Marino WORLD MAR-APR 2018 EDITION

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VOLUME XIII NO. 3 ISSN 1908-0972

PHP120

MARCH - APRIL 2018

MARINO WORLD

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Governance

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GO, JOHNNY, GO! GO!

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Cover Story

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MEDIALDEA IN MAGSAYSAY INSTITUTE Education

MARITIME CAREER FOR THE FILIPINO YOUTH Feature

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MONTANO IN MPC-NAGA Shipping

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MAJOR BANKS SUPPORT FASTCAT BUILD-UP

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Content

ABOUT THE COVER Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

Exec Sec Salvador Medialdea is out front for the seafaring profession and the maritime industry; declared as he keynotes at the Magsaysay Institute of Shipping commencement rites. He is also bullish on MANA

Mo 2018, chairing the National Coast Watch Council (NCWC), overseer of the fanfare on Pres.

Duterte’s proclamation, “Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo).”

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Editorial Consultant

Lyn Bacani

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

Special Project Manager Gel Miranda

Photographers

Philip Ismael Binos Jerome Reyes

Richard Teo

Visayas Correspondent

Admin Assistant Janille Pellejo

Boy Ilano

Production Assistants Joana Marie Tud

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

united maritime Amidst the jockeying of interests, Marino World still sees on current issues the dignity of the Filipinos as a race and the Philippines as a country at stake, the challenges summoning the spirit of valor.

dependent as domino chips arranged in a pile. Of course, vested interests are always being leveraged. But the immutable fact is that each has umbilical cord to the other for common survival and progress.

Despite being competitors, critics of each other --stakeholders come and talk for the good of the industry they so loved. After all, most of the executives are active seafarers or from families of seafarers who migrated to land-based business.

The sitting president is pro-poor, anti-corruption and impatience on the dilly-dallying of interventions, decisions and reforms --- never a shrinking violet on both confrontational violence and primacy of purpose.

EMSA is not just a MARINA issue but a national concern, too. When thousands of jobs are lost, the image of Filipino seafarers sinks as preferred seafarers of the world. In numbers, we are already dislodged by China.

Luckily, her merchant mariners are yet chained to its domestic fleet and not competitive in the open global market as Filipinos are.

Our government tried to resolve things with its tact alone but to no avail. The private sector must be involved, in a tripartite dialogue of labor, capital and regulator (i.e., government). Hopefully, the dynamics of reform may overarch against the dynamism of profit, unreasonable profit.` Each sector is intertwined with the other, mutually

EMSA is an opportunity of growth: clearly itemizing things to do but we must walk our talk. It is not hawak sa patalim (holding on the lacerating edge) but “biting the bullet� for priority reforms over fence-sitting and grandstanding.

And EMSA is half-filled, not half-empty. But we must act in unison, not just twit Government or incumbents for more, more jobs, more business, more wants than needs.

Our President is open, ripe for the push by our leaders as the Movement for Maritime Phil (MMP) and other professional associations and subject matter experts (SME).

Your move, Mate!

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Cover Story

Sec. Medialdea, Chair Manese, Pres. Rono

MEDIALDEA AT MAGSAYSAY INSTITUTE OF SHIPPING

by Coca H. Strobar Busy but.

The Magsaysay Institute of Shipping (MIS) conducted its seventh and final batch of graduates for the year, after being the pioneer in 2011 to implement the Academe-Industry Linkage Program (AILP) --- allowing MIS to host and conduct all third-year program of partner schools in BS Marine Transportation (BSMT) and BS Marine Engineering (BSMarE).

The AILP highlights MIS ability to prepare and enhance the cadet’s education, training and leadership skills.

The founding companies – Magsaysay Maritime Corporation and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines --- guarantee the employment of the graduates.

Commencement exercises were held last March 9 at Via Verde Village, Dasmariñas City, Cavite with Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea as Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker.

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Aklan Polytechnic College, Aklan

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Bicol Merchant Marine College, Sorsogon City

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Capitol University, Cagayan De Oro

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Cebu Technological University, Carmen Cebu

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University of Cebu, Cebu City

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Holy Cross of Davao College, Davao City

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Lyceum International Maritime Academy, Batangas City

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Mindanao Polytechnic College, South Cotabato

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PIMSAT Colleges, Dagupan City

Just remember and always be proud that you are a Filipino seafarer.”

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St. Therese-MTC Colleges, Iloilo City

Culture.

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West Bay College, Muntinlupa City

Medialdea chairs the National Coast

Conferred the academic letters were 87(47 for BSMT and 40 BSMarE), having successfully completed the 10-month academic program and handson technical soft skills training delivered in MIS.

11 partner schools are all over the country:

Track record.

For more than 20 years, the MIS has established a culture of excellence by producing seafarers with highcaliber training and discipline and its commitment to provide training to select cadets from all over the Philippines.

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Sec. Medialdea seldom accepts speaking invitation given his very busy schedule.

But he opted for this one “…because of the very noble program of Magsaysay and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines which I have known for the last several years.”

As the secretary pledges personal support, he recounted how the maritime industry has evolved: from the navigation through the stars and now, with GPS and other apps and digital equipment; and, presently having the largest cruise ship, MS Harmony, which carries 6,780 passengers and 2,300 crew members.

“In our lifetime, we have seen the growth of the international trade more than ever we all know that marine transport fuels this growth. I remember meeting a ship captain years back and asked about the stresses in the sea in managing such a big ship. And he said, oh I don’t have that problem, I have an all Filipino crew.”

Watch Council (NCWC), overseer of the celebrations for 2018 MANA Mo, acronym for the presidential proclamation, “Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month .

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

Roots.

Born in Manila October 14, 1951, Salvador Campo Medialdea is a lawyer, business executive and government administrator appointed June 30, 2016.

He is a son of Supreme Court Associate Justice Leo D. Medialdea (1988 to 1992) in the term of Pres. Corazon Aquino.

“Bingbong” was reared in Davao City, childhood friend of Digong Duterte.

He attended the Light Bringer School, returned to Manila to finish high school at Paco Catholic School. He received his BS Commerce Major in Management from Colegio de San Juan de Letran in 1972 and his law degree from San Beda College in 1976, passing the bar the following year.

Medialdea started as a Senior Associate at ACCRA Law Offices, then partner at Pecabar Law Offices, then managing partner at Medialdea Ata Bello Guevarra Suarez (MABGS).

He was Chairman of Northern Foods based in Sarrat; worked at the Livelihood Corp. (1998, now Natl Livelihood

DBP SVP Peralta confers the honor.

Development Corp) with the Board of Trustees and Administrator; at the same time Chairman of the Guarantee Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises.

In 2000, he was appointed by Estrada as Presidential Assistant for Political Affairs.

Medialdea is married to Atty. Betty Dizon, head of an insurance company, with whom he has a son. His family has roots in Davao City, Aklan and Ilocos.

He enjoys playing the piano and listening to classical music. He was one of the producers of Miss Saigon-Manila in 2000.

MIS sails on.

MIS President Marlon R. Roño announced that as the AILP cadetship program ends, a new program of Magsaysay and MOL is firmed-up, the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) which will be offering a fouryear degree program.

“The Academy will start this school year 2018. MMMA will be one of the leading maritime schools in the country.

It is the commitment of Magsaysay and MOL to the Philippines and to the global maritime industry.”

Roño committed that “We at Magsaysay and MOL will be behind you to fulfill your career to the fullest and to bring you to the next stage of your journey as you

continuously upgrade yourself. MIS will be here to support you.”

Bankable.

Atty. Lutgarda Baquiran-Peralta, SVP, Development Bank of the Phils, administers the endowment for education program for the financially-challenged but brilliant Filipino youth. This is “building the future of our nation… successful collaboration that has touched and challenged the lives of the 640 scholars and their families.

While this graduation marks the end of the MIS and the DBP partnership under DBP Endowment for Education Program, DBP continues to be at the forefront of carrying out relevant and meaningful social responsibilities programs.”

Peralta announced the launching June this year the DBP Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (DBP RISE) designed as a poverty reduction strategy “backed by a substantial P500 million allocation from DBP and is expected to cover at least five batches of scholars for five years… to complement the national government trust towards infrastructure build-up.”

Mitsui OSK. Chairman Koichi Muto of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines says, “The graduates here will soon become members of either Magsaysay MARINO WORLD

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MEDIALDEA IN MAGSAYSAY INSTITUTE OF SHIPPING

Jumpstart to a great career.

Group or MOL Group. The Magsaysay Group has the reputation for their contribution to not only the shipping industry but also their various social activities in the Philippines. MOL is an ocean transportation company with over 130 years of experience… one of the world’s largest shipping companies…

Always seek ways to push ahead and better yourselves. Welcome onboard Magsaysay and MOL and welcome to

Mitsui O.S.K. Chair Muto gives token to partner school UC

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new adventure. We look forward to you joining us in our endeavors to remain world leader in the maritime industry...”

O.S.K. Lines; Capt. Masanori Kato, Managing Executive Officer, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines.

Notables.

After the distribution of graduation certificates, special awards were announced on Best in Deck, Best in Engine, Best in Math, Servienda Award, and on Leadership and Excellence.

Also gracing the occasion were Alexander Querol, COO-MIS; Alex Enriquez, Institute Director; Arnold Javier, Pres-Magsaysay Maritime Corp; Capt. Francisco Menor, Pres-Magsaysay MOL Marine; Shizuo Takahashi, Senior Managing Executive Officer, Mitsui

Representatives from partner schools were given Plaques of Appreciation.

EC Task Group at the STCWO

EC axe may fall April 30

GO, JOHNNY, GO! GO!

by Ligaya Caban

As of our press time, the Board of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) fast tracks the evaluation of the draft of the country’s submission to the European Commission (EC) on or before April 30, a deadline conditional to the grant of extension to the Philippines.

MARINA has to act without an incumbent Administrator and lack of senior operational officials. However, there is now an Under-Secretary for the maritime and an Executive Secretary gleaning issues from the National Coast Watch Council (NCWC) he chairs.

The April 30, 2018, Philippine report must contain “measures done, or intended, to areas mentioned.” The next deadline is October 31st, for submission of “evidence of implementation.”

A year after (31 October 2019) the Philippines must show “evidence support Information Technology (IT) systems have been developed.”

The MARINA Board includes the Transport Secretary, Ports Authority, Coast Guard, Office of the President, Dept. of Trade and Industry and Development Bank of the Phils, with private sector representatives.

Certain.

Atty. Joy Vera Ban-eg, MARINA STCWOIC Executive Director and Deputy Director claims, “We will definitely beat

the submission,” as she shows April 19th to Marino World more than a hundred of documents, including annexes for the board meeting.

She confirms the Board with the STCW Advisory Council (SAC) will meet again on April 23 and submit the report April 27.

There seems to an inherent disconnect: voluminous documents on separate, sensitive issues, mulled over by so many agencies and private sector interests, on barely ten working days.

Fact is, Ban-eg herself relayed to stakeholders that Transport Sec. Arthur Tugade had ordered to convene a special MARINA Board to exclusively tackle EMSA issues and submit by middle of April the country’s report to EC. This was expressed at the Usapang STCW Forum of March 26 at the AMOSUP Convention Hall.

Failing on Tugade’s order, Ban-eg is not even apologetic to the Secretary and still claims MARINA will beat the EC deadline.

Task force.

MARINA created in February a task force in February chaired by Atty.

Benedicto G. Manlapaz, with vice chair Jonrey M. Calderon and MARINA employees Herbert V. Nalupa, Madiline Joanna F. Galve, Junnard Hababag,

Luisito Delos Santos.

They are joined by Per-Arne Waloen, Norwegian Maritime Authority Advisor to MARINA and of two from the secretariat, Maryland V. De Castro and Maria Isabel Anne D. Javier.

The EC Task Group shall work fulltime on: 1. List EC’s assessment and things of RP, one by one, timeframe for completion; 2. Analyze each of the assessment and the specific issues/problems raised; 3. Check STCW mandates on each issue/ problem identified; 4. Determine the roots of each; 5. Recommend measures to address these; 6. Check if the existing STCW Office (STCWO) Quality Management System (QMS) would sufficiently cover the implementation of proposed actions; or recommend amendments; 7. Submit the result of Items 1 to 6 for review by heads of STCWO or other agencies and then an endorsement from the Administrator; and 8. Review all audits on implementation of measures taken for effectiveness and recommend doable adjustments, among other things.

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GO, JOHNNY, GO! GO!

Stakeholders.

On top, members of the STCW Advisory Council (SAC) reviewed the report and gave inputs: •

Capt. Constantino Arcellana Owners rep., TSM/Norden

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Capt. Emerico B. Gepilano – VP, CREST Assessment, Review & Training Center

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Capt. Ronald Enrile, ANGKLA PartyList Vice Chairman

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Capt. Victor Del Prado, Pres., Society of Filipino Ship Captains

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Capt. Jess Morales, Pres., Integrated Seafarers of the Phils

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Engr. Sammuel Lim, Chair, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers

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Capt. Hernando Eusebio, Pres., Trans Star Shipping Agency

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Mr. Emmanuel De Vera, GM, Wilhelmsen Shipmanagement

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Atty. Dolly Ohdate- Pres., Asiana Ship Management

Arcellana, Del Prado and Lim gathered March 9th other stakeholders at the Century Park Hotel, at the initiative of the Society of Filipino Ship Captains and Masters and Mates Association of the Phils which discussions led to a common position on assessment and shipboard training.

Capt. Arcellana believes almost all suggestions were accepted by MARINA, just corrected to form. He expects a MARINA issuance for dissemination to seafarers.

A SAC member thinks EMSA requirements are “doable”; just need concerted efforts by MARINA, CHEd, schools and training centers. He wants focus on issues raised by EMSA; tackle later revisions of RA 10635 and IRR thereto.

C/E Alfredo Haboc, CHED consultant, wishes joint circular by MARINA and

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CHEd on monitoring, sensitively on CMO 67 and 70. While he wishes these to be institutionalized, Haboc warns on over-reacting on just basics being asked.

Report.

management system, programme and course approval, the monitoring and evaluation of training and assessment, the assessment of competence, onboard training, certification, facilities (prominently simulators).

Evidence.

The April report is also a follow-up of the Voluntary Corrective Action Plan (VCAP) submitted by MARINA last September 8, 2017, indicating measures taken or planned to address the issues identified in the 2017 EMSA inspection report.

In pragmatic terms, EC has made it easier for the Phil by exactly identifying where corrective measures should be done. The problem is, the VCAP has not pinpointed things done, things planned and proof thereof.

Atty Ban-eg: MARINA can comply

The subject “report” or “submission” (dependent on one’s sensitivity to sovereignty) is in response to the Assessment of Compliance of the maritime education, training and certification system of the Philippines with STCW 1978, as amended, released by the Directorate D-Waterborne of the Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport of the European Union (EU) European Commission.

Such reassessment is based on EMSA fact-finding “audits,” the latest between 13 and 23 March 2017, and earlier in 2006 and 2014 (and Philippine submissions thereat).

It appears the country has shortcomings on the STCW system, so are MARINA, CHEd and maritime education and training (MET) institutions, the latter on programme and course design, review and approval, qualification and training of assessors, instructors and supervisors, and revalidation.

There are shortfalls on certification,

Hence, EC gave by 30 April 2018 as deadline on measures in place or intended to fully address the issues raised in this assessment supported by factual evidence.

This evidence may include revised legislation, guidelines, procedures, updated curricula, programme outlines, copies of certificates, invoices from purchase of new equipment, photos of training and new equipment, statistical information or whatever documentation deemed appropriate. For measures not yet formally adopted, a concrete timetable for their adoption should be included in the documentation.

Efforts.

MARINA sent copies of the EC document to stakeholders like associations, schools, training centers, manning agencies, professional groups, subject matter experts to elicit comments.

A Maritime Education and Training Conference, spearheaded by the MARINA in partnership with the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU), was held February 22-23, Midas Hotel, Pasay City.

IAMU is the network of leading maritime universities providing

Capts. Arcellana and Del Prado of SAC education and training (MET) of seafarers for the global shipping industry. There are two members in the country: the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific and the John B Lacson Foundation Maritime University.

IAMU views.

Johan Eliasson, Ljungklinnt lecturer and head of Marine Engineering Program, Chalmers University of Technology, says, “It’s always good to see what other people do and try to share what you do (that are) good. Because if we don’t talk to each other we wouldn’t have better shipping industry in general…I think it’s important that you show EMSA that you invite people with other skills to help and develop.”

Jan Askholm, VP for AcademicsSvendborg Intl Maritime Academy –Curricula Development, adds, “We need more Filipino seafarers because we cannot supply all of those seafarers needed from the Danish maritime education system, we’re just too small, so I have interest also in improving the education of Filipino seafarers.”

Attendees at the MET Conference signed a manifesto of commitment for the improvement of the country’s maritime education and training.

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If we help each other, we can reform education, training and assessment for “the national interest”;

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MARINA seeks understanding, welcomes suggestions to undertake tasks in so many Conventions and laws, in spite shortage on staff;

At the Usapang STCW, stakeholders reiterated action from MARINA on unsettled issues on shipboard training, tonnage of vessels in the domestic, the likes.

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But born seafarers, we shall overcome!

Ban-eg was condescending: “Good news, the board made instructions for MARINA to come up with an action plan for the re-measurement” for vessels in the domestic flag.

Burr the blur.

Ban-eg closing remarks at MET uses a questionable historical assertion that Enrique, wanderlust slave, is a Filipino and the first to circumnavigate the world.

Historians smile wryly as even if true, there was no Filipino nation by then on these islands crossed by local tribes, Chinese traders, Muslim missionaries, wards and warriors of the Madjapahit and Shri-Visayan empires.

Image.

Yet Ban-eg hops and insists, “We were confident of our press release regarding the EMSA findings that we will be able to comply. Why? Because again Filipinos will not give up because in our blood, in our vein runs the blood of a seafarer and we will stand by it. I think this is just a matter of aligning things.

MARINA’s shortfall on action is whitewashed by self-praises on the social digital media, prominently, the FaceBook. Last February 28th, it posted a “MUST READ FOR ALL SEAFARERS” in lyrical Tagalog, saying:

The good news is the Office of the President is more open and receptive regarding the industry. So let’s help together. Don’t you worry and we assure you any action that will be taken is for the welfare, for the benefit of the industry…”

She even kneaded MARINA is not a GOCC which could keep earnings; it can only keep some P15-million it collects on tonnage fees. But this admits MARINA has full control on tonnage and inside scalawags are on impunity to fester.

The two are among presenters at the MET February conference followed by MARINA’s Usapang STCW Forum, March 26, AMOSUP Convention Hall, Intramuros, Manila.

Hundreds of representatives from maritime education and training, manning and shipping agencies, organizations attended and actively participated in the two events.

Jan Askholm, Vlado Francic, Johan Eliasson and Damir Zec of IAMU.

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Fujimaru flanked by Ambassadors Rolando Guevara Alvarado (Panama) and Ritter N. Diaz (Japan) with “K” Line executives

CLASSNK MANAGEMENT SEMINAR & JAPAN DAY

by Coca H. Strobar

ClassNK Chairman and President Koichi Fujiwara welcomed some 160 from maritime education and training institutions and manning agencies to its Prime Management Seminar held February 22 at the Diamond Hotel, Manila.

surviving in economically cold water.

Speakers.

From technological point of view, digitalization and automation is coming to not only navigation itself but also maritime industry.

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Capt. Naoki Saito, ClassNK Manager of Certification Service, Planning Dept.

- Certification Services for Maritime Education and Training

Fujiwara says, “The first seminar was held in 2012 (and) our client based in Philippines has continued to expand. Especially this year, I’m so glad to organize “Japan Day” with Japan Ship Machinery and Equipment Association (JSMEA) to provide the business networking between Japan and Philippines.”

The shipping and maritime industry is struggling with seafarer recruitment and retention. I hope digital transformation will bring some of solutions for crewing and manning problems.

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Mr. Satoru Yanase, ClassNK Manager of Ship Management System Dept. Updated information on MLC, 2006 (MLC Renewal Inspection, with 2014 amendments)

However, I am sure autonomous does not mean directly unmanned and seafarers will be still required for operations and maintenance on board for at least foreseeable future. Then, Filipino seafarers will be also still demanded in the international shipping industry and will play important role for digitalization and automation of operation at sea.”

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Mr. Jonrey M. Calderon, MARINA Maritime Development Supervisor – Maritime Education and Training in the Phil

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Capt. Nicolo Terrei, GM-Rina Academy Phil – Competence Management System

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Capt. Michio Hayashi, Managing Director, Technical Development Group, Japan Marine Science - JMS Simulators for Seafarer’s Training in the Phil

ClassNK opened the Manila office in 1976 and Fujiwara appreciates the support to its business in over 40 years. He assures Country Manager Takeshi Imamura would “continue to keep good communication with all of you.”

Technology.

Fujiwara admits, “The shipping market has been very tough time during last couple of years, especially dry market. The shipbuilding industry and classification societies are also

MARINA group with FSA Pres Dario Alampay and JSMEA officers

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Fujiwara solidly believes, “technological development and human element are like “a pair of wheels” to open the door to next generation of the industry.”

Manalo, Sandoval and Salinas energize the vision.

MARITIME CAREER FOR THE FILIPINO YOUTH

by Eva Tan

Phil Transmarine Carriers (PTC) has strengthened partnership with PartyList Angkla and the Dept. of Education (DepEd) to expand delivery of the Maritime Senior high School (SHS) program.

The initiative is driven by PTC Founder Carlos C. Salinas, himself an ambassador for the Intl Maritime Organization (IMO) to promote maritime careers among the youth.

All hands on deck.

The Phil Center for Advanced Maritime Simulation and Training (PHILCAMSAT) is the training arm of PTC and has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Santiago Syjuco Memorial Integrated Secondary School (SSMISS) in Malabon City to offer the Maritime SHS Program this 2018-2019 School Year.

The MOA was signed between Dr. Fortunato Barcelon Abude, Principal of SSMISS and Philbright L. Ang Ti, Executive Director of PHILCAMSAT. Aside from providing expertise through curriculum inputs, classroom lectures and industry familiarization talks, PHILCAMSAT will also give students hands-on-training on the Center’s worldclass training facilities.

The agreement has the unequivocal support of Cong. Federico Sandoval II (Malabon City), Cong. Jesulito Manalo (Angkla First Nominee), Capt. Ronald Enrile (Angkla Vice Chairman), and DepEd senior officials Grace Velasco Go, Evelyn Callada and Dr. Josefina Pablo.

...maybe for a start let Malabon have a 100 ship captains in the next 10 years and if that happens I will convert it to economics, the per capita income is about US$10,000 @ 100 you multiply that, so how much money will go to Malabon to help pay their taxes…”

PTC Group Management has also CEO Gerardo Borromeo, COO Edgar Milla, Capt Stan Santiago, VP for Crewing and C/E Peter Lugue, AVP for Crewing.

Cong Sandoval: “ … we have been in the maritime for a long, long time... isasakay ko itong mga batang ito sa mga barko naming kung walang masakyan (I will board these youth in our ships if none available )…

Beneficiaries will gain the technical skills for employment on board; already piloted jointly by PTC, Angkla and DepEd in three schools each in Metro Manila, Visayas and Mindanao. The program is now offered in the technicalvocational-livelihood (TVL) track and pre-baccalaureate in more than 60 schools nationwide.

Publicly declared.

DepEd Go: “… really to improve the lives of our learners. That’s first and foremost in the agenda why we have this K-12 program and where senior high school belong… “ Cong. Manalo: “…let this be the beginning of that hope for people that all Filipinos would have a chance to make career in the maritime industry and it is our hope that after the agreement is signed we will be accountable …

We have already many experiences on the job mismatch. How many people who take up maritime degrees, get their diplomas and after that worked as messman, they do not have the money to pay for their OJTs … they end up as baggers …”

Ambassador Salinas: “ (A)s IMO maritime ambassador… I carry with it the responsibility of letting the world understand the incomparable importance and image of global shipping. Through Project Balanghay, we are one step closer to thinking not just a better picture but helping the youth see a wonderful opportunity to realize their dreams built on a life at sea…

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One Team: Bahri & CTi

Feature

Bahri Crew Conference

SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU

by Coca H. Strobar

Some 60 Filipino officers and ratings from Centennial Transmarine (CTi) attended the Bahri Crew Conference held 12-14 March at the AG New World Manila Bay Hotel under the theme, ‘Safety: It Starts With You.’

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Safety Performance and Culture, Michael Bradshaw, Senior Manager, HSEQ and DPA at Bahri Ship Management

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Voyage Management, Maciej Duda, Senior Manager-Bahri Chemicals

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Security and Social Media, Anup Khan, Marine Manager and CSO at Bahri Ship Management

Opened by Almohaned Alshathre, PRManager-Bahri, the event was engaging with the video address by Hisham Al-Khaldi, SVP-Human Resources-Bahri, quoted, “This conference is for you, our family members. Bahri is committed to the professional and personal development of Bahri seafarers from all over the world.

Session on allied sectors included: •

More than just a conference, this event is a milestone in your personal growth within the company… As a member of the OneBahri family, your safety and well-being are very important to us.”

‘Third-Party Inspection, Your Roles and Responsibilities’ by Joseph Assam, Ship Quality Assessor, Senior Ship Inspector & Auditor at Saudi Aramco

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‘National Trends’ by Shajed Khan, Loss Prevention Manager at P&I Club

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‘Risk Assessments’ by Kushry Dhondy of DNVGL

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‘Cultural Awareness’ by Raul Montenegro

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‘Medical Trends, Healthy Lifestyle Aboard and Ashore’ by Dr. Mildred Aze of SuperCare Medical Services

A day before the opening, a warm-up 10-pin bowling tournament was held at Paeng’s Midtown Bowl in Robinson Place, Manila, on 11 March.

Core Bahri senior executives gave presentations:

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Safety Michael Bradshaw was in all of the three days, running a safety video stressing the Goal-Zero approach for accidents. His presentations was spiced with reflective learning exercises to explore root causes and impact of an accident.

Expertise The company has been running its onboard safety training program, which uses consultants from SeaTec UK. The hands-on program involves sailing 7 to 10 days onboard ships, living with the crew, and carrying out on-site safety training. Bradshaw says this will continue and significant investment will be made.

To him, equipment reliability is another big issue. Bahri has three main manufacturers of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). But he insists, “From the safety culture point of view, the technology doesn’t impact that much, it’s all about human behavior.”

Future The future with Bahri is fantastic, with

Solon

two more VLCCs left to be taken to management with Filipino ratings; and possibly ten more by 2019 and 2020.

Bradshaw recalls an instance of frustration when a second officer approached him claiming, “why is there a glass ceiling for Filipinos and why can’t I be a chief officer?”

“There’s no glass ceiling. We’ve got Filipino captains and Filipino chief engineers. You just need the hunger and drive to get there. Have you done your certification requirements to become a chief officer? Bradshaw asked. “ No, was the reply.

“So that’s why you’re not a chief officer. Get your certificates. Do your competence-based development within the company with all the tasks that are required, and you will get promoted as there’s no glass ceiling for any nationality in Bahri.”

Bahri wants its officers promoted “because if they just sit at one rank, they create a blockage in the supply chain of high quality officers.”

University, and the age profile has been reduced quite dramatically. We make sure that we look after these recruits and push to make them senior officers.”

Getting more

“We know what we want. We know where we want to go. That’s the market.

And it’s a market we want to be in, and we want to develop our people to be Bahri’s seafarers and follow the high standards that we have. We’re developing our cadets; we’re developing all ranks actually.”

Fleet Personnel Manager, Mark Buchanan observes: “The number of Filipinos has increased since I came here and we continue to invest a lot of money on training programs they need to develop their skills.

“We’re the biggest tanker owner and operator in the world. We need to make sure that our crew is ready for the expansion. We have been particular about making sure we’re promoting our juniors to retain them in the company.”

Encourage Buchanan says, “When seafarers come, they have all the standard documentation. We try to enhance their knowledge and skills and provide them with value-added training that will benefit not only us but also our crew.”

“And I believe that when you invest in the people, they would want to stay with the company as well. So Bahri is an attractive company for any seafarer. But they need to be enthusiastic, and they need to show the hunger to be successful.

Too often, some of the guys are happy to stay as junior officers for 20 or 30 years.”

Commitment

“We invested more money this year on training than we have in the past, just to build up these skills through college and short courses for all of our officers and practical sessions for ratings.

Bradshaw

“We wanted to reduce the age profile of our junior officers. Many of our junior officers maybe are in their 40s and 50s. We recruited a lot of cadets from DMMA College of Southern Buchanan Philippines in Davao City and John B. Lacson Foundation MaritimePanama flagged: “K” Line’s pure car carrier

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SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU

Participants

Buchanan assures, “We’ll continue to employ Filipino seafarers. Our commitment is to stay here in the Philippines for sure with our 92 vessels and growing. More vessels have been delivered this year. Our fleet will expand hopefully for the next 3-4 years so that we will have 300 vessels.”

“Onboard at any one time there are some 2,200 crew.

Of course, that will continue to expand as new ships join the fleet. In the pool, it may be 3,500, with some are permanently employed while others are on contractual basis. We have 800 Filipinos employed at the moment, and that’s the largest nationality that we have onboard.”

“We have worked with CTi for nearly

ten years and enjoy a good relationship.

They know us very well, and we know them too. They help develop our crew, and we are almost like one big family.”

Just fair As the manning agent in the Phil, CTi is more than just a compliant firm. It rises above the needs of Bahri Ship Management as the largest owner and operator of VLCCs in the world, and the largest owner of chemical tankers in the Middle East.

CTi’s CEO, Captain Jeffrey Solon, pledges: “We continuously support the endeavors of our principals to meet the highest standards. Captain Solon sees this as mandatory, not just

CTi CEO Solon & Bahri Officers with Bowling Champions

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a technique to get business. The vision is to be at cutting-edge of expertise and professionalism, while the mission is to continuously fuel efforts to maintain and upgrade what is inculcated in everyone’s safety at the frontier.”

Bahri is an icon in innovative transport solutions contributing to the Saudi Vision 2030 - that of connecting economies, sharing prosperity, and driving excellence in global logistics services.

Honors from MPC Pres Ampuan, EVP Gabriel Jimenez

MONTANO IN MPC-NAGA

by Coca H. Strobar

A perked-up and more meaningful Cesar Montano shared time and thoughts with aspiring youth prepared in their career future by Bicol’s preeminent marine institution.

The multi-awarded actor and movie director was guest of honor and principal speaker at the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges (MPC) 44th Commencement Exercises and First Senior High School Graduation Rites at MPC Quadrangle, Panganiban Drive, Naga City, April 7th.

Montano is currently COO of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), an attached agency of the Dept. of Tourism which promotes Philippine MICE destinations, world-class tourist spots that offer high-value experience.

With the iconic film major was Ms. Sophie Rankin, an international model and actress.

Montano introduced her as Ambassador for Tourism, honorific but our only British “ambassador” being Ms. Global England of 2015.

Tourism.

Montano underscored the edge of graduates living in an archipelago as natural for tourism which cast opportunities in almost all sectors: land-sea-air transportation, goods and services, range unlimited.

He recently launched Sine Turismo, promoting eight Filipino film classics showcasing beautiful spots in the country; timely and supplements two senate bills aimed to enhance tourism.

Senator Sonny Angara filed Bill 1330 for “a Framework for Film and Television Tourism in the Philippines, Marketing the Industry Globally and Providing Employment.”

Senator Grace Poe filed Bill 1687 “Institutionalizing Sustainable Coastal Tourism, Providing Mechanisms” and fund the effort.

Opportunities.

Montano observes MPC graduates have spanned the country and the globe, its placement rate for new graduates in their career fields consistently surpasses the national standard. With this fact, he egged the graduates, “don’t hesitate to use the network that is available to you as you advance in your careers.”

He was also impressed most of the graduates have jobs already waiting for them. Additionally, he invited them to consider working in his office which is so under-staffed.

From pragmatics, Montano shifted to principles, “Remember that your future will always be a work in progress so that you can learn and grow with each new experience.

Wherever your career path takes you… remember that you now are keepers of your college heritage. A heritage that began 44 years ago. You have made your professors and your parents proud.

Now go out into the world and make yourself prouder than you are today. Make the community proud. Make us all proud of the Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges.”

The audience was deeply enamored with Montano’s advocacy, spiced with Biblical verses that illuminate further his appeal to “Make our Great God in Heaven proud.”

Bonding.

Judge Alfredo Ampuan was the one who invited Montano to be the commencement speaker; the judge, husband of MPC-Naga President Marilissa J. Ampuan.

Dinner was served at the Mariners’ Tourism and Hotel Institute, fully-owned by MPC. There were informal discussions among school officials, other guests and Montano on strengthening tourism through maritime.

The live band was a welcome distraction, rolling hair down and filling the room with songs and attempts, the dance floor with happy feet --- the evening fulfilling, bonding each to the other in meaningful friendship and profession.

Career.

Montano took his BA-Mass Communications/ Major in Broadcasting from the Lyceum of the Phil University which has cited him as Most Successful and Distinguished Alumnus.

He served at the Optical Media Board, presidential consultant on anti-smuggling, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Special Envoy for Art, Culture and Film and Digital (2009), Chairman of the Bohol Film Development Organization since 2008.

Montano has been president of his CM Films since 2004, based in Quezon City producing movies for local and world releases.

From 2005 to 2011, he was president of Panaghoy Children, an NGO involved in medical missions. He was also a UNESCO Commissioner from 2004 to 2007 which reflects dedication to the welfare of children.

Diplomats, stakeholders and other guests MARINO WORLD

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Education

The first Family Awardee, Palmiano

MPCF to Graduates

BE AGENTS OF CHANGE

by Coca H. Strobar

Sustaining primacy in maritime education in the Bicol region, the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) echoed one theme in its commencement exercises: “Competent Graduates: As Agents of Change Towards National Aspirations for Transformation.”

This was at the MPCF-Canaman 34th Ring-Hop Ceremony and Commencement Exercises at the JCJ Multi-Purpose Complex, Canaman, Camarines Sur, April 3rd.

the poor and illiterate, by loving our own country. You must aspire for change, a change for the betterment of our society.”

Powerful.

Ms. Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, MPCFLC President, expressed her gratitude to parents and for choosing Mariners while “… we look forward to these meaningful changes that bring about quality life not only to your own families but in your communities as well.

Transform.

Please come back to Mariners and your community. Ready to bring innovation more and new ideas of growing the community whether you chose to be a maritime officer, be principled and incorruptible customs brokers and logistics officers and hospitality managers.

Dr. Marilissa Jimenez-Ampuan, MPCFCanaman Pres. says, “I cherish how we started to develop this promising campus because we had a vision to produce excellent and competent professionals engaged in maritime services. And today said vision has come into existence… manifested by all of you” (the graduates).

Our Founder believed that the education is the most powerful weapon to use to change the world and look now at how thousands of lives here in this Bicol region have changed because of Mariners. Let this change be selfless to move our community and let this change start from us.”

Transform your community by helping

San Pedro replaced Commo. Dante

And replicated at the MPCF-Legazpi 32nd Ring-Hop Ceremony and Commencement Exercises at the JCJ Gymnasium, Legazpi City, Albay, April 10th.

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La. Jimenez, now Chairman of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), a cabinet agency of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte.

Also present were other members of the MPCF Board of Trustees as Dr. Gabriel La. Jimenez, Ms. Evita La. Jimenez and Ms. Nimpa V. Jimenez.

Passage.

Mr. Akihiro Kashiwagi, Pres. of Misuga Management Services and GM of Misuga Kaiun-Phil was the keynote speaker at MPCF-Canaman Ring-hop ceremony and at the Commencement Exercises at MPCF-Legazpi.

Kashiwagi waxed poetical: “And moving forward, when today has passed, next to the gratitude in your heart, look back with confidence and conviction in your mind. Confidence with all the knowledge you have gained from your education here at MPCF. And conviction that no matter how hard it may seem, during difficult moments, that you will have the humility to accept mistakes and learn from it. You have a conviction of choice to push forward, to become excellent, be a role model, be a

good officer. You have done it before so you can do it again.

Just look back to this day, this day of remembrance, your rite of passage – when your heart was filled with inspiration.”

Safety.

Capt. Jun Funayama, GM- QHSE Dept/ Misuga Kaiun was keynote speaker at the MPCF-Canaman Commencement Exercises.

Funayama was pragmatic: “Shipping is the lifeblood of the global economy carrying 90% international trade. More than 70% of crewmembers of Japanese shipping companies vessels are Filipinos and the demand is still increasing.”

He underscores the company slogan, “Come home safely, come home with a full smile but no injuries, no sickness…

Please watch your steps onboard for your safety.”

Teaming.

The tripartite partnership Agreement between MPCF-Canaman, Misuga Kaiun (Japanese principal) and Maine Marine-Phil (MMP, manning agent) was forged on July 13, 2009. This greatly contributed to the MPCF mission to equip students with world-class on-board shipping facilities and to provide a higher education.

Misuga and MMP have continuously provided assistance to MPCF-Canaman in ensuring quality education, developing students backed by scholarship

Traditional Pouring of the Seven Seas: Misuga Capt. Kashiwagi and MPCF-LC San Pedro programs.

With Kashiwagi and Funayama are Misuga and MMP officers led by C/E Arnel Gonzales, Deputy General Manager, Misuga Management Services.

They are also joined by representatives of other MPCF partners like TCM Tsakos Maritime Phils, Veritas Maritime, Marlow Navigation, Multinational Maritime and Archipelago Philippine Ferries.

Around 2,000 graduated at MPCF Canaman and Legazpi, including those who completed academic requirements and 97 senior high school students.

Courses.

MPCF-Canaman offers degree courses like BSNAME, BSMT,BSMarE, BSME, BS Electrical/Electronics, and bridging programs thereof and the Enhanced Support Level Program like ESLPMD, ESLPME and Cruise Ship Management Course (CSMC) Seaman’s Culinary Course (SCC) It has five Track offerings: Senior Hi Academic-Pre-Baccalaureate Maritime

Presidential awardee Mika H. Ramos, 2018 Ten Outstanding Students of Bicol (TOSB), and BSNAME graduate

(PBM), Academic-Science Tech Engineering Mathematics (STEM), the tech-voc-livelihood (TVL) on maritime, home economics and SMAW. MPCF-LC has six degree courses: BSMT, BSMarE, BSME, BSCA, BSHM, BSHRM and the Steward Rating Certificate (SRC).

Award.

The first Family of the Year Award was given to the Rogelio Palmiano Jr. Family of Camalig, Albay. From the father to the youngest child, the Palmiano family has chosen MPCF-Legazpi for education, solid faith Mariners-Legazpi is a gateway towards success.

In 1991 Palmiano Jr. graduated as Associate in Marine Engineering and for 25 years has worked as a motorman in tankers and offshore vessels to be a good provider to his family.

Richard, the eldest son, is a Gold Anchor awardee, graduated BSMT 2008 at Mariners-LC and now Third Officer at Ventis Maritime. Second sibling Cristal Joy, graduated BSHRM with academic honors from MPCF-LC and now works as First Assistant Manager in Matnog, Sorsogon. She is married to a businessman, also an alumnus of MPCF-LC. Mary Jane, is an academic awardee in BS in Customs Administration in 2012 and is now a licensed customs broker.

She is married to a 2nd Engineer, again an alumnus of MPCF-LC. Michael John, the youngest, is a BSMT holder, an academic awardee of Batch 2018.

He already passed the qualifying exams given by the NS United Marine.

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OUR POINTS OF VIEW “THE CHIP & THE OLD BLOCK”

RADM ADONIS B. DONATO & MS. CHERI MARIE D. VILLASIN Chairman & Vice Chair, OSM Maritime Services

OSM FOUNDATION REACHES IFUGAO

The OSM-ADF (OSM Adonis Donato Foundation) team went up the mist and cloud of Ifugao of the Cordillera mountain range “to walk the talk” like giving scholarships and perks for poor but deserving students of the community.

Banaue has two high schools, Banaue NHS (252 students from Grade 7- Grade 12); Gohang NHS (325 students from Grade 7Grade 12).

healing by the OSM President Mailyn P. Borillo, a true advocate of holistic methods.

Intense.

For the first time.

On October 7, 2017, Grade 12 students from Banaue NHS and Gohang NHS were given examinations and 25 passers qualified for the second phase, a one-on-one interview with the OSM-ADF team. From the batch, five be granted OSM scholarships.

There was clear weather as the team travelled to Banaue and Mayoyao, October 9 and 10th. Some 621 students received OSM school bags, shirts, educational toys and sports stuffs. They were from five public schools: Ducligan Elementary, Chaya Primary, Mayban Primary, Balangbang Elementary and Cambulo Elementary.

And with reason: Ifugao’s 32.5% poverty incidence in 2015; its Banaue and Mayoyao are 30.8% and 34.3% in 2012. Hence, OSMADF has decided to grant the two towns its two main activities as the Recruitment of OSM Scholars (Examinations & Interview day of Grade 12 students) and Initiatives for Social Development (ISD).

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On the side, teachers from the two schools received valuable and practical information from the free health seminar on natural

Five schools.

Reach-out.

On March 3, 2018, the OSM-ADF returned to

Deckhand, John Manginsay, Dr. Esguerra

meet the five OSM scholars and their parents for orientation on the program policies and procedures. There were exchange talks on career choices, preparing for college, self and social responsibility. The wards enjoined the viewpoints of the resource persons, Ma. Joanna T. Ańonuevo and Marte Rodriguez.

Afterwards, the five scholars received certificates of scholarship: Bryan B. Binalet, Febie L. Lingdis, Joan D. Olsim, Kimberlie P. Maggod, and Melody G. Lucca are now formal members of the OSM family.

And more.

Both students and parents received OSMAD Foundation shirts, a simple token for a corporate gesture that is a defining for the beneficiaries, complete the scholar kit.

Even OSM-Manila employees became part of the commitment as they donated to both Gohang and Banaue National High Schools electric fans, installed in the classrooms. OSM employee-volunteers like Marte Pocholo Lacson, Francisco Laddaran, and Alvin Acero, Jr., pitched in more like academic reference books and a set of computer & printer for Banaue NHS. OSM-ADF. As the cliché goes, there is “no mountain too high nor a valley too deep” in sharing opportunities to the disadvantaged --more so as a corporate policy to share the goodwill, to make a difference to be truly, ALL ABOUT PEOPLE!

Soon a legend: Mariners from the mountain

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NORDIC MEDICAL OPEN TO OSM

Guests and staff with Nordic Chamber of Commerce-Phil, Brith Mejlby at the NMC inaugural.

Nordic Medical Clinic (NMC) now attends to OSM Maritime Services seafarers, as its first customer, after its inauguration on January 24th at Daniel Building, Malate, Manila.

The clinic has modern facilities like ECG, stress test, audio/optical, dental, psychological, extraction, laboratory, drug testing, x-ray and male physical examinations.

by Eva Tan

consultation, even conversation. Lubaton leverages on the PEME system, believing educating seafarers makes the difference. He explains on nutrition, relations, sleep, safety, productive health as possible major causes of ailments.

Services.

results; in turn, automatically banked on the system. It normally takes six hours for clearance. Those spotted with abnormalities are asked to return for referral to appropriate specialists.

Complete.

Dr. Huerte adds, “Our clinic has partner specialists on all specialties like from the Manila Doctors Hospital with a Memo of Agreement (MOA) for the hospital to accommodate our patients.

Drug testing is a requirement of Government, not only on the procedure but also of the integration of the clinic system with that of the Dept. of Health (DOH) and the Natl.

Bureau of Investigation (NBI) of the Dept. of Justice.

Holistic.

Results are issued within the day of examinations since some of these seafarers must travel back to their provinces.

The integration of systems is the most difficult and expensive part of licensing the clinic.

Dr. Didoy Lubaton, specialized on natural and holistic treatment, is available Wednesday mornings at NMC for a one-on-one

The clinic uses digital equipment for more accuracy, faster prognosis, with no human intervention to maintain integrity of the

But NMC has passed and is complete with the licenses. In fact, NMC now seeks accreditation from other flags or States.

NMC Medical Director, Dr. Margarita Huerte says, “Our pre-employment medical examination (PEME) not only offers executive checkup but holistic wellness approach to the seafarers.

CEBU GEMS REPEATS CASH GRANT For the third consecutive year, Cebu Gems Innovation and Career Development Center (Cebu Gems) has awarded to PMMA MultiSports a cash grant of P350,000 for the competitive growth of sports poorly practiced in the country.

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gu

Jubillant on PMMA MultiSports start-up honors

These are triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon basically with swimming, cycling and running. These are also major components of the IronMan, worldrenowned endurance sports.

The sponsorship contract was signed February 26 by Cebu Gems VP Neil Francisco and PMMA MultiSports’

President Levy Capayas, also Managing Director of Epsilon Maritime Services.

Capt. Capayas shared with Cebu Gems the trophy for winning third in Best Team Performance at the 5I50 Triathlon held at Bellevue Resort, Panglao Island, Bohol, November 5, 2017.

“K” Line Kadono, DOLE Bello, Ambassadors Haneda and Alvarad and DOTr Judan participate in Kagami Biraki, Japanese ceremony of “Opening the Mirror” (from an abstinence) or, also, “Breaking of the Mochi” which refers to the opening of a Kagami mocha, a cask of sake. It is done on January 11th, always on odd-numbered days to bring good luck.

OCEAN BREEZE OPENS

by Coca H. Strobar

The Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” Line) has inaugurated a major building project in the Philippines, both Phase 1 and 2 on schedule, as designed and at cost. Senior national officials and executives from Japan led the March 2 ceremonies, assisted by Manila affiliates, stakeholders and regulators.

Phase 2 is officially, Ocean Breeze; the ceremonial ribbon-cutting by select officials led by Pasay Rep. Imelda CalixtoRubiano, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Maritime U/Sec Felipe Judan, Japanese Ambassador to the Phil. Koji Haneda and “K” Line Senior Managing Executive Officer Eiji Kadono.

Commitment.

Sec. Bello notes, “… the vision for the Japan “K” Line and KLMA- Phil has come into reality – a building our Filipino seafarers can call home … with an array of services towards their professional development.”

Speaking on behalf of “K” Line President Eizo Murakami, Capt. Kadono says

the new building can now provide comfortable accommodation to almost 300 seafarers while attending training courses at KLMA-Phil. (and may stay before and after onboard assignment on “K” Line fleet).

Kadono made clear, “We are confident that Ocean Breeze will be a new symbol for our company commitment and confidence with our business in the Philippines.”

Implications.

Reflecting the import of the rites, major personalities were also present like Panama Ambassador Rolando Guevara Alvarado, officials of the Phil-Japan Manning Consultative Council and the Intl Mariners Management Association of Japan, among maritime executives, education leaders and government officials.

Observers watched for two implications: (a) courageous expansion here while “K” Line has downsized global operations and (b) solidifies commitment to

make the Philippines a hub of regional operations.

A third significance are top-grade details, none of patchwork nor cosmetics: seafarers’ curricula and facilities for skill-based learning with cutting-edge equipment closely replicating shipboard realities. Amenities include larger and modern workstations, library and open study lounge, more and clean dorms and a full-service clinic directed by a medical professional.

Legacy.

The impressive approach is completed by a Marino World “K” Line Edition, putting into perspective decades of global operations, in preparation for the Group Centennial Year in 2019.

The edition is a holistic evaluation of the challenges and triumphs, identifying the risk-takers, the hands on the bridge, the leading minds on the charters of the seas and weathers, in compliance with regulators and over the competitions.

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Ms. Lyn Bacani Its pun and funny when one is asked to speak for writing well. But expected in these days of multi-tasking: singers can’t just sing but must also dance, beauty pageant titlists must be gorgeous and scholars, too --- politicians must serve with the right and dole out with the left.

Ms. Lyn Bacani is no exception. While her strength is on publishing and essentially maritime-related, she is surprised on being asked on things beyond. But for fear of being tagged snobbish, she consented to verbally express her opinions.

Equality.

She was a panelist on Pinay Power, a project of the Junior Chamber Intl -Paranaque Asinderas (JCI-Paranaque, a non-profit leadership organization encouraging young people to actively participate in social change).

This is in celebration of the Intl Women’s Day, a strong gender-equality project within JCI tenets and UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly No. 5 (gender equality), to promote awareness, encourage development and empowerment for the modern Filipina.

The Rotary Club of Makati Buendia (RCMB) agreed to co-host Pinay Power, a panel discussion titled “SHEroes: Women of Impact” last March 8th, at the Tiara Oriental Hotel, Makati City, on

LEVEL-UP, challenges faced by outstanding Filipinas from various disciplines and endeavors.

Panelists.

Among considered were Judiciary, then Judge Marjorie Uyengco-Nolasco; Public Service, Atty. Kaye Danica Catapang; Education, Atty. Giffany Tongohan; Social Change, Ms. Ma. Khristine Fullante; Business, Ms. Ana Angelica Ricafrente; Mass Media, Ms. Lyn Bacani; Engineering, Engr. Sheena Cari-Roxas; Social Media Management, Ms. Missy Monterubio; Medicine, Dr. Loraine Adeline B. Nicolas and Maritime, Ms. Abegail Vera-Albis.

Moderator was President Mariel Josine N. David, of JCI-Paranaque Asinderas not to mean salt vendors but, symbolically, the Biblical “salt of the earth” which ushers the best in people.

Her brand.

Given crisps yet surgical answers, some observers believe Ms. Bacani seems a fair example of a modern Filipina conceived by the panelists: Centennial in ethics and etiquette, Millennial in dreams and daring.

A sampling is her reliance on individual discernment to guard against fake news.

OMG!

by Ligaya Caban

Bacani expects this thinking in a modern Filipina: empowered on her chosen field, confident to pursue things, excels because “she’s knowledgeable and skillful.”

Broadcast.

Cong. John Bertiz was phone-patched with Bacani at Usapang Pagbabago radio program with livestreaming, over DZEC of Eagle Broadcasting last Valentine, 2018.

They tackled maritime issues, Cong. Bertiz pitching for a Dept. of Migration and Development with his bill already filed at the Lower House of Congress.

Bacani pictured a wider spread, pointing natural advantages of an archipelagic State blessed with one of the richest biodiversity on its land and in its waters.

She reviewed opportunities with these resources.

Being a journalist, it is habitual for Bacani to be non-judgmental. Yet, between her lines, one could mine policy nuggets for Government policies and practices for stakeholders.

Small wonder her news magazine, Marino World, has gained adherence from decision-makers in the industry, respected by world experts as a reliable barometer on Phil maritime policies and problems, realities and projections.

Full project support Panelists and RCMB members with 2007 JCI World Pres. Scott Greenlee

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F.R. CHOWDHURY

SHIPPING : CHANGING PATTERN & PHASE Mr. Chowdhury (<fazlu.chowdhury@btin) is London-based, recognized maritime expert and had been, among others, Commandant of the Bangladesh Maritime Academy, Director-General of the Bangladesh Dept. of Shipping, UK-MCA Deputy Chief Examiner and Maritime Administrator of Gibraltar.

Shipping is a complex and capital intensive business, major part owned and operated by the western world.

After World War II, the largest merchant fleet was under British flag with large operators under USA, Norway, Greece, Germany, Japan and Russian flags. There was a close link among ship-owners, crew and flag; a Greek ship has Greek owners and majority of the crew from Greece.

Cheaper.

British ships started to employ cheaper ratings from former colonies like India, Pakistan, Nigeria and Jamaica. Shipowners under other flags followed.

Where the Flag administration insisted employment of its own seafarers, the ship-owners change flag to get cheaper cost of operation. Some countries ended up with more ships in their registry, far in excess of trade requirements.

This was the first stage of open registers.

Not all countries of Asia and Africa have the means to buy and operate ships. Thus, they make their flags as open registers and foreign ship-owners filled in the gaps. Competition grew amongst open registers. Some reduced taxes to attract more ships. Some even introduced tonnage tax removing the need for corporate audit and tax return. Shipowners have less head-ache with more convenience. Most open registers allowed organizations/classification societies to conduct statutory survey and certification.

More.

Another development occurred, that of labour supplying or crew supplying.

Air travel was now possible for plane load of crew to join or leave ships. This initiated competition for crew training and manning of ships. When the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas 1982

(UNCLOS-82) entered into force, landlocked countries took the opportunity to develop their own shipping. All these made the international shipping what it is today, broke monopolies, good for shipping provided standards are maintained.

But some countries are putting flag and register with the highest bidder. They have isolated the registry from rest of the duties and functions of the administration.

IMO and ILO are not international governments but UN agencies for international standards developed from conventions and protocols. It is the member states that accept and implement the standards. A ship in its registry comes under the jurisdiction of the Flag administration to ensure that the vessel complies with convention standard.

Sovereignty.

A State must retain its sovereign rights.

It cannot be sold for money. It is not a business. National airlines may be privatised, even airports. But the department of civil aviation is an integral part of the government and that cannot be privatised. During last Assembly of the IMO, delegates from Mongolia, Cambodia, Comoros and Palau were asking each other on ships they have in their registers. They have no clue because they sold to the highest bidder. Some briefcase businessmen are playing around with their name and fame. These operators are not parties to any international treaties.

The only function they have is to register ship and make money “invested” to corrupt politicians to get the licence. This is what we call flag of convenience (FoC).

Stop the sale.

Good ship-owners and operators would never register with them, only those engaged in illegal trade and carry

contraband. When ships are abandoned, seafarers are left without salary nor food. Good thing Church institutes and voluntary organizations offer helping hands. These are repeated because such registers shelter to crooks.

The world community must find legal and procedural means to stop this “sale of flag to the highest bidder”. Administration of a flag state must be within the country operated by an agency of government, with full regard to treaties and conventions signed. Registry of ships is just one of many functions of the administration and it cannot be separated out.

It is time that experts in IMO and ILO should concentrate expertise to find a way forward – perhaps draft one final comprehensive convention on this matter.

As an interim measure I would request all banks, insurance and other financial institutions to stop providing all services to ships operating under those fraudulent flags.

Not against but for.

This article is by no means against the open registers. It is for individual state and government to decide whether to operate a traditional closed or open register. No single solution will suit all. States that do not have the expertise may hire services of experts for gradual transfer of technology.

But putting own flag on auction must stop. It is polluting the world of shipping and causing more miseries to seafarers.

I would like to call up on ITF, Church institutes, Human Rights at Sea and others to join hands --- stop the briefcase businessmen to operate registers from outside the country.

London, 14-March-2018.

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NMP SHARES RESEARCHES NMP officials Ayaso, Bernardes, Macadawan and Laguitan

The Maritime Research and Development Division (MRDD) of the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has led a Stakeholders and Media Forum last March 22nd at the Bayleaf, Intramuros, Manila.

Three 2017 researches were presented: Skills Gaps Analysis of Maritime Faculty in Philippine Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs); Gender Sensitivity Training for Seafarers (GSTS) Course: A Program Evaluation; and Responding to the Filipino Seafarers’ Training Requirements

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in the STCW 2010 Manila Amendments: Challenges and Opportunities.

Guest speaker was Labor U/Sec Jacinto V. Paras who shared, “Going far simply can’t be done without people to support you.” He emphasized the need to sustain collaboration among maritime stakeholders to the ever growing needs of the Filipino seafarers.

NMP holds to its Strategic Plan 2018-2020 and vision as “The Philippines’ leader in maritime training, including e-learning and research.”

This was presented during the forum for further inputs from the stakeholders, a way

also of validating viability.

A media forum followed in the afternoon with Executive Director III, Dr. Romulo Bernardes; Deputy Executive Director III, Ms. Mayla Macadawan; Head of the Maritime Training and Assessment Division, Capt. Emmanuel Jesus Laguitan and Head of Maritime Research and Development Division, Ms. Grace Marie Ayaso.

On top of research, NMP continues to upgrade facilities and provide maritime trainings required by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch keeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention, including valueadding courses to improve Filipino seafarers competitiveness for global employment.

Pastrana and Land Bank Pres-CEO Alex Buenaventura with other senior APFC and Land Bank officers.

MAJOR BANKS SUPPORT FASTCAT BUILD-UP

by Eva Tan

FastCat steams up ahead with its fleet build-up to 30 vessels by 2020 from its current 12, basically catamaran-type, roll-on/roll-off ferries.

Two of the Philippine major banks, RCBC and Land Bank, have signed loan contracts for the modernization program of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp (APFC), operator of FastCat. Rizal Commercial Banking Corp (RCBC) will provide P1.1-billion for three vessels in an agreement with APFC signed last February 17th.

Landbank of the Philippines (Landbank) has guaranteed P1.7-billion to underwrite five vessels in a contract signed April 2nd.

The major financial support of these banks to APFC is a very clear approval of its corporate health, the viability and sunshine opportunity in its business to provide a vital maritime link between the 7,107 islands of the Philippines.

The bankers also signal calculated optimism, given APFC is relatively a newcomer organized just in 2002 but already trusted with a large loan portfolio to continue facilitate the economical movement of people and goods with safe, fast and convenient ferry service to the islands using state-of-the-art RoRo vessels designed specifically for Philippine water conditions.

APFC Pres. Christopher Pastrana is looked-up in the maritime industry, now president of the Philippine Interisland Shipping Association (PISA) established in 1977 as a broad cross-section of the local maritime industry, with domestic shipowners and shipping support providers.

He extrapolates: About 40 million Filipinos ride ships, about 100-140 million tons of domestic cargos are moved.

APFC 2020 target is just the first batch of the first phase --- serving only 15% of the market. “The market is so big.

The market is enough for everybody to modernize.”

Pastrana is glad banks “believe that modernization program in our maritime industry is long overdue and should be supported... I believe this is just a start, this is just the beginning. I’m sure they will open up to other shipowners.”

He observes the average age of ships here is 35 years old; hence, the huge potential for growth. Matching this with the Government’s Build Build infrastructure program and focused on the development of Mindanao, “we are going to reach the farthermost part of the Philippines through ferries and buses and terminals.”

RCBC EVP Michael de Jesus adds, “Nothing but positive. It’s a growing business, it’s a growing industry, so we’re very comfortable.”

Land Bank SVP-Agriculture and Development Joselito Gutierrez is bullish, “This is actually the priority sector that we needed to support not only because it’s vital in transport sector but because it is necessary in developing other sectors.”

APFC Chair Dennis Trajano and Pres Pastrana with RCBC EVP De Jesus and SVP Angela Tinio.

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SUBIC FROM BORACAY Manila, last February 20th.

Happy faces of Chairman Ernesto “Judes” Echauz, Standard Insurance and Pres. of Phil Sailing Association (PSA); Jun Avecilla, Chairman of Organizing Committee; Cong. Ricky Sandoval, Chairman Emeritus of Subic Sailing Club; Jerry Rollin, PSA VP and Principal Race Director.

SBBR replaced the Subic-Boracay race after ten years due to serious environmental issues, comments Echauz as they endorse Pres. Duterte plans on healing Boracay.

Photo was taken at the media briefing for the Standard Insurance Around Verde Island Passage Race (SBBR) held in Dad’s World Buffet in Padre Faura street,

“Maybe there is no better time to focus on Boracay’s rehabilitation than now,” says Zed Avecilla, Executive Director of Subic Sailing Club (SSC).

Verde Island is a strait that separates the island of Luzon and Mindoro, connecting the West Phil Sea with the Tayabas Bay in Quezon and Sibuyan Sea, Romblon. The passage sits at the center of the Coral Triangle, known as the “amazon of the seas.”

It is extremely rich in marine biodiversity, the riches area in the coral triangle and scientifically-backed as the “center of the center of marine biodiversity”.

The Commodore’s Cup Regatta 2018, was also organized by SSC with starter at the Beachfront of the Lighthouse Marina

COMPENSATION COMMISSION INFO DRIVE The Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC) has launched an information campaign for higher public awareness on benefits it offers to workers sustaining work-related injuries or diseases.

The initial salvo was through a television commercial placement as ECC hosted the Development Communication Coordinating Network (DevComNet) meet held at the Novotel- Manila Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City, March 19th.

DevComNet is an exchange network of information units of government line agencies, departments, owned and controlled corporations and financial institutions. The network aligns communication efforts for consistent messaging and coordinates development activities.

The initial tv commercial was co-produced by ECC with the Phil Information Agency (PIA).

Noble purpose.

While at Kuwait as part of an official mission, ECC Chairman-Designate Ciriaco A. Lagunzad III issued a statement read at the meet by Exec Director Stella Zipagan-Banawis.

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ECC has been around since 1975, providing benefits and services to workers from both the private and the public sectors who suffered from work-related injuries or diseases.

ECC Exec Director Banawis

Though the program has such a noble purpose, Labor U/ Sec Lagunzad observes “… it was rather unfortunate that only a few knew about it. It has become one of the challenges in the Commission (ECC) to increase and strengthen the Filipino workers awareness.”

•

Review EC claims disapproved by the GSIS/SSS

•

Initiate policies and programs towards adequate OHS and accident prevention in the working environment

Overview.

Tract.

Banawis presented an overview of the Employees’ Compensation Program (ECP): provide employees and their families with income benefits, medical and other benefits in the event of workconnected sickness, injury or death including benefits for loss of income, medical, carer’s allowance and for rehabilitation services.

ECC is now on its 43rd year. From 1975 to September, 2017, ECC has paid over 6 million claims, granted P38-billion in benefits while collecting contributions to P62-billion. Assets build-up totals to P60.22-billion, benefit outlays mostly coming from investment income.

ECP has three main functions: •

Formulate policies and guidelines for the improvement of the EC program

ECC provides policy guidelines to both SSS and GSIS on how to invest.

ECC covers all compulsory members of GSIS and SSS, including seafarers.

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