Mobile (63) 906-491-2777
1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines marinoworldpublication@gmail.com
Published by Bacani & Associates Media Services Co. (BASMS) www.marino-world.com
Publisher Note
shipbuilding is nation building The Hanjin fiasco at Zambales has released pent-up emotion against the penchant of looking up to foreigners to solve our problem and/or our development. Take a second look, says Vice Admiral Narciso Vingson, Jr. but in controlled phrases owing to holding a post in a temporary capacity, perhaps. Society of Naval Architects Chairman Sammuel Lim augers “It is now time to build locally using our own resources as we continue to build our capacity for technology and experience.” He calls not only at merchant owners and operators but also at government ship operators as the Navy, Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. But he observes while Filipino-owned shipyards have previously undertaken some building projects, major operators prefer to buy overseas second hand ships such as from Japan to the detriment of Filipino shipbuilders. The Duke University Center on Globalization, Governance and Competitiveness (Duke CGGC) prepared a research for USAID/Philippines, through the Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (STRIDE) Program. The study is part of our Trade and Industry (DTI) Board of Investment (BOI) initiative for the revitalization of the manufacturing industry.
the shipbuilding global value chain (GVC) as it has both demand for (smaller) vessels in the domestic market and exporter of large, commercial ships.
opportunities to upgrade in shipbuilding GVC via multiple pathways as: (1) FDIled development to grow export-oriented, large commercial shipbuilding;
In 2015, export shipbuilding accounted for 2.6%, at value of US$1.5 billion; shipbuilding and repair was at $1.6 billion in the same year; placing us fourth in the world (on gross tonnage (GT) since 2010, for 2.8% of GT completions and 1.3% of ship exports.
(2) FDI or JV-driven in the global market post-production services; (3) Filipinoowned firmsfill domestic needs, like the GVC for smaller vessel types.
The industry employs 48,000 workers but concentrated in the greater Manila and Cebu; backward linkages to materials and equipment are nascent as nearly all inputs are imported directly or via distributors. A key advantage is abundant workforce which is cost competitiveand hardworking. But top workers often go to shipyards in the Middle East or Singapore to earn higher wages. Graduates of education and training programs for welders, the primary occupation in shipbuilding, often do not meet international standards.
Keypoints
Investment in new shipyards has been stagnant over the last decade (mid-2000s), but exhibits a low exit rate and the Philippines “… is in a good position to expand global market share in the exportoriented segment by increasing global awareness and proactively targeting new foreign-owned shipbuilders and suppliers seeking more cost-effective locations.”
The Philippines is in a unique position in
The study points out we have
Today, commercial shipbuilding – the construction of seaborne vessels with the primary purpose of moving large quantities of goods, commodities, or people – is controlled by these three East Asian countries (China, South Korea, Japan) each completing about a third of the global commercial shipbuilding market, for a combined 90% based on gross tons. Last year, the MARINA strengthens collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for JICA technical assistance and expertise in making the local shipbuilding and shiprepair industry globally competitive and technologically responsive. Alas, this may well be back to dependence on foreign intervention. But as the saying goes, beggars can’t be choosers. Maybe the saving grace is that we are taking a path well-chosen because shipbuilding is nationbuilding, migrating to so many industries, expanding to so many sectors --- reliving the promise, relieving the dead weights.
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education
Dedicated to shipboard training
Go, Sail!
M/V KAPITAN GREGORIO OCA by Coca H. Strobar
Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) has completed acceptance of the M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca, highlighting the cooperative effort of four industry groups. The final phase was the commissioning at Pier 13 of the Manila South Harbor. MAAP Pres. Eduardo Ma. R. Santos accepted the vessel from the Intl Mariners Management Association of Japan (IMMAJ), Phil-Japan Manning Consultative Council (PJMCC), All-Japan Seamen’s Union (AJSU) and the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Phils (AMOSUP). Vice Admiral Santos (AFP-Ret), in his welcome remarks, recalled key ceremonies: August 8th, christened by Ms. Marissa Oca August 9th, launched by Ms. Yvette Oca from Miho shipyard December 25th, turnover to the four groups led by IMMAJ after the vessel passed construction review and sea trials January 17, 2019, vessel formal turnover to MAAP January 31st, commissioning of the dedicated training ship
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Impact. Santos claims a “historic footnote” in that the project is the “… legacy of our visionary chairman and founder, Capt. Gregorio Sta. Cruz Oca, (who) will forever be immortalized in this ship whose name she bears.” Commissioning is a cherished maritime tradition, meaning placing the ship in active service for the owner, ready to commence operations. Earlier ceremonies are keel laying, christening, launching, culminating in commissioning which welcomes the ship into the fleet. Three years back, Santos says IMMAJ, AJSU, AMOSUP and PJMCC decided to enhance the shipboard competence of the cadets by donating a new training ship to MAAP. This is the M/V KGO which can berth 108 cadets, a crew of 24 with six onboard instructors, a ratio of 18-1 student-to-instructor to be amended as ship’s officers with, at least, a year teaching experience will instruct onboard. Utility. Santos underscores the crew “… will conduct the training, the mentoring and the monitoring of all the activities of the cadets. This ship shall, therefore, serve as the floating laboratory of our students.
We hope that we will achieve the noble purpose of this ship for which it was built and donated and that is to maintain and surpass the standards of development and capability of Filipino seafarers.” The MAAP president emphasized the importance of experiential learning, quoting Chinese philosopher Confucius, “I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I learn.” Learning by doing maximizes understanding in concrete and measurable ways. Hands-on. Santos believes, “The learning environment in both M/V Kapitan Felix Oca and M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca are the best complementary learning platform from our students and our mentors alike. We’re confident by exposing our students to more hours, of rigorous and structured shipboard training, we upgrade and raise the standards of their seamanship, their navigational and their engineering skills and competence.” M/V KFO is the first vessel of MAAP, named after Capt. Gregorio’s father. Specs. The training vessel is for use of IMMAJ cadets, future seafarers for this organization composed of 94 Japanese crewing agencies, ship managers, and shipowners supporting non-Japanese
seafarers on about 2,200 Japanese oceangoing merchant fleet with 46,000 hands, 75% of whom are Filipino nationals. M/V KGO is 70 million type training vessel owned by MAAP, sold by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, built by Miho Shipyard. Keel laying was completed April 10, 2018 for these Principal Particulars: Length over all, 78.60m; Length between P.P., 70.00m; Breadth molded, 12.00m; Depth molded, 5.55m/ 8.05m; Draft molded, 4.99m; Gross tonnage, 2.098tons; Sea speed, 13.8 knots (output: 85% MCR, Sea margin: 0%); Complement, 138P (Crew: 24P, Trainer: 6P, Cadet: 108P) The main engine is from Daihatsu Diesel Manufacturing (6DKM-26eL (1.471kW); so with a set of auxiliary engine (6DE-18 (530kW); two sets radio equipment from Furuno Electric; Design, Bulbous bow, Double continuous deck. Select audience. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograleswas the guest of honor joined by industry luminaries as Dr. Conrad Oca and family, Col. Robby Oca of the South Harbor, IMO Ambassador Carlos Salinas, officers of IMMAJ, AJSU, PJMCC. Senior government officials attended: SAP Jesus Melchor Quitain, PN Vice Admiral Robert, PCG Commandant Elson Hermogino, POEA Deputy Administrator Jocelyn Sanchez, Naval Reserve Commander General Hidalgo, MARINA OIC Vice Admiral NarcisoVingson, Jr., DOLE U/Secs Maglunsod and Renato Evare, former Labor Secretaries Marianito Roque and Bienvenido Laguesma. Majors from the private sector are Magsaysay CEO Doris Magsaysay-Ho, Intl Maritime Employers Council Chair Rajesh Tandon and representatives from the Joint Manning Group. Intl Transport Workers Federation, Japan Intl Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan, Danish Shipowners Association.
Formalities. Shipboard Training Director Cleto del Rosario read the commission order of M/V KGO and designation of officers and crew under MAAP Special Order No. 006 which is: In line with IMMAJ, AJSU, PJMCC and AMOSUP agreement In pursuant of IMO A1047 (27) and In accordance MARINA Memo Circular 148. VAdmiral Santos named Capt. Remeo B. Napinas and nine others, C/E Julieto S. Labisores and six others, with Napinas reporting “… the ship’s officers and crew are present, ready to man the ship, set the first watch, man the rails.”
world seafarers are from the Philippines. He even claims a European shipping company, “has been hiring all Filipino crews for its tanker fleets since 2004” and Filipinos are the most sought after seafarers in the global shipping industry. “Filipinos are the first choice to manage ships at sea from luxury to giant tankers. Because of the sheer number of Filipino seafarers working abroad, it is not surprising that out of every US$100 in personal cash remittances that the country receives, US$20 comes from overseas Filipinos. Bangko Central ngPilipinas says Filipino sailors sent home US$1.9 billion from January to April 2018 alone.”
To which Santos barked the order: “Capt. Napinas, man the ship, start your engines, raise the Philippine flag, set the first watch!” And the Navy band blared, playing the jolly Leron Leron Sinta. Inspirational remarks followed, thenguests toured the ship, enjoyed cocktails. Nograles. Sec. Nograles proclaimed “We all stand to benefit from the commissioning of one of the country’s largest training ships – the M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca…..a truly remarkable vessel befitting a sector that has been helping our country grow and flourish for decades. It is common knowledge in government that the maritime sector and beyond our shores, the Filipino seafarers are world-class.” Nograles quoted POEA data showing 378,072 Filipino seafarers were deployed overseas, meaning close or third of the
IMMAJ Akamine
Nograles sees M/V KGO as “not just a modern training ship, it is a symbol of MAAP’s commitment to pursue the highest level of excellence in maritime training and education. It also represents our government’s resolve to promote the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the maritime industry. In the end, it is the Filipino seafarer who shall benefit from our investments in shipping technologies and infrastructures. Equipped and empowered, our sailors can venture further out into the world’s vast seas, conquer new territories and continue to excel among seafarers of the world as
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are purely coincidence.” Dr. Oca then shifted to a serious mien in that “We always believe in the potential, perseverance and passion of aspiring Filipino seafarers but we also believe… to bring out the best in them, it takes comprehensive training coupled with discipline and hardwork. Cabinet Sec Nograles receives token from AMOSUP and MAAP Filipino champions of the oceans.” Morita. AJSU Pres.Yasumi Morita says the “ training ship project has been accomplished by cooperation of the four parties – the labor and the management, the vessel ownership country and the labor and the management of seafarer supply country in the international labor management relations. Morita recalls Capt Oca joined the Intl Transport Workers Federation (ITF) in 1972 after establishing AMOSUP in 1960 and made great effort to improve the life of Filipino seafarers. “This project is in line with ITF policy and we will continue “…the alliance between the vessel ownership countries and seafarer supply countries and ITF.” He expects such will be followed and be a model of the relations between Japan and the Philippines. Manese. PJMCC Chairman Eduardo Manese opened to an applause when he confided, “ my medical supervisor said I should not leave the house but I cannot miss this occasion… You know this commissioning ceremony is like a dream” come true. Manese revisits those days he and Capt. Oca searched for a training ship, flew to Uraga, Japan and readily took the M/V Seiun I Maru from a broker. But this (referring to M/V KGO) “new modern one really was the very big help for us. To us in the industry we can assure you that our job is we all send qualified and
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competent crew and we will do our best to do that.” Akamine. IMMAJ Chairman Koichi Akamine is “truly proud of this ship - the ultimate display of the long time commitment, cooperation and partnership of shipping industry in the Philippines and Japan. Our discussion about a new training ship started in 2014 as we desire to further support the education of our Filipino cadets in MAAP and the aspiration to become world class maritime officers in the Japanese managed fleet. We are truly grateful for the commitment and hardwork of the Filipino seafarers.” Japan depends on trade for its economy and people’s lives. Over 99% of her trade is transported by ship; hence, safe navigation is crucial to sustaining the Japanese economy. About 150 cadets and 600 are studying in IMMAJ. Senior cadets start this April on the training ship, hopefully contribute greatly to safe navigation of the Japanese merchant fleet.
We are one with many on our commitment to provide excellent maritime education to our students by equipping them with knowledge, technical skills and the necessary tools and opportunities to better hone their capabilities.” He is thankful for the confidence of their partners which made M/V KGO a reality after a long and tedious process from the drawing board to the construction. “For over 20 years our first ship, the Kapitan Felix Oca has been instrumental in producing thousands of well-equipped and competent Filipino seafarers who are now making waves in the maritime industry and now we are about to witness the M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca contribute to our mission to produce globally-competitive Filipino seafarers” Deeply emotional, Dr. Oca intoned “The M/V Kapitan Gregorio Oca will become an avenue for learning, experience and advancement among our young, aspiring seafarers before they set out, sail forward and take on the world.
Dr. Oca. AMOSUP Pres.Oca cracked the audience with his intro: “Those names of both training ships and my last name
PJMCC Manese and AJSU Morita
PAMTCI LEADERSHIP MARINA OIC NarcisoVingson, Jr. inducts executive officers and trustees of the Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) at the Casino Espanol de Manila, February 8th. The roster is composed of: Pres., Ms. Maria Katherine Pauline R. Avelino (PHILCAMSAT); EVP, Capt. Diofonce F. Tuñacao (MAAP); VP-Luzon, Ms.
Merle J. San Pedro (MPTC); VPVisayas, C/E Antonino R. Gascon, Jr. (Protect); VP-Mindanao, Capt. Ramil J. Limocon (NewSim); Secretary, Capt. Arsenio C. Padilla, Jr.(EXACT); Treasurer, Dr. Glenn Mark J. Blasquez (SIMS); Auditor, Capt. Nebuchadnezzar C. Rabaya (NTC-M) and DirectorTraining, Capt. Eliseo Z. Clemente, Jr. (NYK-Fil).
The newly-elected Trustees shall serve from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020. Over lunch, PAMTCI officers discussed with Vingson and his three staff concerns of seafarers, mostly on training and clarifying MARINA circulars, policies and advisories.
MARINA EXAMINERS FOR CMP The new Panel of Examiners for Certificate of Marine Profession (CMP) was recently inducted by Mr. Arsenio Lingad, OIC Deputy Admin for Planning, at the MARINA lounge. The panel shall check qualifications of officers for domestic vessels of 35 to 500 gross tonnage. Inducted for The Engine: C/E Gilbert B. Milana, C/E Galicano
T. Bacay, C/E Lowel Aleganza, C/E Audie M. Macatol and 2/E Nichel Cabañing. Also sworn-in for The Deck: Capt. Liberato P. Ambon, Capt. Gerry Erjambre, Capt. James F. Serdoncilo, Capt. Peregrino L. Reponte Jr., Capt. Nilo B. Lobrigo, Capt. Rodel V. Manguba and C/M Marvina T. Bernales. MARINO WORLD
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FEATURE
Proud of GTBH services for his advocacy
C/E Galicano Bacay
SERVICE IS THE BUSINESS GTBH Enterprises undertakes the complete process on waste management, from collection to transport, treatment and disposal of waste plus monitoring and regulation. C/E Bacay established the firm in 2016, accredited by the Dept of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as a Treatment, Storage and Disposal (TSD) facility on a 1,108 sqr-mtr lot at Del Mundo street, Ugong, Valenzuela City, complete with a Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) through DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and compliant with all other legal requirements. He holds steady despite the ups-anddowns, given that his business is important to the environment while giving work to people in the spirit of partnership. The project was conceptualized with C/E Gilbert Milana, also with expertise and experience on issues and concerns of nature. The partners are seasoned merchant mariners, exposed to the import and degradation of the environment, astute on demands of international Conventions, of laws and priorities of State Administrations around the world.
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Expertise. C/E Bacay is well experience on chemical/log carriers, world-wide crude product carriers in 17 years at sea mostly in Europe, Mediterranean and Africa. He is specialized in trouble-shooting, ship operation and maintenance, marine electrical and air-conditioning systems maintenance. Well experienced on medium speed 4-stroke main engines and low speed 2-stroke main engines on LPG chemical tankers. Designer for LPG equipment, Oil and Water Separator (OWS) and Wastewater Treatment Facility. In Dubai, his blending of fuel impressed the Greek ship owners. His expertise is timely with Government’s obsession to rehabilitate the environment as in Boracay Island and now, the Manila Bay metropolitan coast. GTBH can handle toxic chemical, lead compounds, recycling/treatment/blending of used/waste oils, grease wastes and waste organic solvents, mercury and mercury compound, wastewater treatment, and recycling used plastics. Critical. Waste generation continues to
increase with population expansion, industrialization and rapid urbanization. Proper management of waste has become a critical issue. Segregation is the most pivotal stage but often mismanaged, causing environmental pollution and health risks. With urbanization and changes in lifestyle, water consumption will increase as supply will decrease. GTBH proposes to use the treated wastewater on fire-fighting, watering public plants, even irrigation. Challenges. As an endearment, Bacay calls his father a “pilot” for climbing coconut trees to extract sap for fermenting wine. Also, to find food for a brood of eight siblings. He inherited this boldness. Orphaned of a mother, he stowed away at 12; joined a fishing boat at 13 to serve food to the crew and odd services as he pushed through public high school. He picked on a typical Batangueno kalakalan (business) like itinerant peddling of banig (sleeping mat) and kulambo (mosquito net) on cash or installment basis. He was challenged when no one expected him to go beyond high school. So he worked days as
messenger at a bank as he studied at night at Phil Maritime Institute (PMIQuezon City). Organized. He earned BS in Marine Engineering in 1978. After three months, he boarded as an Engine Cadet. In two years, he was promoted as Oiler. Whenever offshore, he takes exams and gets promoted. Even on those times where jobs were scarce, Bacay always find employment. He became a Mechanical Foreman in Saudi Arabia, licensed as 3rd Engineer, then 2nd Engineer (from 1988-1999) with high salary... quota na, meaning life is essentially fulfilled. But having two sons, he thought of aspiring as Chief Engineer. He placed Third on the computer exams and passed the licensure in one take. Job offers came from Magsaysay, Simbawang, and Bright Maritime. The latter he chose for his first command as Chief Engineer of mostly LPG, Tankers and Crude Carriers manned by Greeks. Most of his postings were in Africa, particularly Nigeria, a main oil producer in Central Africa. Both Bright Maritime
and World Carrier have major charters owing to their big ships, often protected by the Navy because the area is high security risk. Survival. He first experienced war in 1988 in the conflict between Iran and Iraq. Aboard the 162,228 GT Iranian Tanker T.T. Avaj, they were hit dead-on by a missile killing 21 Filipinos, three survived with one Briton. He was then newly married and prayed hard to survive. He stripped his life jacket, jumped eyes closed in a choice between the raging fire and the deep ocean. Others who did, hit the rope and were wounded. Water around was a raging inferno, fed by over two million barrels of oil spilled. Bacay swum and floated for over two hours, struggling on his muscle memory as a Champion in PMI in free style, back stroke and butterfly. It also helped that Avaj was hit on the starboard side while Bacay was at the port side, covered from the wind and the gnarling flame.
He was rescued and brought to a magnificent underground hospital for two weeks treatment. One with him broke down mentally from the shock. Bacay was later flown to Medical City for post traumatic psychiatry. He filed for benefits and insurance but failed to receive any. Obsession. Aside from being a property owner, an educator and businessman, Bacay is a member of the MARINA Panel of Examiners for Certificate of Marine Profession (CMP) which conducts written and oral examinations in Regional Offices for domestic shipping with 35 to 500 GT. He will try hard to improve supply chain working conditions, a commitment to safety, fairness, dignity and respect --to improve the well-being of overseas workers and protect human rights. Chief Engineer Galicano Tatlonghari Bacay is now well-established but on a mission for earth and people, that every person has to make choices on protecting the environment. He envisions every one to pitch in, to be soldiers for Mother Nature.
Partners Bacay and Milana at their water treatment facility
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MAN OVERBOARD TRENDING by Ligaya Caban On the flipside of safety seminars, there grows cases of missing seafarers, not including those missing from identified accidents like fire, explosion, collision, sinking. Simply tagged, “man overboard” with unfound body, unknown causes --Accident? Suicide? Foul play? Data on this global concern are yet uncertain. But families in the Philippines are now grieving --- the number growing --- expectedly, as the country is the biggest supplier of merchant mariners. International charity organizations assist the few who are aware of their services, fewer still are areas they could and are able to meaningfully help. State Administrations, burdened with their own loads, react with “immediate investigation” usually when blared by mass media and those reported missing are their nationals. Perhaps, it will move things faster if we give faces of those missing. Perhaps, better protocols may be imposed when we revisit the surviving family, the orphaned children, the households dislocated from their needs and wants. Perhaps. But there is no official list. We must start from those found missing, no pun intended. Kristoffer Agpasa Galorio. Marinong Pinoy cites Galorio’s mother dislike on “condolences” pouring in which imply that her son is gone. Many are posting unsolicited remarks, some insensitive, some fake, others irrelevant. Mrs. Acette Agpasa Galorio has posted an “official” statement, notably disclaiming Pinky Galorio is authorized even if Pinky’s posting triggered interest on her nephew’s case. Bryle is a 20-year old from Iligan City who boarded last October, his first since graduating on a scholarship grant from the Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA).
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In just over two months, he was reported missing from the LPG tanker BW Oak, built in 2008 and flagged by the Isle of Man, a tiny country in the vicinity of the United Kingdom. His last known conversation was a day after Christmas. His family was informed Dec 28th, crumbling all dreams in a season
bitter on the uncertainties. The agency facilitated and paid for expenses for the mother to go to Japan to recover personal belongings of Bryle from the vessel. But after a week of waiting in Manila, she was told to go to Korea, the BW Oak berthing there by January 11th. Bryle’s girlfriend gave the mother phone screen shots which revealed Bryle’s problems with the Chief Mate and Second Mate, both Filipinos.
The athletic Galorio
of merriment. The manning agency briefed the mother on rescue operations under the Honolulu Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre with three vessels and a C-130 aircraft. It was called off after 40 hours without finding Bryle. In a statement from Singapore, BW says it “… understand(s) the frustration felt by the family” and “… deeply concerned to have lost a young man given to our care.” There are three investigations ongoing, independent of the other: by the Isle of Man, the Japanese Coast Guard and a BW Team led by heads of its Global Manning and Fleet Security.
It appears being just a cadet and a trainee, Bryle was abused with rude expletives and work overload, often without respect to rest and sleep, duration and chill of winter; nitpicking on brand of pencil used on the chart, on ink color used on the logbook. The mother suspects the answers of the 23 crewmates are planado and plantsado (planned and whitewashed). Given repeated “reminders” of the agency against speaking to the media, treating the mother with 5-Star amenities, to hush-hush the incident, cajoling to sign the insurance quitclaim --- there must be more than meets the eye. The mother is afraid Bryle’s case will sit, not even docketed; until maybe an ambulance chaser (with a gutless lawyer and a corrupt bureaucrat) comes to exploit, a solution worse than the problem. Wilhelm Tabares Mantua. 25 years old, graduate from the JBLF Maritime University in the Visayas region of the archipelago. He is reported missing from M/V Lady Ami, February 1.
Ms. Gina delos Reyes Virtusio of Maritime Technical Intl Asia and speaking as BW Phil Representative, assures “…BW remains fully committed” in sharing information with those concerned to prevent similar incidents from being repeated.
While the ship was leaving the Port of Liepaja (Latvia) at 16.00 hourlocal, February 1st, Master Maarten Bekkema was informed Mantua was missing. Rescue operations were started, supported by vessels in the immediate vicinity.
The family is gripped by the loss, doubly
Unfortunately, there was no positive
the Queensland-Australia Police and prefers the Australia Federal Police (AFP) to take over. They find loopholes and biased perception like Arnel is not equal to his job, a judgment “echoed” by the other crew in spite of the established work ethics of Arnel in his 17 years at sea.
Mantua focused on the job
result. The M/V Lady Ami is moored in the port of Liepaja, with Crewing Manager AukeDouma to support all international authorities. Over-all coordination is from the head office in Delfzijl, led by its safety department. The Board of Directors issued a reassuring statement, with its “… thoughts and prayers” for the family of Wilhelm and the crew on board. Toto, his brother, was Spartan in his stand: “malampusannatonnitanan… Hindi kami mag untatastamahibal-an namunangtanan” (We shall overcome all these; we shall not stop until we know all). One can feel the excruciating pain as the brother is joined by family, Cattleya May Mantua and Lyn BorjaTabares, clutching at straws in pain and in silence, for prayers for Wilhelm, their palangga (beloved).
The Intl Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has involved itself with Natl Coordinator, Dean Summers, saying police boarded at Townsville but “questions their understanding of the crew’s language, culture and appreciation of maritime industry.”
His sister Neneng Ann Ann wishes Pres. Duterte to intervene given three shortfalls: •
Vessels near the vicinity of Songa Breeze did not exert effort to help
•
Hands at the oil rig in Lancapan did not hear nor responded to the cry
•
Slow response of the Coast Guard (PCG)
ITF was harassed by company representatives, Queensland police even prevented access and frustrated all attempts to speak to the Master and crew. Summers finds similarity with the highprofile incident on Sage Sagittarius where three died while on international waters. The NSW Coroner declared foul play on the Chief Cook and Chief Engineer, with the third highly suspect. The Coroner recommended a tracer fact-finding to Japanese authorities.The superintendent sent by the owners to investigate was found dead in the self-discharge gear while the Sage was docked in Japan.
The livestock carrier is owned by the Dutch Vroon, flagof- convenience (FoC) registered in Singapore Gillo onboard just three days and chartered Arnel M. Gillo. by Australiabased Harmony The 2nd Engineer was reported missing Agriculture and Food. The company says March 13, 2018 from the Galloway the incident “unfortunate” but refuses to Express which he boarded barely three cooperate with ITF. days past. The family cannot accept the report of
Ludemar Lozada Legario.
Again, the family sobs as it waits.
Legario kin seeks Duterte’s help
Distress signal sent to El Nido PalawanPCG station was unanswered, owing to weak signal thereat (claims the duty officer). The sister admonishes The President to investigate, to check on maritime problems and not just focus on illegal drugs campaign. “Omar” is a 25-year old from Lambunao, Iloilo, last seen on Christmas at 6:30 pm onboard Songa Breeze navigating on international waters en route from Labuan, Malaysia to Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The Man Over Board (MOB) incident was 100 nautical miles off Palawan Passage. His sister, Hizzle Borbon Paguntalan reignited fading interest with FB postings; sought help from a national radio-tv program popular for intervention for the aggrieved poor. A cousin lined
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up in the scorching heat, #244 of 250 hopefuls. She failed to be on air as man-woman relations is the priority, not maritime issues.
PCG scoured the vessel from top to bottom but cannot locate Fuentes, says ENS Jherich Ybañez, spokesperson of PCG-Normin District.
Hizzle also tried, secured a letter for a lawyer at the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) but was given the round-around. A phone number assures access but ends up chiseling the desperate of even loose change.
Hours before, Fuentes had informed his family of his promotion to Chief Mate. This makes his disappearance suspicious; ridiculous he would jump off the vessel, thinks Nelly, his mother.
Hizzle bleeds as she reads posts of family members agonizing just like her. But she keeps her head above water and shares pointers: 1) Pray hard and be strong. 2) Don’t easily believe all information relayed, be a critical thinker. 3) There is a due process for everything and it helps if you approach the legal government authorities. 4) Be open to all communication especially to the manning agency. 5) Research, research, research, then study, study, study, and act accordingly. She calls to be strong, “be the wings of our missing loved ones.” Dominador Fuentes III. The Coast Guard (PCG) in Northern
Fuentes was just promoted
Mindanao continues search and operations for the 33-year old seafarer, reported missing last January 15th from the M/V Grande Progreso around 3 p.m., according to the Captain. The cargo vessel was then carrying iron ore from Brazil, in the vicinity of Laguindingan coast, waiting to dock at the Phil Sinter port in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental.
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along the waters. To no avail, nowhere is Valentin, 23-year old from Buguey, North Cagayan who holds a BS Marine Transport degree. The crew says Valentin
The family has sought the help of the Natl Bureau of Investigation (NBI), hoping the vessel won’t leave the Philippines until the case is solved. The PCG has also informed the coastal communities along Misamis Oriental province to report any sign of Fuentes. Juan Valentin Taloza. His case was substantially covered by Marino World, Apr-June 20015 edition. The Filipino O/S was reported missing May 17, 2015 while on duty in Port Pointe Noire, Congo, Central Africa. The father, Pedro Taloza, Jr. originally appealed to ITF Sec-Gen Stephen Cotton who cascaded it to Lam Wai Hong (Jason), ITF Inspector posted in Hong Kong where the crew is covered by the Hong Kong comprehensive bargaining agreement (CBA) and the local union may help. It was on March 4th that the family learned of the incident from a call by Tutela Marine, the manning agency of the missing Taloza, assured by its president, Capt. Vevencio Tugano, that everything is being done to resolve the incident. Initial investigation states the Hong Kong flagged roro M/V Thorco Serenity was docked at Port Pointe Noire, the second largest city in the Congo and the country’s essential center of the oil industry which, in turn, is one of the main oil producers in Central Africa. On March 2nd, 10pm local time, Valentin was seen at the poop deck of the vessel for anti-theft watchkeeping night duty. On March 3rd, 8am, the crew noticed Taloza missing from breakfast where everyone is usually present. The crew started searching the whole ship; Congo authorities helped, even
Dreams shattered for Taloza and family
took offsick for a few days earlier, complaining of dizzy spells and inability to sleep. Tugano assures they are covering the bases but Congo has not release any formal report; work, government and insurance benefits are pending, like POEA’s mandatory $10,000 is only for the dead, not those missing. Pedro, Jr. is agitated: what of the widow and their 3-year old son?; should the vessel continue to sail as if the incident is resolved?; what legal body takes jurisdiction? “My son’s dream and aspiration … were all shattered… We are begging for truth and justice.” Forever? Marino World picked examples from a Filipino vantage: reactions, sad and gnawing; responses, angry and agitated --- yet all on appeals, be it to the principals or agents, be it to government or managers. To whoever, just that those in the protocols to never forget the dislocations of the household, the pain of losing a beloved, the uncertainties of wait, of just waiting as business and time move on. While the orphaned, the dependents --the common dreams --- must hope, must wait.
training
TOPMAST UPGRADES EDUCATION The modern ECDIS Room with Chief of Technical Officer JR Dequina and Fatima instructor Ferdinand Romero
Our Lady of Fatima University at Valenzuela City has led modernization in the area by installing Engine Room Simulator and ECDIS, upgrading maritime education to world-class level. And well chosen as Image Soft Oy is from a leading maritime software developer from Finland and exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Topmast. Schools and training centers take Topmast’s Image Soft being technically advanced, reasonably priced and more user-friendly.
Image Soft Maritime Training Simulators create sophisticated, high quality training environments for DNV GL certified maritime training. Product line is comprehensive with Full Mission Bridge Simulators, ECDIS, ARPA Radar, Sonar and GMDSS Simulators. IS Full Mission Bridge
At the Engine Room Simulator, Fatima instructor Camilus Gulim bonds with cadets Simulator for Arctic Training applies on maneuvering vessels on ice; Engine Room Simulator tops the portfolio. Topmast CEO Joel Espineli is proud to promote an excellent faculty tool as Image Soft, featuring software security, tightly safeguarded from being cloned or pirated.
CEO Joel Espineli and Image Soft CEO Erick Matti at the CrewConnect Global Conference & Exhibition held in Manila, November 5-7, 2018
Added bonus is the quality after-sales service from the Topmast Team with free technical support and consultation, rapid response being locally based.
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PAMI 44th Annual Convention
CATALYST FOR CHANGE
PAMI Pres Felix Oca
The Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) holds its 44th Annual Convention on February 22 to 23, 2019, at the Grand Regal Hotel Davao, Davao City.
to weather challenges not only of maritime education but the whole maritime industry because of Kapit-Bisig --- voices unified and heard by the maritime industry.
It shall celebrate 35th Anniversary on May 24th with 74 institutional members.
With the twin celebrations, PAMI Pres. Felix Oca assures “we will continue to serve the Association to the best that we can and deliver effective and efficient services to all the member-institutions.”
PAMI acts as a unified body to meet stakeholders’ satisfaction by being a catalyst of change and the voice for Maritime Education and Training (MET). Its Board of Trustees has given unwavering support to the leadership, enabling PAMI
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Annual report. Engr. Oca predicates his report, “With your trust and support, we make another
milestone as an Association with unity and understanding.” In 2018, he believes PAMI has still stood firm amidst challenges because of “… unity and open our doors for changes and move forward to a progressive maritime industry.” The year also “played witness to different changes in maritime industry and its governing agencies. The year of adjustments, the year of embracing the fast yet uncertain transitions of the maritime education and still the Association has
maintained its ability to take these transitions with confidence and able to adapt to the needs of the industry.� Details. For the Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs), PAMI created a Course Programs Development Committee which took the initiative to conduct various workshops for the development of standard syllabus for all professional maritime courses. PAMI initiated a database information system which will make available facts among industry players for research and improvement.
GMDSS Simulator
In partnership with the IMMAJ-PJMCC Foundation, PAMI was able to seek two batches of IMO Model Course 6.09, Training for Instructors; two batches of IMO Model Course 3.12, Training for Assessors; four batches of IMO Model Course 6.10, Training for Simulators’ Instructors and Assessors. The Association submitted comments, voiced out position on the Magna Carta for Seafarers bill in the Senate hearings. PAMI maintained its seat in the Technical Panel for Maritime Education despite transitions in CHEd and MARINA. It was part of the Philippine Delegation to sessions of the IMO Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW), at the IMO headquarters in London, England. PAMI is an active Convenor of the Movement for Maritime Philippines (MMP), involved in round-table discussions by the National Coast Watch Council (NCWC/MMP partnership), speaking out concerns and issues of maritime institutions which have a big part in Human Sector during the Maritime Industry PreConvergence and in the Maritime Industry Convergence proper.
Engine Room Simulator
And more. Active MHEI-members were validated and listed which generated income to support PAMI daily office operations. The Association held a General Membership Assembly to discuss amendments to the Article of Incorporation and By-Laws. Former MARINA Administrator Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero even attended to dialogue for meaningful changes. It is noticeable PAMI now has an effective and efficient Secretariat for daily office transactions and dissemination of updated information to members.
Borealis Ecdis Simulator
www.poseidon.no Unit 1412 Cityland Herrera Tower #98 V.A.Rufino St., cor. Valero St. Salcedo Village Makati City Telefax No.: +632 893-1614 /+632 893-5525 Email Address: manila@poseidon.no
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shipbuilding
MARINA’s Vingson, Jr and Hernandez
HANJIN : BOON OR BANE? by Coca H. Strobar Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Philippines (HHICPhil) filed in January a petition at the Regional Trial Court in Olongapo City to initiate voluntary rehabilitation under Republic Act 10142 which provides for rehabilitation or liquidation of the financially distressed. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Wilma T. Eisma says Hanjin officials had revealed the company owes some $400 million in loans from Philippine banks, $900 million with lenders in South Korea. Hanjin is the biggest foreign investor in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, building since 2008 some 123 high-value vessels in a 300-hectare shipyard (4 hectares for training, 4 hectares for dormitory). Established in 2006, it is asubsidiary of Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction, a multi-national conglomerate on shipbuilding, construction, and plant services. Jobs. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III assures displaced workers that “… We will prioritize your re-employment “ since “…You are all highly skilled workers and your expertise are indemand here in our country,” needed
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in the Build Build Build infrastructure program of the Administration. DOLE Region 3 Director Ma. Zenaida Campita showed most Hanjin workers are highly skilled construction workers and welders, age range of 25 to 40 years. Hanjin employed some 30,000 at peak operations but fired 7,000 last December and 3,000 more in the New Year. Just about 300 local workers with seven Korean supervisors would remain by March to do maintenance. Relief. Aside from re-employment, the labor department will also assist in the facilitation of the workers’ separation pay, a moratorium on their social benefits, and the processing of the refund of the employment bond which the service providers/agencies have deducted on the salaries of the workers. Bello said he may request funds from the Office of the President to provide emergency employment similar to that given in Boracay when the island underwent rehabilitation. There is also a job caravan where up to 77 companies offer more than 22,000 jobs for welders, carpenters, pipe-fitters, steel men, scaffolders, electricians, painters, masons and laborers.
Overseas. ACTS-OFW PartyList Nominee Aniceto Bertiz III prods government to help displaced Hanjin workers get new jobs in New Zealand where there is a huge demand for skilled labor. Filipino construction workers there are paid 10 times the P537 daily minimum wage in Metro Manila. Rep. Bertiz claims they “… sent home a record P11.4 billion in cash in the first 11 months of 2018, up 81.5 percent from P6.3 billion in the same period in 2017.” New Zealand openings may compensate the United States’ ban on temporary work visas to a fuel pipeline project in Houston, Texas. Takeover. Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri thinks the bankruptcy is a “golden opportunity” to be able to take control of the Hanjin facility for shipbuilding for the Navy, Coast Guard and armed forces modernization. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana agrees while Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez is mulling how local banks can recoup investments amounting to $430 million.
Lorenzana notes Navy needs 20 ships in the next five years; Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson thinks of floating bonds of P75-billion in the 2019 natl budget to underwrite the takeover. MARINA OIC Narciso Vingson, Jr. is hesitant with a look-see position on how Hanjin cleans up its affairs.
A Class, 7– 130 meters minimum length overall.
Implications.
The 119th shipyard is HHIC-Phil but registered by SBMA in the free port zone, under RA 7227, as a large shipyard under SBMA exclusive jurisdiction.
Former Navy Chief Alexander Pama believes “… this Hanjin shipyard issue is not just about business, financial and other economic issues”but whoever takes control gets “…unlimited access to one of the Philippines most strategic geographic naval and maritime asset.”
B Class, 14–129 meters maximum length overall. C Class, 97 –80 meters maximum length overall.
Lorenzana named a Korean automobile maker, Hyundai Motors, as among those eyeing to help HHIC. “If worse comes to worst that we have to take over then the Senate has already allocated money to takeover the facility and then the Navy plus some local shipbuilders also can come in and run the facility.”
Subic Drydock, 1.12%; Herma Shipyard, 0.84%; PICMW, 0.30%; Gensan Shipyard, 0.20% and Frabelle Shipyard, 0.14%. The Shipbuilders Association of Japan on a Per World Order Book Share basis places the Philippines fifth on Standing on Global Shipbuilding: China, 32.2%; South Korea, 30.2%; Japan, 28.8%; European Union, 3.0% and the Philippines, 2.9%. On MARINA’s MC 2018-02, our 118 Shipyards are classified on capability to build and repair:
Extend. MARINA OIC NarcisoVingson, Jr. believes HHIC-Phil privileges should be extended to local builders, guided by MARINA’s 10-year Maritime Industry Development Program (MIDP). He claims Filipinos are by nature shipbuilders, wary on attracting foreigners with incentives who ship-out when the going is rough, dislocating workers, leaving outstanding loans from local and foreign lenders. Instead, Vingson wants to develop local capacities, prominently in ports, shipping services, manpower development, maritime research, registry. Progress will then cascade to other industries and specialties.
Numbers. Top 10 Shipyards in Tonnage Capacity (DWT) are HHIC-Phi,l 34%; Keppel Subic Shipyard, 29%; Tsuneishi Heavy Industries, 11%; Keppel Batangas Shipyard, 2.03%; Mactan Shipyard, 1.78%;
with Export Revenues: 2008 – $0.52B; 2009 - $ 1.23B; 2010 - $1.45B; 2011 $1.75B; 2012 - $1.81B; 2013 - $1.96B; 2014 - $2.23B; 2015 - $2.41B and 2016 - $2.54B.
ShAP Chair Meneleo
Output. With 20,000 technical and skilled workers, two mega graving docks (up to 450,000 DWT), 600 ton goliath cranes, has this Yearly Production Output between 2007 to 2017: Container – 9 Panamax (65,000 DWT) Oil Tanker – 6 Aframax (80,000-120,000 DWT) 1 VLCC (300,000 DWT) Bulker – 21 Capsize (150,000 DWT) LNG Carrier – 2-150,000 DWT It also manufactured steel and offshore structures, including hatch cover, transmission tower and steel bridge
Engr. Ramon Hernandez, MARINA Director of Shipyards Regulations Service, notes a disparity in vessel imports in the last ten years: 1,202 imported versus 720 local. On the average, locals build 500 gt. With MIDP, Hernandez projects we can average 3,000 dwt in five years. ShAP. MARINA’s MIDP is fully supported by the Shipyard Association of the Phil (ShAP), composed of 97 of the 188 shipyards in the country. ShAP Chairman Meneleo Carlos III recognizes MARINA’s effort to collaborate with maritime stakeholders, drafting policies and formulating programs to address challenges. In its 2nd National Convention Nov 15 to 16, 2018 in Cebu City, ShAP presented its agenda on shipbuilding, ship repair, and ship breaking industry to align with MARINA circulars regarding the registration and licensing of shipyards, including afloat ship repairs.
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MORE RORO ROUTES The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has opened 19 new Roll-on /Roll-off (RoRo) missionary routes to service even areas of small traffic volume. The move is meant to upgrade domestic shipping, maximize usage of the nautical highways, one of the eight priority programs of the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP). The new routes are: Basco, Batanes – Currimao, Ilocos Norte; Batangas City – San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; San Juan, Batangas – Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro; Real, Quezon – Polillo Island, Quezon; Lucena, Quezon – Odiongan, Romblon; Lucena, Quezon - Buyabod, Marinduque; Lucena, Quezon – Romblon, Romblon; Lucena, Quezon – Masbate City.
Maasin, Southern Leyte – Ubay, Bohol; San Narciso, Quezon – San Pascual, Masbate. Pantao, Albay – San Pascual, Masbate; Calbayog City, Samar – Cataingan, Masbate; Taytay, Palawan – Cuyo, Palawan; Cuyo, Palawan – San Jose de Buenavista, Antique; Oslob, Cebu – Dumaguete, Negros Oriental; Punta Engano, Mactan Island, Cebu – Jetafe, Bohol; Poro, Camotes, Cebu – Isabel, Leyte; Lipata, Surigao del Norte – Dapa, Surigao del Norte; and the19th route, Siaton, Negros Oriental – Dipolog City. Shipping companies may do well in the new routes within Road RoRo Terminal System (RRTS), a seamless stretch of roads and ports to improve inter-island
transportation, enhance tourism, and expand regional markets. MARINA defines a RoRo missionary route as one or more direct links covering two RoRo-capable ports that have no existing shipping service due to geographic limitation and/or absence of market viability. Shipping company which operate there enjoy protection of investment for five years and 50% discount on fees on application and renewal of ship licenses, certificates and permits. MARINA also awaits suggestions on new routes to open for the further development of the domestic shipping industry.
Established Exhibitors Returning
2019 CHINA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW The 24th China International Boat Show (CIBS) is on June 20 to 23, 2019 to be held for the first time at the Natl Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai. CIBS is the most comprehensive and longestrunning boat and yacht exhibition in China organized by UBM Sinoexpo.
Success of CIBS is also due to being simultaneous with The Life Style Show 2019 (Water Sports/Lure Fishing/RV Camping/ Theme Travel) as well as CPHI & FIA. These present the boating industry a complete offering of the leisure, recreation and luxury industries to a burgeoning middle and upper class of China.
Space at the intl boat equipment pavilion is almost sold out as established participants confirm presence at the region’s eagerly anticipated event for boating enthusiasts which continues to inspire with innovation and creativity.
CIBS spreads out across two halls, one which will showcase a plethora of boats and yachts showing off the very best in design and craftsmanship; the second hall will showcase an extensive range of equipment supplies and services.
Over 65% of exhibitors will return to the biggest edition of CIBS, including Mercury, Beneteau, Suzuki, Honda, Holylight, MarvelWin, and Garmin. Many more renowned brands are taking advantage of the best exhibiting rates.
Over 40,000 visitors are expected, including international buyers from the USA, UK, Italy, Germany, South Korea and Australia. CIBS has become the ideal launching ground for many new entrants to the market as it
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provides a focused and unique environment for those wishing to test the market in China with new products and services. The event also provides an educational opportunity visitors and exhibitors to enhance their industry knowledge and learn about topical trends in the market from industry experts. The CIBS venue is near the railway station and the international airport which is ideal to more exhibitors,in turn lead “… to more professional buyers keen to seek out new products and solutions,” says Helena Gao, Group Director of UBM Sinoexpo. For more information, please visit http:// www.boatshowchina.com/en-us/Home
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