Marino world oct dec 2014 digital edition

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VOLUME IX NO.3 ISSN 1908-0972

PHP120

OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2014

MARINO WORLD

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EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Editorial Consultant

Creative Director

Lyn Bacani

B. Cortes Lagac

Jhon Henson Ong

Content Critique

Legal Counsel

Commo. Dante Jimenez

Atty. Manuel Obedoza

News and Feature Writers Eva Tan

Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors Ms. Merle San Pedro

RAdm. Adonis Donato

Atty. Cristina Beltran

International Correspondents F R Chowdhury

Mark Millar

Photographer

Circulation

Royette De Paz

Joana Marie Tud

EDITORIAL OFFICE Address 1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines

Email marinoworldpublication@gmail.com

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Mobile

(632) 521-3633

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

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Publisher’s Note

DUMB AND DUMBER The current audit by the European Union’s EMSA of Philippine maritime policies and facilities have warped into making suspect work abilities of Pinoy seafarers.

Yet a little reminder: the stiff upper lip is no longer politically correct as the sun now sets in the British Empire. More cautiously, the world is shifting now to Asia --- and we don’t have tails nor forked tongues.

While debatable in terms of State Sovereignty, EMSA has been given ‘open door’ access by the Aquino Government into the guts and gumption of maritime Philippines. Both parties appear happy on the process of ‘dem dictating, us followin’.

This sad scenario seems typical of the “worldview” of some global decision makers. They can easily see the current of profits but not as much the crosscurrent of cultural diversity.

This recalls the mindset of the First Secretary of the British embassy in the Manila. In explaining how good the British ban on her citizens from riding local ferries, he goes on a litany on how bad is the local maritime industry. He must have untarnished narcissism on the greatness of his oratory that after the boycott and the bashing, the British Flag will wave proud and shining before awed natives.

Asia’s differences are borne of its own culture, not just reactions to that of the West. We don’t have stone houses but bamboo lean-tos because we have no winter. We don’t conquer because we are content with our pieces of land and bounty. We bear an ecumenical perspective in the differences of our worship and rituals of our tribes; unlike Christianity that while preaching love for neighbors is locked for centuries and more in mortal combat with Islamic fundamentalists.

As coup d’ grace, he slings into the faces of Metro Manila journalists that 80,000 Filipino seamen equals 80,000 potential risks. Of course, he now claims quoted out of context. Of course, any opinion contrary to his is out of context. But of course, My Lord.

Thus, it is more noblesse to shift crosshair from faulting Filipino seafarers into reforming relations between shipping capital and maritime labor.

Let us not dictate ideals for labor yet complacent on shortfalls of the moneyed.

It takes two to tango; don’t change the steps without changing the music.

We believe in the capabilities of Filipino seafarers, from rowing fragile barangays on our archipelagic waters to working on supertankers, even taking command on deck or engine.

Let us not camouflage economic leverages with reforms of techniques and trainings. Pinoy mariners have elevated themselves as a major block of merchant marine professionals on din of sweat and dedication. Even saving ship and crew from Somali pirates as it was with Capt. Abelardo M. Pacheco of MT Stolt Strength. Even beyond the call of duty as their heroics on the sinking of the giant cruise liner, Costa Concordia.

Our Filipino seafarers have saline blood for blue waters. They can navigate by the stars; more so with sextant, comparative trainings and immersion to cutting-edge maritime technologies. They could work by the book, precise on your instructions.

Or react with creative boldness to any crisis.

It is dumber to think they are dumb.

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Cover Story

OSM DOF Light Hope in Javier

Government

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EMSA UPDATE

Health MARCDOC at the Forefront

Education MARINERS Pioneers in Jr. College

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Shipbuilding SONAME Drives for Reforms

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Content

ABOUT THE COVER Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

Not just a facet of corporate goodwill. Much more the laughter of children proclaims both the goodness of the donors and the will to struggle for a better life by the recipient community.

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Government

DOTC Sec. Abaya

EMSA UPDATE

ALL’S WELL BUT FOR A BRITON

by Coca H. Strobar

T

he Philippine Government is optimistic concerns of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) will eventually be addressed.

“(I)t’s all positive, they appreciate the direction. They expect more, ang mahalaga (important) we’re pushing forward and they feel positive because they know meron tayong ginagawa (we are doing something)… I easily see eventual resolution of this problem,” Abaya tells Marino World , Oct. 16th.

The DOTC Secretary’s optimism is based on the verbal report given to him by MARINA Administrator Max Mejia, Jr. which the former relayed immediately to the President.

When asked for more, Mejia refuses to provide further details of the audit. But he underscores to “continue the reforms.” He also refutes report of United Filipino Seafarers President Nelson Ramirez that the last audit was a failure.

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Fly-in-the-ointment.

More arrows.

On October 31st, however, negative news was carried by a leading Manila broadsheet: “Pinoy seafarers face ban in UK, Europe.”

Ramirez, an arch critic of MARINA, was quick to pick-upon Lysaght potshots by hammering (in

British Embassy in the Philippines First Secretary Steph Lysaght was quoted during an information session on the latest Travel Advisory issued by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

“We have an issue at the moment with the Philippine government where we are engaging them on the issue of training seafarers.

We do get questions about why we put the same here, but the section says because the ships keep sinking,” says Lysaght.

“There’s 80,000 Filipinos...if that (improving training standards) will not happen there’s potentially 80,000 at risk.”

In an exchange of e-mails with Marino World, Lysaght claims, “A number of issues are being conflated here, incorrectly.”

Pilipino language) on his Facebook account that it is no longer his view but of European how “bulok ang sistema” (rotten system) of maritime administration here.

The UFS President believes, “Ngayon, nanganganib na tuluyang ma Ban ang mga Pilipinong marino sa Europe kung hindi pa rin nasosolusyunan ang mga problema na dating nasilip ng EMSA.” (Now, there is danger Pilipino seafarers will be banned in Europe if problems seen by EMSA are not resolved.)

Really, not UK. The British diplomat clarifies “…

Such transport issues (being audited

by EMSA) are decided at the level of the European Union, although the UK is of course a member of the EU. You are quite correct to say that there is no separate UK process.

I was asked if this was the fault of the government and something that it could fix. My reply was to commend the government’s action to improve and make more consistent the training and qualifications of its seafarers,” he explains.

At the Senate.

Senator Sonny Angara is pushing for the swift passage of a bill providing comprehensive protection to thousands of seabased Filipino workers following reports that they may face ban in European ships over inadequate training and ferry safety issues.

Angara has filed Senate Bill 1986, “An Act Instituting the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,” on November 27, 2013.

The audit.

EMSA auditors led by Senior Project Officer Jaime Veiga stayed in the country for one week, and started inspections of three agencies September 29th to October 3rd.

They inspected MARINA for three days, CHEd and PRC a day each.

This time, no maritime school nor training center were audited.

Administrator Mejia expects the release of the official EMSA audit report on January 2015.

Meantime, MARINA is sending a report this November to EMSA in compliance with the non-

Dr. Mejia of MARINA

conformities or shortcomings still seen in the latest audit which highlights on: •

Implementation of RA10635 MARINA STCW Administration;

•

Monitoring system on maritime schools and training centers;

•

Revisions on the Management Level Course (MLC);

•

Transfer of PRC examinations to MARINA.

“Despite Filipino seafarers’ huge contribution to our economy, the glaring failure of existing labor laws and legislation to safeguard their specific needs is very apparent, especially now with the possibility of Filipino seafarers being blacklisted in European ships,” Angara laments.

His concern is based on recent news reports the British government has stated it will not allow Filipino maritime professionals to work and operate in European ships unless concerns regarding training are addressed.

Angara: Magna Carta for Seafarers

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PAMTCI, PAMI REACT TO MARINA The Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) held a general emergency meeting to react to various STCW circulars from MARINA. The rushed caucus was held November 12th at the AMOSUP Convention Hall in Intramuros, Manila.

PAMTCI disagrees with STCW Circular 2014-01 on “Rules on the Preparation and Approval of STCW circulars,” submitted by STCW Executive Director Alvin Tormon and approved by the Administrator on August 27th.

The circular says “Except in cases of extreme importance and urgency, each proposed STCW Circular must substantially meet the general requirements of posting, receiving of recommendations, inclusion of valid recommendations, timely submission to and final approval by the Administrator, and publication.

concerned parties to give recommendations on improvements and revisions.”

While PAMTCI wants to submit a position paper, it maybe too late because the circulars which they want clarifications on are already approved November 14th by the Administrator.

The country has more than 100 maritime training centers, 42 of these are PAMTCI members.

PAMI concern.

Likewise, the 80-member Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) is bothered by the show cause order issued

by MARINA to more than 40 schools.

They are required to give reason why they should continue to offer BS Marine Transportation and BS Marine Engineering courses.

PAMI Pres. Beth Salabas

Any proposed STCW Circular originating from the STCW Office shall be posted in the MARINA STCW website for a period of seven (7) calendar days, as a means of public consultation, for the purpose of allowing

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On November 6th, MARINA issued Circular 2014-07, “Implementation of the Enhanced Support Level Program (ESLP)” for STCW certification as ratings forming part of a watch and ratings as able seafarer.

Stakeholders claim the circular is not aligned to CHEd Memo Order on ESLP previously approved after public consultations.

The CMO and Circular provide maritime higher education institutions (MHEIs)

PAMTCI Pres. Fred Haboc

option to convert their BS programs into the ESLP. ESLP refers to programs that are especially designed to take value added to the training of active Filipino seafarers —i.e. their exposure to general education and technical courses at the college level—in addition to compliance with the STCW requirements for certification as Ratings Forming Part of a Watch and Ratings as Able Seafarer.

RA 10635 IRR Section 14.2 says STCW functions of CHEd on overall control, supervision and monitoring of MHEIs shall continue until December 31, 2014.

CHEd shall also continue under the direction of the MARINA to,”… exercise oversight functions for the Enhanced Support Level Program in Marine Deck and Marine Engineering for optional implementation by MHEIs whose METP is under phase-out program. This is until an appropriate mechanism has been instituted by MARINA or until December 31, 2014, whichever comes later.

MARINA is expected to release soon the final list of maritime schools qualified to offer BS and ESLP programs.

MARINA TACKLES LICENSURE EXAMS In a radio interview, Administrator Mejia announces it is accepting applications for the marine officers’ licensure examinations on November 17th.

Some quarters doubt MARINA’s capability to administer licensure examinations. PRC conducted its last licensure exams for marine officers on November 15th.

Mejia says MARINA has already undergone dry run and targets to implement the system before November ends with limited candidates, increasing as MARINA gains more expertise.

There will be 146 stations for the computerized theoretical exams in the National Capital Region. The goal is to establish examination system in all regions to make it really walk-in.

•

2014-08, for officer-in-charge of a navigational watch

•

2014-09, for officer-in-charge of an engineering watch

MARINA will utilize the AMOSUP testing center in Intramuros, Manila for the computerized theoretical exams.

The conduct of practical exams will be arranged with accredited testing centers.

•

2014-10, for chief mate

•

2014-11, for second engineer officers

•

2014-12, for master; and

•

2014-13, for chief engineer.

MARINA on November 14th, issued circulars for the Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Examination, Assessment, Licensing and Certification:

TESDA GETS PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY Certificates of Recognition issued by TESDA are still valid based on MARINA STCW Advisory 2014-02, “Provisional authority in the conduct of ratings courses in accordance with the STCW for seafarers as amended.”

for accreditation of maritime training institutions that offer ratings courses.”

This approved by the MARINA Administrator November 14th and shall take effect on the day of its posting.

COPs and COCs.

TESDA rules, regulations and circulars issued for the purpose of STCW compliance ended September 30, 2014.

or Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and STCW Certificate of Proficiency (COP)/Certificate of Competency (COC) through seamanjobsite.com.

More transitions.

The Advisory says “Pursuant to RA 10635 and its IRR, and the 1978 International Convention on STCW, as amended, Provisional Authority is hereby granted to all holders of valid Certificate of Recognition, including those that have been certified to have completed the accreditation process and merely awaiting the release of Certificate of Recognition, issued by TESDA pending issuance of the Rules on Accreditation of maritime training institutions for ratings and corresponding approval of ratings courses.

All entities with existing Certificate of Recognition from TESDA shall upon submission of their TESDA recognition, be issued MARINA Provisional Authority which shall be valid until 30 June 2015 or until such time that a MARINA accreditation is secured pursuant to the new rules to be prescribed

Meanwhile, MARINA has implemented since September 3rd two-shift schedules for the issuance Certificates of Proficiency (COPs), viz: •

First shift, 5:30 am up to 2pm

•

Second shift, 2pm to 10 pm

•

Mondays to Fridays.

There are now 120 personnel to assist seafarers applying for COPs needed for onboard overseas deployment. Some 70,000 seafarers are applying for COPs per month, 80% renewals and 20% new applications.

The issuance of COPs has also been devolved to MARINA regional offices in Cebu, Iloilo, Davao and Tacloban since August yet.

On top, MARINA launches on-line appointment system for Seaman’s Book

Based on RA 10635’s Applicability of Other Laws, all rules, regulations or circulars issued by MARINA, CHED, NTC and DOH for the purpose of STCW compliance shall remain in force, subject to amendment or STCW Circulars by MARINA. But December 31, 2014 is the cut-off for enforcement by some Agencies like: •

PRC and the current Board of Marine Deck Officers and Board of Marine Engineer Officers on COGs for the deck officers and engineer officers

•

CHED on overall control, supervision and monitoring of MHEIs

•

Applications for COGs with NTC; and

•

Thereafter, by MARINA STCW Office beginning January 01, 2015.

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Opinion

Competency-based Education and Training

PERFORMANCE, NOT BOOK WORK

by Capt. Richard Teo I especially enjoyed reading the Letter by almost every stakeholder and wish the Industry every success in the formation of cohesion to once and for all show EMSA and the world that the Philippines does not lack the quality of seafarers.

But perhaps, we lag on the speed to make the change from archaic maritime education (MET) training methods and mindset to one that determines competence and not regurgitation of huge chunks of information privileging examinations instead of attaining performance outcomes by continuous and rigorous assessments.

Competency-based education and training – CBETA, or competencybased learning, is a very well-rounded method that encompasses underpinning knowledge directly aligned to the skills and praxis in the determination of the competence that is set per the standard.

Candidates are assessed based on performance not from book work, memorizing huge chunks of stuff that are usually superfluous and not in accordance with the performance required to attain the competence.

just as useless as none have attained the standard.

All assessments tools must be designed to ensure that candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate competence to the fullest requirement that the tool demands and the evidence accrued can withstand the scrutiny and rigors of the assessment process and procedures.

It is tough on the teacher and assessor (rather than the learner) since in the majority of cases, they may no longer be current.

A group of professionals (through GlobalMET and TKF) have undergone rigorous workshops on gaps between the STCW Code of Standards and Competencies and the way that learning has been provided in Philippines. A presentation will be made by project teams on 25th November prior to the M&T conference.

The author.

Assessments must follow the rules of evidence and not grades.

Capt Richard Teo has over five decades in maritime transport, including shipping and liner operations, offshore marine services, salvage and towage, marine surveys, insurance loss adjusting, shipbuilding and conducting vessel acceptance trials.

This means you either show you have attained 100% of the required knowledge and skill, within determined variables for the pre-determined competence/ standard or not. There is no such thing as 50% pass and 90% HD. Both grades are

He was also a maritime arbitrator with the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC). His portfolio carries six years with the Republic of Singapore Navy , where he ranked a full Major, then acting Lt. Col in the reserves.

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In the last 20 years, he has been an educator, mentor, trainer and facilitator of Competency Based Learning/ Competency Based Education, Training & Assessment, skills needed in Fisheries, Food & Safety Management (HACCP) and ocean going vessel operations.

He was the CEO/Director of the Darwinbased Seafood & Maritime Industries Training and recently retired as the Principal of the Papua New Guinea Maritime College.

Richard is a Chartered Fellow at the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport, Fellow of the Nautical Institute (UK) and a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Academe.

He is a Master Mariner (Singapore – valid & current to STCW 1995 amendments) and holds Post Graduate degrees – MSc –Mgt Systems (US) and Master of International Management -MIM and Post Graduate Diploma in Business, the latter two from Australia.

He holds the Australian Graduate degree (BTeach/Ed) in Adult and Vocational Education and is an especially qualified authority on Competency Based Education and Training (CBL-CBETA) for the Australian Vocational Education & Training (VET-TAE10).

The Captain has recently completed his Doctorate in Business Administration.

Health

HEALTH SYMPOSIUM

MARCDOC AT THE FOREFRONT

by Ligaya Caban

The Maritime Clinics and Doctors Association of the Philippines (MARCDOC) are in full force October 8th at the 3rd Philippines Maritime Health Symposium at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino Ballroon, Malate, Manila.

About 300 medical practitioners and manning executives attended, attracted by the conference theme, “The Philippines at the Forefront of Maritime Medicine.”

Important lectures were given, designed to benefit ship owners, manning agents, ship managers and physicians performing medical examinations on seafarers, viz: • • • • • • • • •

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Telemedicine and the impact on maritime health Outpatient consultations on-board and repatriation rates Why seafarers are declared unfit Unraveling the mysteries of cardiometabolic prediseases Vaccination schedules for Filipino seafarers New approaches for the treatment of appendicitis Alcohol dependence in Filipino seafarers Kidney stones: Seamen’s hospital study Medical management of kidney stones

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MARCDOC institutional members are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Abakkus Medical Diagnostic Services Absence Control Manila Clinic American Outpatient Clinic Eastern Doctor Medical Services First Medical Team Diagnostic Center Halcyon Marine Healthcare Systems Health Metrics Merita Diagnostic Clinic MICAH Medical & Diagnostic Lab Notre Dame Medical Clinic OCW Medical Clinic Philippine Medical Tests System Sachly Int’l Health Partners (S.H.I.P Clinic) Sanda Diagnostic Center Transnational Medical& Diagnostic Center

form and the synchronization of the laboratories for overseas Filipino clinics by using a third party contractor.

Atty. Lutero adds, “This is important to you as doctors and this should aid you in fast tracking you examinations yet wellmaintained quality standards...

MARCDOC knows the mechanics...

I hope we will be collaborating more... after all you doctors and clinic owners and we as policy makers are seeking one goal in mind and that is to ensure that our seafarers are in their utmost health before their deployment…”

Unfitness and Repatriation.

MARCDOC four-year study cites 1.83% or 5,152 repatriation of Filipino seafarers in 2010-2013. POEA data shows 280,670 deployments in almost 2,000 ships or 25% of 1.1 million seafarers deployed.

Health department.

Causes of repatriation:

Department of Health (DoH) Asst.

Secretary Nicolas Lutero III provided updates on DoH’s efforts to adhere to international standards.

1.

Injuries, 20.53%

2.

Musculo skeletal, 19.6%

3.

Digestive illness, 17.83%

4.

Genitourinary, 9.05%

5.

Cardiovascular diseases, 7.43%.

DoH on-going projects in maritime medical examinations include the standardization of the DoH preemployment medical examinations

Manalo Family

“ Give us data. The data and information of research is so valuable in lawmaking.”

- Cong. Manalo

According to the 2011-2013 data from eight MARCDOC clinic members, from the 309,968 Pre-employment Medical Examinations (PEME) performed, 1.76% or 5,449 seafarers are declared unfit.

Top six reasons of unfitness: 1.

Cardiovascular disease

2.

Tuberculosis

3.

Genitourinary

4.

Visual defects

5.

Hearing defects

6.

Cancer

know how to battle the most of these deadly afflictions.

imposition of appropriate administrative sanctions.”

“In the case of our seafarers there is an enormous need to provide them with periodic informative health seminars and trainings that will help them learn about the different types of sickness, the new and uncommon diseases that they may encounter abroad.

Collaboration.

If the health sector, the medical care has proven and has already shown proof the report of the DoH that we supply healthy seafarers, who are capable of doing hard work, then we can actually become a medical care management center for the world seafarers.

Research.

“Give us data. The data and information of research is so valuable in lawmaking,” appeals to MARCDOC by the keynote speaker, Angkla PartyList Congressman Jesulito Manalo.

The lawmaker challenged the medical practitioners to collaborate with DoH and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), to engage in international conventions, and go to the International Labor Organization (ILO) to discuss issues on health.

Manalo thinks more health and medical research should be conducted to readily

Asec. Lutero

We should develop as that. We should have continuous research,” clarifies the lawmaker.

Issues.

Prominently active in the forum was Jose Albar Kato, Joint Manning Group (JMG) immediate past president and director.

Among top issues raised are on workrelated and non-work related diseases, P & I claims and the contradictions on POEA seafarer contract vis-a-vis the Maritime Labor Convention 2006.

No unfit seafarers should be deployed out of pity nor lack of pool of ablebodies, specially seafarers.

JMG’s Kato calls on the manning agents to “… always be at the interest of the industry, the manning industry, not just a particular seafarer or a particular manning agency. If you want to shortcut, that is your fault, that is your risk.”

MARCDOC Immediate Past President Joseph Bien Abesamis reiterates the association’s commitment to the industry, “Our goal is to do a preemployment screening that we think that the seafarer would be fit for his contract, as part of the MLC. That a seafarer is not to be a threat to himself, the crew and to the company. That he doesn’t have a pre –existing condition that would jeopardize the contract.”

Dr. Abesamis also suggests to the manning agency that it would be its job to have enough manpower because not everybody can be fit.

“I think this is the discrepancy that is arising right now, because there is a confidentiality clause in the MLC ILO guideline, whereas in the POEA contract it is stipulated there that the crew must disclose. Now this is a really a grey area,” observes Kato.

The POEA contract provides, “A seafarer who knowingly conceals a pre-existing illness or condition in the Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) shall be liable for misrepresentation and shall be disqualified from any compensation and benefits. This is likewise a just cause for termination of employment and

Cong. Manalo

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DESIMONE

OFFERS GLOBAL

TELEMEDICINE Future Care CEO DeSimone

Future Care CEO Christina DeSimone underscores the role of telemedicine in global maritime health management at the MARCDOC 3rd Philippines Maritime Health Symposium, Hyatt Hotel and Casino Ballroom, Malate, Manila, October 8th.

“It is my conviction that telemedicine will change the world with this ability to communicate vital signs and evaluate critical care situations without the individual actually travelling to the doctor’s office or in the case of seafarers without even having to leave the ship,” assures DeSimone.

A medical service operating 24/7, Future Care is a global organization onmedical care management, claims management and medical cost containment services, delivering managed health care exclusively to the maritime industry.

Future Care is essentially proactive, anticipating rather than just reacting; avoiding any I-told-you-so alibi of the unprepared.

Over uncertainties of health challenges, it is reassuring Ms. DeSimone’s worldclass services are there to offer solutions; to suave the pain, to keep the ships on time and cargo in the market.

Its “Caring for the Crew Program” provides primary health care advice at sea helping to reduce repatriation,

increase fit for duty and save lives.

Medical incidents.

In Future Care’s “Breakdown of Medical Incidents” from January to September 2014, 3,253 incidents were managed. 54% of all medical incidents emailed to or called on Future Care are illness related while 33% are injury and 13% dental.

Seafarers on board during time period was 20,000. There were 900 vessels signed under the program with an average of 20 crewmembers and a crew rotation of 1.5.

16.2% of the 20,000 crew were referred to Future Care for management of various conditions.

From the study, DeSimone analyses the cost in crew medical is still in multimillion because of the 78% without medical facilities.

Crew care.

DeSimone underscores “Primary health care services provided at sea by trained physicians has proven to reduce the amount of medical emergencies that require deviation of the vessel and repatriations... keeping the vessel and its crew healthy.”

Future Care records research analytic every day that they take a call from the

Captain for medical advice by simply calling in and placing into its case tracking system.

Future Care operates 24/7, 365 days.

It provides email contact center that is managed in real time, provides medical advice and treatment immediately.

“We’re trying to really have a realistic idea on what is happening to that crew member...Concentrate on what we can do to help minimize illness...we suitably address the minor medical situation, the less chance of… growing into a larger critical medical incident.

The physicians and nurses are working on both sides of the globe: watching the emails, making sure responding to the Captains needs. The trained medical first responders led by nurses and doctors react in real time to the concerns.”

96% of call-ins were resolved before they can even get to the next port call.

The crew were even given the fit for duty and go back to work.

MLC 2006 Title IV encourages shipowners and shipmanagers to allow crew members to have easy access to health care solutions.

Future Care is headquartered in United States with offices in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, recently opened.

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MARITIME ADMIN

AFTER THE DEVASTATION

DOF and OSM Light Hope in Javier Teachers, children and parents joined hands preparing for the grand ceremony, humbly and in gratitude of the assistance making their classrooms like brand new facilities a year after the super typhoon.

“Despite our excruciating condition, we have shown resiliency.” Abueva added.

“We are lucky when DOF and OSM found us and gave us more than what we need, especially for the school children.”

On 7th November, OSM Managing Director Allan Falkenberg together with other OSM representatives flew to Leyte to officially turn-over the spanky classrooms to community of Barangay Comatin lead by Mrs. Jocelyn C. Abueva, Head Teacher III of Comatin Elementary School, in far-flung Javier, Leyte.

The school buildings were completed on schedule by Lanoy Construction in support of the Restoration and Rehabilitation Project of DOF and OSM. DepEd Region 8 Assistant School Division Superintendent Mario Rodge Sombilon adds, “For the part of DepEd, we will sustain this (building) through constant monitoring and supervision.”

Dr. Sombilon continues, “We believe that conducive classrooms lead towards quality education. With this edifice, this will be an avenue for personal transformation and eventually will contribute meaningfully to national development.”

“In behalf of the whole community of Comatin, I wholeheartedly accept (the new classrooms of) Comatin Elementary School with assurance and commitment that we will maintain and keep this noble work of DOF and OSM,” pledges Mrs. Abueva.

The ceremony is seen restoring both the ruined facilities and the radiant smiles of the children.

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Delegates from OSM were escorted by drum and bugle band with children waving flags they created themselves.

“We are here to represent both DOF and OSM today,” says Falkenberg who also explained that DOF representative was not able to travel from Norway due to unavoidable circumstances.

“I would like everyone to give a big hand to our partner for their support. It’s really tremendous not only for this (community) but also to the affected seafarers,” adds the benefactor.

For his parting words, he emphasized the children as the most important part in the school project. “I want to thank all the beautiful children standing here, greeting us both today and the last time we were here, thanking you for being beautiful, thanking you for studying hard, as your commitment to your teachers so that you can grow up and become future leaders of the world.”

OPINION

Cover Story

DOF and OSM helping hand.

From relief to rehabilitation, that is the guiding principle of corporate commitment towards the Comatin Elementary School in Javier, Leyte. And formally, on a memorandum of agreement more spoken of as ‘Restoration and Rehabilitation Project’.

The MOA was signed by OSM Maritime Services President, Radm. Adonis B. Donato and the DepEd Region 8 Schools Division Superintendent Ronelo Al K. Firmo.

The school facility was levelled by the fury of Supertyphoon Yolanda, November 8th last year. With the help of benefactors, rebuilding was started in September 2014.

It was completed this November before the turn-over ceremony a year after the landfall of the killer howler.

sufficient assistance due to inaccessibility.

The ocular visit found Comatin ES in the isolated town of Javier when most of its classrooms were still in ruins many months after the super typhoon.

The classrooms were not safe to hold classes. Teachers had to bring pupils under the shades of trees to hold classes since the devastated classrooms were not safe for children, until the newly restored and rehabilitated classrooms are completed the pupils now have a better school to continue their education.

Before this R & R project was even started, OSM has also conducted various relief operations by giving relief goods and clothing not just from the company but also from the contribution of generous employees, ship owners and principals driven by famed battle cry, “It’s All About People.”

On time of need.

The charity goods were shipped to Leyte and Palawan through TS Kapitan Felix Oca when the sufferings of the people were still hurting. OSM also conducted a medical mission in Concepcion, Iloilo earlier this year for another isolated community suffering the same gravity of the storm’s aftermath.

E a r l i e r , t h e We l f a r e Department of OSM Maritime Services visited various schools in far-flung areas of Leyte in search of a school that has not yet been given any

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DOF AND OSM LIGHT HOPE FOR JAVIER

And even before that, as concern for its seafarers, the whole OSM team established communication with the families of the seafarers to find out how they are doing days after the typhoon.

These info are relayed to seafarers onboard for their peace of mind.

But communications were still unstable the whole of November, 2013. Thus, OSM sent two ‘volunteers’ from its Welfare Department to locate the remaining ‘uncontacted’ seafarers in Cebu and Leyte. The OSM representatives under Department Manager Carlos Mendoza saw the devastation, the horror of the climactic fury on people and property, on life and limb, on public infra and private holdings.

Some members of the OSM Seafarers Family Club Cebu Chapter helped the Welfare Department representatives in search of uncontacted families.

Although in Leyte the OSM staffs were all by themselves.

The team finally found the uncontacted families of seafarers; checked out how they are doing, their safety, and immediately relayed the updates to the Manila office. It took six days to complete the mission.

Always with OSM goodwill, smiling Pres. Donato

OSM did that for a primordial concern of the firm is the welfare of the seafarers and their families.

OSM has been doing such social initiatives whether for the seafarers, their families and the community they serve as a way of giving back. Mr. Falkenberg fervently says, “When you are running a business and the business went well, give back to the society that assist and contribute to your success.”

ABOUT DOF The firm is a global team of skilled professionals who, combined with a

fleet of state-of-the-art, purpose-built vessels, provides services to the Oil and Gas industries across the entire offshore life cycle. This is the DOF formula of our success by delivering solutions to customers.

DOF management has a crew of highly skilled professionals (onshore and offshore) to perform the task of ship-management, ship-operation, and the services. DOF management provides the experience, knowledge and flexibility on how to operate offshore vessels according to the owners and our customers’ demands.

With systematic development of expertise and services, the company remains the preferred supplier to all major operators within its market segments.

The company has a strong focus on quality, health, safety and environment.

It is ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001:2004 certified company.

DOF management is based at Storebø and Bergen, in Norway. In addition DOF Management has offices operating out of Aberdeen, UK (via DOF UK Ltd) and Singapore. In addition DOF management operates also from Perth, Argentina and Egypt.

OSM Welfare Manager Mendoza taking of kids, by insight to help.

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21

Training

MoA signing solidifies partnership: Sabay of NEWSIM, Salas of DNV-GL

Quality Courses Now in Key Cities

NEWSIM TEAMS UP WITH DNV-GL Great beginning is in the offing as The New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NEWSIM) approaches 14th year this December, on top of dynamic achievements in its six operational offices in Makati (2), Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao.

Optimism is high on the recent teaming of NEWSIM with DNV-GL Maritime Academy Philippines for a training partnership. The formal agreement was signed November 7th at the NEWSIM office in Makati City.

This is to carry out joint training activities of both companies quality assured courses in the Visayas and Mindanao. With this collaboration, the maritime industry will benefit tremendously by having quality assured courses available in key cities south of Manila, as starters.

Pilot courses are set for January, 2015 and conducted at NEWSIM facilities Cebu, Iloilo and Davao, all major cities in Western and Eastern Visayas and Mindanao, respectively.

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“The partnership between NEWSIM and DNV-GL (Maritime Academy Philippines) combines the best of both worlds. This collaboration benefits both parties and the entire seafaring industry with quality-assured courses now conveniently available in our major cities,” says Capt. Reynold ‘Burt’ Sabay, NEWSIM’s Chief Executive Officer.

To top its safety courses, NEWSIM takes pride of the “NEWSIM ARK”, dubbed the ultimate basic safety training facilities in the Philippines, located in Sariaya, Quezon. NEWSIM owns four buses for the convenient shuttle of trainees to and from the site.

In response, “This collaboration is another milestone for Maritime Academy Philippines. Our clients within these areas will no longer travel and incur additional expenses just to take our courses and I am glad that NEWSIM made it possible for us,” adds Manager Melody Salas of DNV-GL Maritime Academy Philippines.

On 12 September 2013, DNV and GL merged to form DNV GL and become the world’s leading ship and offshore classification society, the leading technical advisor to the global oil and gas industry, and a leading expert for the energy value chain including renewables and energy efficiency; more, as one of the top three certification bodies in the world.

NEWSIM is the country’s preferred training and assessment center. Its corporate mission is to continuously upgrade the knowledge and skills of seafarers towards global standards.

This is NEWSIM’s contribution to the aspirations of every Filipino Seafarer: to live in freedom, prosperity and dignity in a country at one with the world.

The partner.

DNV-GL new course portfolio is based on three core themes: Developing People, Operating Ships and Building Ships. The training courses help business performance and achieve goals through targeted training.

Education

MPCF Pres. Jimenez convinces PAMI peers.

MPCF PIONEERS IN JUNIOR COLLEGE Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF), Bicol’s premier maritime institution, is on the edge again by pioneering maritime-oriented junior college in the country.

This is Mariners System’s response to the expected implementation of RA 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 also known as the K+ 12 signed into law May 15, 2013.

K+ 12 program was launched earlier in April 2012 which establishes a universal kindergarten and introduces Grades 11 and 12 to high school education in public and private schools.

MPCF has already applied for K-11 and 12 to the Department Education (DepEd) and submitted a position letter to use a different nomenclature “Junior College or Pre-College – Maritime Oriented” instead of Senior High School K-12.

As per study of the MPCF Research Group, on basic educational objectives, Junior College and K11 & 12 have no difference except on the term or nomenclature used.

K+12 is two years additional grades equivalent to Senior High School or the so-called Grades 11-12 on top of the Grade 7 imposed after the learners in public schools have completed Grade 6 in the elementary grades. A Junior College, on the other hand, is a “college

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offering courses for two years beyond high school either as a complete training or in preparation for four-year college degree.” It is a two-year post secondary course in many schools worldwide including the United States and Singapore.

In the context then of Philippine education, Junior College can be considered Grades 11 and 12.

Psychological impact.

MPCF- Legaspi President Dante Jimenez explains, “What’s in a word? It certainly means a lot for the long-suffering Filipino parent who is sending his/her child to school through painstaking labor.

Meanwhile, the increased self-confidence on the learner could also infuse more enthusiasm for him to study better.

Twelve years as a ‘grader’ has a certain negative connotation that also sounds oppressive because of the long years of elementary and high school study; the word “college” carries an air of optimism and a certain dignity that parents can carry with pride and inspiration. It is also a status when both parents and learners can look forward in a short time when the “college student” may soon enter the labor force and be an income earner.

It is a ‘magical’ nomenclature that has positive psychological impact in the community.”

Collaboration.

High School Principals from neighbouring municipalities have converged to discuss coordinated efforts between the MPCF and the public high schools in the vicinity once the K to 12 program is implemented in 2016.

As of now, preparations are underway but both parties have admitted that much is still to be desired on the preparedness of public high schools under DepEd to start effectively the program in the target date.

With this situation, the meeting explored doable options on how to partially cushion the negative impact once the program is started.

Among the problems identified are the lack of classrooms to accommodate students who will enter Grades 11 and 12 (Senior High School or Junior College).

The lack of qualified instructors, absence of adequate equipment and laboratory facilities needed in the course –oriented subjects, were also pinpointed.

Along this line, MPCF-Legazpi pledged to accommodate qualified 4th year High School students in 2016 as they start with their Grade 11, with Maritime-oriented subjects it is offering.

Although MPCF cannot accommodate all fourth year students coming from

the public high schools in the area, at least the school can lessen the number of students who might not have much option where to go.

state-of-the-art facilities, equipment and amenities.

Mariners offers scholarship grants to deserving students, a reason why poverty should not be a cause especially for those who will pass the qualifying examinations.

•

Students who will finish the maritimeoriented grades 11 and 12 course will be issued Seaman’s Book which will enable them to get work in international sea-going vessels. After Grade 12, the students will have the option to start working as an ordinary seafarer or pursue a bachelor’s degree in maritime education to become a ship officer.

“The issuance of a Seaman’s Book’ to those who will finish Grades 12 or Junior College will be of great value for those in this level grade as this will give them the opportunity to work outright”, says Commo. Jimenez.

Capability.

MPCF-Legazpi has the following:

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Classrooms with some equipped with multi-media projectors and screens Full mission bridge simulators (2) Training bridge GMDSS/ARPA Engine room simulator Engineering laboratories equipped with various marine equipment Mock-up hotel and restaurant Speech laboratory Computer laboratories Physics/chemistry laboratories Maritime training facilities Teachers holding various NCs from TESDA Other amenities

MPCF in Canaman, likewise, has the same equipment and facilities as MPCF Legazpi save for complete bakery and culinary apparatus. MPC in Naga City offers amenities such as training hotel, radio broadcasting equipment, culinary paraphernalia and others.

Mariners’ System has the capability of offering Junior College because of its

MARINERS

PRIDE

Two Mariners from MPCF-Canaman campus again bagged prestigious awards announced at the recent National Seafarers Day (NSD) celebrations.

Winners are Midshipman Niño Copones, BSMarE, one of the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students (TOMS) of Western Union; BSMarE Cadet Alvin Alvaro, grand winner of the NSD On-the-Spot Art contest.

TOMS is a project of Western Union, a nationwide search for graduating maritime students who have shown excellence in their communities, in support of the country’s bid for successful careers for Filipino seafarers.

Sharing.

Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) Secretary-General Jimenez also presented the MPCF study to the organization in a board meeting held at the Manila Yacht Club last Oct 7th.

In his letter to PAMI President Elizabeth Salabas, Jimenez cites, “Considering the tremendous impact on the enrolment of supposed first year college students this coming 2016 as per the new law, the undersigned humbly recommends to PAMI and/or its member-schools to consider submitting to DepEd a different nomenclature to replace the Senior High School K-12, and that is “Junior College or Pre-College –Maritime Oriented.”

Related to the objective of MARINA and CHEd (to prepare those entering college, this is) the best way.... (Those wishing to pursue degree program, you will see as having high grades because there will be) entrance examinations in the university, the school has to adopt that.

PAMI directors scrutinized the MPCF proposal, considered it well, and calendared for more deliberation in its next meeting.

TOMS up again for two Mariner cadets, beams Commo. Dante Jimenez and Ms. Marian Her. Lazaro, MPCF-Cam Sur VPAA.

“In recognizing the achievements of the maritime student community, we hope that we instill a lifelong love for learning and a passion for excellence, establishing the beginning of a brighter future for the next generation of seafarers,” says Patricia Riingen, Western Union’s SVP for South and East Asia and Oceania.

MPCF Pres. Dante La. Jimenez comments, “Indeed, this is something that the Mariners community is proud of. It brings inspiration to the students as well as to the mentors who believe in the good things everyone is capable of achieving. This is also reflective of what Mariners as an institution is and this gives us the challenge to continue what we have started.”

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25

Training

Waving proud, flags of supporters

PARADE OF

COLORS KICKS OFF

NTC-M Blom with THOME top executives

NTC-M SILVER ANNIVERSARY October 17th, 25 flags waved proudly at the Norwegian Training Center – Manila (NTC-M) honoring the 25 companies, donors, and top clients for unwavering support to the training center. As a whole and for 25 years.

Company representatives walked on the red carpet, waived flaglets and raised their official flags as part of the Parade of Colors, NTC-M’s kick-off celebrations for its Silver Anniversary in May, 2015.

PMMA Cadets lined the entrance as honor guards. The Philippine flag was raised by Capt. Rex Recomite, NTC-M’s Training Manager and Mr. Rene Leoncito, HR and Admin Manager.

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Norway’s colors was raised by Capt. Erik F. Blom, Managing Director and Capt. Joeran Noestvik, Deputy Director.

As the standards of both countries were being raised, national anthems of the two cooperating States were played lending solemnity to the ceremonies .

The honored companies include BW Shipping, DNK, DOF, Eidesvik, GC Rieber, Grieg Shipping, Havila Shipping, Hoegh Fleet Services, J.J Ugland, Jo Tankers, Jotun, KGJS, Klaveness, Knutsen OAS, Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, Odfjell, Oldendorff, Olympic Shipping, OSM, Solstad Offshore, Solvang, Stolt

Nielsen, Teekay SHipping, TSM and Wilhelmsen.

Representatives lined up for the parade and assisted by NTC-M’s Electro cadets Batch 21. They simultaneously raised the flags on vibrant drum rolls, making celebrations upbeat and positive. The sky was downcast but rain just drizzled until the flag raising was over.

Food of different culinary specialties, canapés, petit pores, wine whetted appetites.

And a lot more delighted the eyes of guests and employees alike, creating a celebratory ambience for everyone.

Legacy of Honor CAPT. GREGORIO S. OCA STREET Cabildo street was the common choice to rename as Capt. Gregorio S. Oca Street. Back-up data was provided by Peñalosa to the two legislators for their sponsorship in the plenary mills of the Lower House. A counterpart bill in the Senate is still on the works (as of this writing).

His dreams, our legacy.

W

here he dared to dream dreams --- and craft by time and passion the fulfillments, that street shall be named Capt. Gregorio S. Oca from Cabildo street.

Two legislators have filed separate enabling bills to honor the Grand Old Man of Philippine maritime industry, founder of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP).

Cong. Amado S. Bagatsing, 5th District of Manila, filed in August 7 House Bill 4837 renaming Cabildo Street in Intramuros Manila to Capt. Gregorio S. Oca Street.

Angkla Partylist Representative Jesulito A. Manalo filed another in August 14, HB 4884.

Both solons re-acted positively to a letter dated July 7th by Francis Peñalosa, 59 years old, of Quezon City, which says in part, “After I have gathered all this information, not to mention the neverending good words that I hear about this man, what crossed my mind is that he would be well-remembered by having the street where all his dreams came true be named after him…”

HB 4884.

Angkla Partylist’s Manalo intertwines the past with the present: “The Street of Cabildo in Intramuros, Manila, has been a popular area for the Filipino seafarers.

In fact, Cabildo houses several groups operating to address the needs of the seafarers.

The Bagatsing bill recalls that Captain Oca organized the Associated Marine Officers’ Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) on November 11, 1960. The Philippine Transport General Workers’ Organization (PTGWO) was the mother federation. This is to address the sad plight of the lowly-paid Filipino seafarers who have little protection from hazards as sickness, accident and death.

Among these are the AMOSUP Seamen’s Centre, AMOSUP Slop Chest Manila, AMOSUP Sailor’s Home Manila, Seamen’s Hospital and AMOSUP Sailor’s Home Annex. All these structures on Cabildo were constructed inspired by the dreams and passion shared by Capt. Oca with his fellow maritime professionals and families.

On top, the Union has started a series of training programs to upgrade the skills of Filipino seafarers. These are to ensure competitiveness against foreign counterparts.

Ten years thereafter in 1970, AMOSUP merged with the Associated Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (ASUP) to form one cohesive organization and eventually affiliated itself with the International Transport Worker’s Federation (ITF). This significantly improved work conditions and membership growth.

Seafarers pump into the national economy some US$5.1-billion in 2013 alone, as it does those inward net remittances through the years. Thus, renaming Cabildo Street – the place where he conceived the vision and structured the fulfilment – to Capt.

Gregorio S. Oca is appropriate. Indeed, overdue.

Today, membership stands at over 100,000 and our maritime community boasts of a Seamen’s Center, Seamen’s Hospital and Sailor’s Home Manila all located at Cabildo Street, Intramuros Manila. Indeed, Captain Oca’s dream of providing more socialized benefits has come true and he has helped the Filipino seafarer earn the respect and admiration of the global maritime community.

Expansion.

HB 4837.

Capt. Oca passed away in November, 2010. His son, Dr. Conrado F. Oca, now heads AMOSUP to continue the journey his father has started.

On November 28, birthday of Capt Gregorio Oca, will be the ground breaking of the expansion of Seamen’s Hospital at Cabildo corner San Jose streets, Intramuros, Manila. This shall be besides the old seamen’s hospital and will occupy an additional 800 sq/m.

An activity center inside the seamen’s village in Iloilo will be constructed.

Last January, an activity center in Davao was inaugurated.

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Feature

Japanese homeboatYakatabune.

PLSE & MII POWERHOUSE TEAM UP Philippine Life Saving Equipment (PLSE) forges a partnership with Mikuni International (MII), a highly respected manufacturer of advance technologybased products.

MII was incorporated in 1981 and registered with EPZA (currently FAB) on September of the same year initially as a manufacturer/exporter of baseball caps with a plant at the Bataan Export Processing Zone in Mariveles, Bataan.

In August 2002, MIC completed a 100foot party boat, a modernized version of the Yakatabune (Japanese houseboats) “floating restaurant” - the traditional “entertainment” boat popular among the Japanese of the Edo Period (1603-1867).

This accomplishment set a landmark for the boat-building industry in the Philippines.

In 1990 Mikuni Industries Corporation (MIC) was issued EPZA Registration No. 90-038 to manufacture silkscreen printing machine, metal sorting, engine reconditioning, and fiberglass products such as car bumpers and motorcycle helmets.

Ishikawa-Jima-Harima Heavy Industries (IHI), through its Fiberglass Boat Division, AMTEC, pick of MIC to be its partner in building the 100-ft. fiberglass party boat is a benchmark recognition. For IHI carries historic credentials dates to 1853 in shipbuilding; builder of the Yamato, the biggest battleship in WWII, and the world’s biggest tanker in the 70’s.

MIC branched out into more technically exacting fiberglass hull Boats, leisure watercrafts and accessories. It is now making boats ranging from 15-foot up to 45-foot fishing and patrol boats. MIC is a member of the American Boat and Yacht Association (ABYC) and the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) in America.

To solidify the confidence of IHI, MIC have undergone rigorous testing, investigation and evaluation of shipbuilding skills and technology.

MIC received commendation of the technical staff of IHI-AMTEC which found MIC’s facilities as among the few in the world to have the capability to “build all” (hull boats and accessories),

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something not commonly found even in the shipbuilding yards of Japan Another challenge was hurdled by MIC in passing the rigid standards of Japan Government (JG) in the construction of fiberglass vessels of 20 tons gross tonnage and above. JG, through its Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is tasked to inspect and approve MIC’s capability to build the boat based on stringent Japanese Ship Safety Law. With the synergy of the technical skills of MII and the marketing acumen of PLSE and its strong connection in the industry, success for both is just around the corner.

On top, PLSE marketing gambit for 2015 is unique twice a month leisure tours of Manila Bay free for selected clients on board the Mikuni Marine M-2 Cabin type fiberglass boat.

Small wonder PLSE marketing outreach could ply well overseas --- to Papua New Guinea and Micronesia, as starters.

PSLE SERVICES MAGSAYSAY Industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frontrunner Magsaysay Group is a major and newest client of Philippine Life Saving Equipment (PLSE), proof of its strong, steady growth.

PLSE President Delfin Supapo and his team recently announced delivery of brand new lifeboats, davit, liferafts and other life-saving equipment for the Magsaysay Training Center practical training site in Barangay Bunga, Tanza, Cavite.

Magsaysay Maritime Corporation President Marlon Rono and VP/Head of Magsaysay Training Center Engr.

Romeo Piccio signed the supply and service agreement for the state-of-theart training equipment.

Established in 1970, MTC is a pioneer in the professional development of maritime officers and crew. As part of the Magsaysay Learning Group, MTC provides quality training for the Philippine and international maritime industries that fully comply with international standards.

Products and services.

PSLE eagerly responds to increasing inquiries (averaging 200) amid pressures onstakeholders compliance to the STCW Convention, 2010 Manila Amendments, and the critical

audit by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).

With its affiliate companies, PLSE provides services to maritime schools, training centers, shipping companies, communities, petroleum (offshore and oil explorations). It also services government agencies like the Coast Guard, National Maritime Polytechnic, Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, and Defense.

PSLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature safety equipment is the Viking davit-launched and throwoverboard liferafts.

A complete range of life-saving equipment is offered like liferaft, rescue boat, rigid hull inflatable boats, rubber boat, davits, fender, fire fighting equipment, immersion suits, inflatable lifejackets, protective clothing, emergency evacuation systems, self-contained breathing apparatus, ringbouy, life saving appliances, respiratory equipment, chemical protection, parsun outboards, publications and yachting.

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

Rescue and Free Fall), standard liferaft, marine evacuation systems and/or liferafts for oil rigs and passenger vessels, aviation liferafts, MOB-boats, inflatable lifejackets, waterproof clothing, fire protective clothing and immersion suits and selfcontained breathing Apparatus.

PSLE constructs and designs Full Mission Bridge Simulators, installs and commissions Transas Brand Simulator based on international standards. It also offers door-to-door transport solutions through Roll-Lift and Roll-Dock.

Designed from global data on climactic challenges and engineered on the ergonomics of human capabilities, PSLE equipment have been tested superior over any competitor.

For more than just selling products, PSLE is much aware that limbs are at stakes, that life must be saved.

And these equipment must match the dedication of rescuers who take risks beyond duty and self.

PSLE showroom and office is at 148 Yakal corner Talisay streets, San Antonio Village, Barangay San Antonio, Makati City with landlines 553-8507 to 09.

PLSE repairs lifeboats (TELB, Fast

Supapo, Rono and Piccio: A handshake seals the terms

MARINO WORLD

29

Feature

V. SHIPS MANILA STRENGTHENS

BONDING VIA MUSICAL A

bout 200 seafarers, officers, staff and families of V. Ships Manila enjoyed the musical theatre, “Once On This Island” at the Tanghalang Yaman Lahi Emilio Aguinaldo College Theater in Ermita, Manila last October 11th.

“Pag masaya sila, masaya rin tayo,” exclaims Engr. Elmer Pulumbarit, GM of V. Ships Manila. Translating from the Pilipino, it means we are happy when they are.

The musical is a captivating legend of romance between a peasant girl and a rich city boy whom she saves from death.

This calypso-flavoured re-telling of “The Little Mermaid” opens on a Caribbean island where villagers comfort a little girl with the story of the orphan Ti Moune, destined to love too much for the human heart to bear.

Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International and staged with minimal props, sets and costumes, Once On This Island

V Ships Family after the musical play.

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delivers melody, love and joy in tropical abundance.

Support.

V. Ships Manila sponsored the musical theatre produced by Ephesus Treaton Group, one of the most significant theater companies in the Philippines bringing intelligence, excellence, and passion to the stage.

Director is Ms. Baby Barredo, a pillar of the Philippine theatre industry.

Ephesus Teatron Group produces local and international productions that entertain, educate, inspire, and enrich, thus, providing a unique theater experience that surpasses the expectations of the audience, bookers, and workshop participants.

“Following the performances at this theatre, Once on This Island hopes to tour, bringing showcase to schools and other venues in the provinces and we are all very excited at this prospect,” says Sweet Samaniego Buchanan who

performs as Erzulie in the play.

Sweet is Ephesus Treaton Group President and wife of Robert Gerald Buchanan, President of Genco Shipping and Trading.

More from V. Ships Manila.

It was also announced during the event the forthcoming Christmas Party this year, readily spreading cheers to their seafarers and staff. It is now a tradition that when V. Ships Manila throws a party, it is a swinging one for all.

At the same time, the different manning agents of V. Ships in Manila will soon be transferring offices from its current location in Ermita and Makati to posh Aseana City, a sprawling master-planned community along Roxas Boulevard and Manila Bay. New facilities, and more accessibility are offered by the new location at Aseana Two BPO Building, inside Aseana City, a strategic in the metropolis.

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Feature

Hon. Jesulito A. Manalo First Nominee, Angkla PartyList XVIth Congress, Philippines Angkla’s Nominee bonds with his Seafarers.

SAILING HIGH WITH THE WIND Surprising when earlier Jesulito was flogged a wrong choice. Angkla should be represented by a gung-ho marino, not by a suave abogado.

But critics are now eating humble pie. Surprising (again!) the sterling performance of Manalo: in Plenary sessions, in the Committee hearings, in public consultations as he surfs to understand industry problems and find acceptable solutions.

For what most don’t know is the fuel inside the man. He is the son of a weathered merchant mariner, reared in the pain and perks of plying blue waters.

And fewer realize the historic challenge of chartering the passage in Congress of RA 10635, the single most defining act of the Philippine Government to appease the European Union into keeping the recognition of our competencies in maritime work.

Over 100,000 jobs could be lost; in a time the Administration is being hammered for not creating enough jobs for the growing labor force.

Manalo has to cope with Inter-Agency wars clinging to their turfs against the streamlining of STCW functions exclusively to MARINA. Politicians dilly-dally the passage of the critical bill while EMSA (European Maritime Safety Administration) sharpens the axe to cut our berth on the jobs.

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by Ligaya Caban

Legislative action.

The first quarter of 2014 was a good head start. On 13th March, Angkla’s first bill was enacted into law as Republic Act 10635. This establishes the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as the single administration to enforce the Standards for Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) governing our seafarers. This law checks confusion as to which government agency should regulate and implement the standards of competency.

•

•

• RA 10635, however, is only a flagship of over 70 House Bills Angkla pursues. The advocacy includes: •

•

•

•

Protection of seafarers with monetary claims due to occupational hazards and illnesses against abuses of ambulance chasers taking advantage of the seafarers (Approved by the main committee and to be heard by the House for Second Reading).

Parallel to said bill, Manalo met with commissioners of the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) seeking help curtail ambulance chasing.

Modernization of the practice of naval architecture for a new face of our country as ship building and repair hub to generate employment.

(On Second Reading before Plenary debates.)

Organizing a comprehensive Ship

Registry system for the regulation of vessels carrying the flag state, as well as collateral income for the State.

Establishing a state-run maritime school in Mindanao, hopefully supervised by the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) to provide aspiring seafarers in the regions with quality education and training.

Tax exemption of domestic ship owners to boost the growth of the domestic fleets; and Enhancing on-line registration and voting to allow more seafarers and other Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) to actively participate in the elections.

Apart from pet bills, Cong. Manalo is pretty much involved in painstaking deliberations of House proposals, especially those focusing on maritime safety, seafarers’ rights, and maritime labor issues, such as insurance, repatriation, delineation of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) contributions of the seafarers from those of land-based OFWs. He stood in defense of the MARINA budget, to ensure it best complies with its mandate, plus additional functions under RA 10635. Fact is, Manalo was able to defend funds for a new, modern MARINA building. Seafarers and stakeholders will have a bigger, safer edifice to transact business with.

On a tour of the Tsuneishi shipyard.

On social legislation with national impact, Cong. Manalo is always active in Committee hearings. He is a member of House Legislative Committees like Justice, Transportation, Overseas Workers Affairs, Ways and Means, Suffrage, Higher and Technical Education, Foreign Affairs, Tourism, Agrarian Reform, as well as Labor, and Science and Technology, wherein he both sits as Vice Chair.

Policy and enforcement.

A great chunk of quality time is devoted by Cong. Manalo with the various agencies of government, pushing for reforms and enforcement of programs for seafarers and the shipping industry.

Given the crucial position of MARINA, he is in constant communication with its key officials, to further develop regulatory systems, to resolve sad plights seafarers face. Primordially, to

promote sustainable programs for the improvement of the industry.

He keeps close coordination with Foreign Affairs (DFA), Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Transportation and Communication (DOTC), including sub agencies, to ensure labor rights, statutory benefits and safety of our seafarers and their families are amply safeguarded. These coordination proved effective in that with the active help of Angkla, four seafarers wrongfully accused and detained in Argentina for six months were successfully repatriated to their families. This was in January this year, with all benefits settled soon thereafter.

In consistently touching base with the DOTC Secretary, he helped pave the way for MIAA to recognize the exemption of OFWs from terminal fees to be collected when purchasing airline tickets in the country.

On Cong. Manaloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suggestion, DFA will post special maritime envoys to represent us in relevant international organizations, such as the IMO. These maritime attaches will surely bring about positive developments as they directly participate and gather information for the roadmap of the industry.

Last May, Cong. Manalo joined chosen congressional delegates to Europe for discussions with officials of primary international maritime organizations, specifically the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs (P & I Clubs).

This opened doors for these organizations to look at our maritime industry more intently, to provide more assistance for further development of our domestic fleets. They have recognized the need to strengthen linkages working for significant changes.

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SAILING HIGH WITH THE WIND

IMO officials hear Manalo’s views.

Reaching out.

All these hard work cater to the needs and demands of members and stakeholders of the seafaring industry.

Fundamentally, Angkla exists to represent the people of this vast sector.

Angkla is ensuring seafarers who are no longer employed will be supported and receive medical services and medicines from the government.

Angkla’s advocacy for proper education and training is concretized by its 1,033 scholars in many parts of the country, pursuing studies in maritime schools.

Still a lot to be done, Manalo admits, a work in process. This is why he does not cease to seek support from fellow solons, seafarers themselves, stakeholders, government agencies, and the academe.

Last September, Angkla has entered into a preliminary Memoranda of Understanding with both Professor Jay Batongbacal and Atty. Winston Cruz, of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea (UP-IMLOS) forming a Maritime Policy Trust. It will focus on energies, resources, and expertise on the maritime industries of the Philippines, serve as its policy-research and support arm.

The Trust hopes to fill in a major gap in providing a forum through which parties

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can work together in a multi-disciplinary and multi-professional setting.

Cong. Manalo has accepted invitations to speak in fora in schools, and maritime associations. Therein, he reports on Angkla’s activities and listen to the issues raised. Angkla, likewise, regularly holds and attends sectoral conferences and summits for exchanges of perspective that lead to clearer understanding of issues.

Last 10 November, a conference, “Transforming the Philippines into a Maritime Nation and Developing the Essential Roadmap” was concluded.

It was attended by heads of the industry, members of the academe in the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), and UP-IMLOS, as well as other government agencies like MARINA and OWWA. The forum zeroed in on the formulation of the roadmap with emphasis on the need to push for quality education and training of our seafarers and our people. Cong. Manalo stressed that, notwithstanding the premiere position held by our maritime professionals in the international fleet today, there should be no room for complacency. Striving for global competency and efficiency has and will always be the key.

He also stated that if we take into account the several ancillary services related to the seafaring industry, such as port operations, cargo handling, ship building and repair, ship or crew management, maritime education and training, or even in investment banking, the prospects available for us are limitless.

Maritime voice.

It has been a busy and productive year.

Without a doubt, the seafaring industry’s course has started to change with the key programs advanced by the government.

With Angkla’s presence, there is a new found importance provided to Philippine maritime industry: its voice to constantly reverberates in the national and global landscape.

Based on his tract, national observers consider Manalo as an emerging breed who are public servants, noble and gutsy.

More so with the public turn-offs against so many reported scandals of greed, of corruption in government.

He could be a candle lighting the darkness. This freshman solon could show veterans how it is, what should be.

Manalo is a lawyer, a good one. But foremost, a borne Seafarer navigating vicious waters of governance and policy compromises.

ISP SECOND OFFERING The Integrated Seafarers of the Philippines (ISP) adds another step towards success for seafarers wishing better employment. ISP now conducts free seminar on manning, ship management, maritime education and training.

ISP seminars on investment and livelihood has been conducted for seafarers and their families every last Friday of the month from 9am to 4pm.

This new seminar is every Saturday, same time and venue, for eight Saturdays to complete.

“Graduates” of the seminar will be listed at the ISP pool qualified persons for employment in the manning sector for free charge.

Among the lecturers are ISP Board of Directors Capt. Constantino ‘Jun’ Arcellana, Capt. Reynold ‘Burt’ Sabay, Capt. Hernando ‘ Nanding’ Eusebio and other Invited Speakers.

Basic knowledge in Crewing and Ship management seminar includes: • • • • • • • • •

Understanding POEA Rules and Regulations POEA Standard Employment Contract and CBA’s for Seafarers Human elements in recruitment Communication with principals and ship managers Flag state regulations ISO and ISM regulations MLC and STCW Convention Charter Parties and Insurance Other Related topics

Basic Knowledge in Maritime Education and Training Seminar includes: • • • •

Understanding MARINA and regulations MLC and STCW Convention CHED Regulation Primer of 6:09 and 3:12

• • •

How to make Syllabus/Module Teaching Methodology Other related topics

ISP President Gaudencio ‘Jess’ Morales underscores such projects make concrete the principle of payback: sharing to the community time and talent for the better of all.

Radio.

Capt. Jess Morales also hosts ISP’s radio program, Gabay ng Pamilyang Marino (GPM or Guide of Seafarers Families). It airs over DZ\IQ Radyo Inquirer, 990 AM every Saturday at 4:30 to 6:00 pm.

Co-hosts are Ms. Marielle Tibayan, Atty.

Jann Pelayo, Dr. Jill Casacop and Ariane Langit.

Gabay o GPM is primed to broadcast the various projects of ISP and developments in the maritime industry and related areas.

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35

SHIPBUILDING

SONAME Chairman Sam Lim calls for industry reforms.

SONAME DRIVES FOR REFORMS There never was a dull moment in the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SONAME) Technical Symposium held October 24th at the Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros, Manila.

Executive Director Pedro Aguilar, Philippine Registry of Shipping President Procopio Vergel de Dios and Orient Registry of Shipping VP Miguel Gonzales are agreed also for the implementation of only one CS.

truly implement first of all standards and implement consistently in order to ensure maritime safety.”

Industry leaders, stakeholders, practitioners and students actively participated in the seminar dubbed as “Sharing Best Practices in Ship Technologies.”

From eight in 2001, the country presently has six recognized agencies classifying local vessels.

Vergel de Dios says that discussing the issue is a taboo because it has already been closed

by MARINA Circular 2009-24, adopting a single government recognized classification society.

Realities of the industry were presented, data collated and analysed, knowledge and views shared for pushing for reforms as common goal.

SONAME Chairman Sammuel Lim facilitated the discussions, throwing in challenging leads and recommendations.

One class. “...So what are we waiting for…We’re all part of this Philippines, Inc. Our image is at stake here. Yes, we’re No. 1 Filipino seafaring supplying nation of the world.

We’re very proud of that.

But the result is we are also Guiness Book of World Recordholder for the worst maritime disaster in the world,” exclaims Engr. Lim after hearing that the panellists are in common agreement for a one classification society (CS).

Philippine Interisland Shipping Association

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“Some shipowners would try to go from one CS to another if a shipowner wants to save a certain requirement on the ship, we have seen that with the advent of so many local class.

I’m not saying that totally, nagkakaroon ng (having) deterioration of the quality of standards, the quality of service that is being rendered by classification society. But somehow there were, mayroong konting pagbaba sa (there’s a little downside to) quality,” observes Aguilar.

Gonzales admits, “...as also observed and recognized by IACS (International Association of Classification Societies), is that the weakness of CS is that they are paid by the shipowners, and therefore they competed for business and this now leads to a less stringent implementation of the rules than their competitors, in order to stay in business.

(I)nthe ORC we are okay for a single class provided, however, that this CS will

Regulations.

De Dios reiterates that circular was adopted as response to their group’s position against the then MARINA Administrator Atty. Oscar Sevilla Circular 165 in 2001 opening the classification of ships to other groups “to avoid monopoly and level the playing field.”

But De Dios insists, “A classification society is not there for business. This monopoly being under the Constitution only applies to commercial undertakings. Class society is like a quasi government agency because its objective is to help or assist the government in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea and the protection of the marine environment. In fact, that’s the reason why all class societies to be accredited must be registered non-stock nonprofit.”

He further states, the circular took effect Dec 31, 2009, “(H)owever, then DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza issued an advisory, not a memo circular, addressed

to then Administrator Len Bautista, deferring Circular 2009-24 … until further consultations are made.”

Almost five years have passed, they have not conducted any public consultations. So up to now, Circular 2009-24 is not being implemented due to an advisory and lack of public consultations.

Feeling there is a legal anomaly here, De Dios wrote then MARINA Administrator Emerson Lorenzo who did not reply even with follow-up letters.

He wrote again MARINA, hoping the new Administrator Max Mejia, Jr. will be more responsive.

CS arose from requirements of and only for marine insurance. Underwriters then should be able to determine the risks they are entering in insuring vessels. Surveyors have to look at the vessel’s condition, estimate the risk and then ask for the right premium.

•

Lawmaking.

• “The problem with circulars is it will be passed and subject to change by the winds or feeling of whoever is the Administrator or the Secretary. A law cannot be change... come up with the position paper... let’s bring this discussion into a proposed bill, and I am committed to sponsor it. Let’s move forward now.

Because safety is an issue that belongs to

Backdrop.

De Dios further recalls that MARINA conceptualized the single CS in 1978 and supported the PRS. “When a Letter Authority of Import is issued, among the conditions is that classification must be by one governmentrecognized CS which Manalo with De Dios and Dela Torre on discussions. was then PRS. So we are able to develop and for 12 years we are the only the shipowners, to the government and single CS supported by government.” more importantly to the riding public... And I feel this one area that can be inserted, In 1989, the Philippine Association of incorporated or look into very carefully,” Naval Architects and Marine Engineers reacts Manalo.

(PANAME) was registered at SEC as the PRS. Manalo is in-charge of the sub-committee for the national safety transport board that “We just had our Silver Anniversary last is now being created. Among his bills filed June 26. So for 25 years we have been to improve the countrys’ domestic shipping classing vessels and I’m proud to say that are: for those 25 years no casualty arose which can be traceable to faulty classing.”

• HB 03270 “An act Modernizing the Practice of Naval Architecture and De Dios was with MARINA from 1975 to Marine Engineering in the Philippines 1989, sometime in 1978 as board secretary and Repealing for this Purpose and legal counsel. MARINA came up with Republic Act 4565, otherwise known a project called the establishment of a as ‘The Naval Architecture and Philippine class society patterned after the Marine Engineering Law, pending IACS trending with major countries with with the Committee on Civil Service just one CS. and Professional Regulation since November 2013;

HB 04550 “An Act Amending Certain Provisions of Republic Act No. 7471 as Amended by Republic Act no.

9301, entitled ‘An act to Promote the Development of the Philippine Overseas Shipping’ and for Other Purposes, pending with the Committee on Ways And Means since June, 2014; HB 03647“An Act Establishing the Scope and Procedure for Philippine Registry, Recognition and Enforcement of Maritime Claims and Limitation of Liability, as well as Providing Essential Incentives, which Collectively will Promote a Comprehensive and Orderly Philippine Ship Registry System for the Regulation of Vessels Carrying the Flag State, pending with the Committee on Transportation since January 2014.

Engr. Lim believes, “… a shipowner would like to pay the right fees with the right value. So if I am paying fee to the CS I know I get something out of it because he will be telling if my vessels are seaworthy. So that’s ok, that’s really acceptable.”

In the meantime, he suggests to implement the transfer of class procedure like what IACS is already doing.

Before an owner could transfer from one class to another, the owner needs to finish all the recommendations first.

Moreover, Engr. Ronie Bontor, GM of Safi Shipyard proposes: If a single CS is not feasible yet, MARINA should ask the six existing CS to submit their minimum tariff rates. And in order to minimize charges, send our naval architects/ surveyors to other regions, then the six CS adopt the regional class surveyors.

Editor’s Note: Abstract from proceedings of SONAME Technical Symposium, Oct. 24, 2014)

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Atienza-Alampay-Enrile Views

Ph Registry Issues and Reforms

In 1988 there are around 400 ships registered under Philippine flag. In 2013, it plunged to 117.

In 2005, the highest tax payment of bareboat chartered ships was P105,515,000; in 2013, it declined to P46,000,832 only.

Presently, there are 110 bareboat chartered ships and two owned- ships registered under Philippine flag. Mostly bulk carrier, general cargo and RORO and trading in Asia and Europe. There are 65 accredited overseas shipping companies with MARINA. “Hindi pa naman kami nawawalan ng pagasa. In fact by next year, may naka pipeline na 25 kasi pag nag-iimprove naman ang ating international maritime community, kasama rin naman tayo roon, mag mo move forward. At sana madagdagan pa,” says MARINA Overseas Shipping Office Division Chief Nenita Atienza. (Loosely, we have not lost hope. There are 25 in the pipeline. When the international situation improves, we expect additions.)

The world’s top ten registries are Panama, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Hong Kong, Singapore, Greece, Malta, Bahamas, China and Cyprus. The Philippines has been ranked 29th or 0.01% of the total 17,000 registered worldwide.

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the economics which we need to move forward.

Liberalize.

Atienza admits MARINA and stakeholders are agreed the decline on Philippine registry since 2000 are due to: •

Time-bounded and less attractive fiscal incentives Atienza is sad incentives expired last July and they have been following up the revival.

•

Antiquated and unresponsive ship mortgage law MARINA is awaiting for the passage Manalo’s HB 04450 to update the country’s antiquated shipping laws.

•

Lack of financing scheme to fund ship acquisition

•

Limited foreign equity participation (60% Filipino-owned and 40% foreignowned) Other flags such as Panama, Liberia, Marshal Islands and Hong Kong do not require nationality share in ownership.

But we suspend dual flags here.

Atienza laments when Constitutional amendments are discussed, only the political aspects are touched and not

•

Nationality requirement In open registries, with incentives, others have no nationality requirements.

If you get a ship in the Philippines, you must have 100% Filipino crew aboard.

Tax Incentives.

Fililpino Shipowners Association President Dario Alampay confirms, “(One of the hurdles) on how to improve further ships under Philippine registry are the fiscal incentives (because in) major registries (their) fiscal incentives are unlimited not time bound…

We in the overseas shipping sector are pushing our government to adopt the same… We have been saying if you have a strong, substantial fleet of Philippine registered vessels, national registered vessels, somehow it will help the country in other ways (not only in) tax.

(We see in) Panama, Liberia they are small nations but they are reaping the fruits of having a registry that is considered major in the world. (This is shown) in terms of foreign exchange earnings, fees being collected from ships being registered.

Even Singapore, a late-comer in the shipping industry, is fast becoming a major ship industry. When it liberalized its ship registry, many ancillary and auxiliary services positioned their offices in Singapore. This resulted into many ship managers; ship repair industry improved since they are at the crossroads of international fleet, explains Alampay.

Capt. Ronald SJ Enrile, Senior VP for Marine Management of Philippine Transmarine Carriers, observes the Philippines 32% on net income or 2% of gross profits whichever is higher.

But Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Greece, Panama, they are all exempted; except for Vietnam with the same 32% tax on bareboat.

Income taxes of seafarers are all exempt; tax on bareboat charter, we levy 4.5% .

“These are the things that we have to look at so that we can be competitive in the international market,” underscores Enrile.

Furthermore, Alampay recalls Marcos Presidential Decree, that as incentive, Philippine registered ships shall be given priority to carry government-owned cargos.

But Enrile confirms “trading arrangement relative to government cargo is not implemented properly.”

Support.

Enrile, also Angkla sector representative, asks to support HB No. 3647 filed their first nominee, Cong. J. Manalo, adding “...And once this is passed, we still have a lot of things to do..(I)n international conferences, in the exhibitions, there a lot of flag states offering their ship registries…

Other measures.

MARINA is also undergoing technical assistance project studies, to develop an online application, processing and issuance of certificates.

Atienza confirms measures to market the Philippine registry such as setting up offices in other countries was already proposed by the Agency, hoping for the approval of the budget next year.

Confidence.

Enrile continues, “So this is a challenge.

We have the people. I think we have the advantage. And the other question is can MARINA handle this?”

During the transition of RA 10635 wherein all STCW functions moved to MARINA, there were some glitches, there were delays on the release of certificates. But Enrile believes these are being addressed now.

Taking more on the issue of flag registry, Capt. Enrile expounds, “We need to prepare for this or we can have it privatize. If you look at Panama, Liberia, Marshall Island, their main registry offices are not in their own countries…Liberia and Marshall islands in the US..Can we do it? I think we can. It depends on how we will formulate the law.”

Alampay says, “Many experts are saying that maybe if the Philippine government can put its acts together not only in the registry, the Philippines is a much suitable place to really improve our maritime industry.

Then as we go on, Philippine ship industry by natural flow of events will increase its fleet and with the support of government especially now that we have our Congressman pushing for all these legislative maritime bills ... Then by natural course of events, we will have a strong maritime nation.”

Editor’s Note: Abstract from proceedings of SONAME Technical Symposium, Oct. 24, 2014)

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MARINO WORLD

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MARINA Daniel Reyes on progressive import ban.

NO TO TOTAL BAN OF USED SHIPS PISA Executive Director Aguilar says the association is not supporting the proposed importation ban of second-hand vessels for the time being.

“While we are supportive of our local shipyards and naval architects, the shipowners are adhering to the realities, present state of doing business. Talagang napaka expensive dito sa atin (It is really very expensive here).”

Aguilar cites the cost of electricity and drydocking as examples. Aside from the lapsed incentives on tax for the shipowners.

He also notes in their survey that it costs 3.5% times less to have their vessels dry docked in China than in the Philippines.

Depends.

While calling on the government regulators and lawmakers to take into account to make the environment for shipbuilding more competitive to shipowners, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SONAME) Chairman Sammuel Lim expressed support on the progressive restriction of importation of vessels.

Although Philippines is ranked No. 5 in the world as a shipbuilding nation because of the Tsuneishi and Hanjin, those are mostly for export vessels.

MARINA Shipyards Regulation Service Officer Daniel Reyes says at the moment there is no ban on importation of ships.

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But as the law says, MARINA is now conducting the assessment on the Philippine ship building capability.

“We roughly analyze the demand for local construction… determine the number, types of ships locally built in shipyards according to its capacity…Once assessment (is over), recommendation is progressive restriction of importation (gradual implementation),” clarifies Engr. Reyes.

Lim supports the program. He explains, “Yes its cheaper and everything (to import) but hopefully the shipowners would take into account the stability, the suitableness, the sitting characteristic of these vessels, to observe how it was originally designed and operated in the Philippines is also observed.

Because I see and note a lot of modifications being done…that’s why we have these accidents. We’re here to be consulted, for free.

Naval architects are there all over the country. And they’re all capable, competent designers and shipbuilders… Of course here, as naval architects we’ll love to design our own vessels really suited for Philippine waters….of course it’s so expensive to build…We will still do, start with small vessels and go up,” says Lim.

Engr. Edward Cruz, President of Sea Rudder Corporation recalls “In Marcos time, they already banned importing vessels. What the Philippines did, we construct vessels in our own. (That’s why shipbuilding increased here.) (Because of the boom, I took up Naval Architecture. But on graduating came the coup d’ etat), After one year, in Cory’s time, opened importation. That’s the time naval architecture (flourished due to so many imports of vessels). After decades (they say Pilipinos no longer build ships).

They already forgot in Marcos time, (we were building classed vessels. We were building ABS before, wonder why we have forgotten.)”

Recycling.

The Association of Shipyards in the Philippines, through its representative Engr. Glenn Dela Torre, underscores that we should review the policy of banning the importation of vessels.

Dela Torre explains, “We have tried it so many times in the past. It cannot be done because Number One that would be against it is the shipowner. Because you have to have in mind that when a shipowner invests on the ship, the window opportunity for him to have an acceptable return of investment is 5 to 7 years.”

Marcos era.

It was in the Marcos regime when importation of vessels was banned, making naval architecture in demand.

He also underscores opportunities and challenges in ship recycling. “(W)hether it is feasible (importation ban), we have came to an agreement among our

association… In order to comply with and satisfy the requirement between new building and importation of second-hand ships proposed the in between called recycled ships.

We have found an alternative in between. The Number One problem if we build a local ship is that 80% of the components are all imported.

You have an option wherein you can dismantle the ship, get some of its parts which can be re-use(d), then you put it on the ships which are now under so called new built. In that way, there’s clear definition, so that the financing companies will come in.”

He challenges the naval architects, “Although I can perhaps say that up to this time there have been significant improvements in the capability of local designers to come up with innovations in order to adjust and react to what is needed in today’s needs.

We have to react and respond to the needs, you have come up with modifications so

that these existing fleet can be modified and operated in accordance with the local requirements so that it can become a sustainable activity.”

It also addresses concerns raised about the working and environmental conditions at many of the world’s ship recycling locations.

International confab.

The text of the Hong Kong Convention was developed over three and a half years, with input from IMO Member States and relevant non-governmental organizations, and in cooperation with the International Labour Organization and the Parties to the Basel Convention.

The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009 (the Hong Kong Convention), was adopted at a diplomatic conference held in Hong Kong, China, from 11 to 15 May 2009, which was attended by delegates from 63 countries.

The Convention is aimed at ensuring that ships, when being recycled, do not pose any unnecessary risks to human health, safety and to the environment.

The Hong Kong Convention intends to address all the issues on ship recycling, including the fact that ships sold for scrapping may contain environmentally hazardous substances such as asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, ozonedepleting substances and others.

Regulations in the new Convention cover: the design, construction, operation and preparation of ships so as to facilitate safe and environmentally sound recycling without compromising the safety and operational efficiency of ships.

It also includes the operation of ship recycling facilities in a safe and environmentally sound manner; and the establishment of an appropriate enforcement mechanism for ship recycling, incorporating certification and reporting requirements.

As of October 17, 2014, Philippines has not ratified the Hong Kong Convention of 2009.

SONAME Officers’ Perspective

SHIP BUILDING BEST PRACTICES DESIGN AND BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES

Bontor, Safi Shipyard GM

Cruz, Sea Rudder Pres.

Four officers of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SONAME) have expressed professional views on the country’s potentials in shipbuilding, ship design and ship repair, namely: •

Engr. Edward Cruz, President of Sea Rudder Corporation;

•

Mr. Ricardo Tuliao, President of Tuliao Shipyard (SONAME- Luzon)

•

Engr. Jerome Manuel, Operations Manager of Southern Philippines Shipbuilder and Shiprepair Corporation; and

•

Engr. Ronie Bontor, General Manager of Safi Ship Shipyard (SONAMEVizMin)

Tuliao, Tuliao Shipyard Pres.

average of 50 vessels being constructed in GenSan every year. He and Engr. Celso Buenafe, manager of Cubname Marine Services, built a roro ferry in Samal.

Philippines... (Should MARINA initiates that we a) standard for the Philippine-made, (it can be done and) if possible care of SONAME.”

“(Maybe GenSan) in the next five years, (will be) center of repair ship, (will develop) into a technical hub.

Technology.

Actually right now we really need naval architects there. (Those shipyards without naval architects yet), we do the retraining for them. (But we cannot absorb) for the next two or five years. (We need to involve more people as volume increases each year),” says Manuel.

National Standard.

“In GenSan, it is really a silent-type doing of shipbuilding. (There’s no update on what we are doing in Mindanao), ” says Bontor.

He adds, “(S)hipyards in GenSan do 120 tunnel service boat/carrier and maybe next year will increase to 160 tunnel vessels depending on the budget of the shipowners.

Service vessel can be done within 2 to 3 months as long as materials and finances are there. The owners are funding the vessel.

It can also be funded by a shipyard, it depends upon the MOA. Materials used are purchased from Manila and Korea.”

Engr. Manuel reports that there are an

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Manuel, SPSSC Manager

The four agree on the implementation of a national standard in shipbuilding.

“When the shipbuilding in the Philippines started, Lloyd’s Registry and American Bureau of Shipping (entered and) they have different standards. Although they have similarity but sometimes they differ in (terminologies).

For us to progress in shipbuilding, we need to come up with national standard but it needs people to work on it on different levels,” says Manuel.

Bontor adds, “(A)ctually, we would like to encourage MARINA if possible if they can conduct a certain quorum inviting naval architects to realize this program like the standard for shipbuilding in the

SONAME President Ma. Teresa DaguioMamisao reports the purchase of Maxsurf software costing PhP2-million, as endorsed

by MARINA Shipyards Regulation Service and approved by Administrator Mejia.

Maxsurf provides naval architects, offshore engineers and shipbuilders with a complete range of software tools for all phases of the vessel design, analysis and construction process. All modules in the range operate from a single 3D surface model which allows design changes to flow through automatically and facilitates smooth communication and coordination between different design activities.

“It is now with our back committee… (We selected Maxsurf we check the plans) for us to make it easier, (faster and better to) check stability, loadline and everything…it will be used by the central office for Phase One of the project; (thereafter, to the regions),” says Mamisao.

Other topics.

Other subjects presented in the symposium are: •

Enhancing MLC 2006 Compliance thru Modern Communication

Systems by Bernard Santos of Smart Communications; •

Safety and Reliability Technology by Engr. Joylan Nadal, Vice President of Aguila Group of Companies;

•

Anti-Fouling Technology – Silyl Acrylate by Mr. George Lim, Regional Manager of Jotun (Singapore) Ltd.;

•

Auxiliary Engines Overhauling and Maintenance Course by Muramatsu Akihiro, Sales Manager of Daikai Philippines Corporation.

New generation.

The present generation of naval architects and marine engineers remains optimistic despite the discouraging realities in their profession and the industry.

Lian Elucero, a Naval Architecture graduating student of the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS), says, “For me I will continue in this career ‘cause I know that there are some people who wants or willing to help for us to surpass these problems… I hope that someday when I become a licensed naval architect these problems have some solutions already.”

Arby Rose Habayhabay, also from AIMS, says in Tagalog, “It seems our parents are just forcing us into this. But comes the realization we are meant to be Naval Architect despites the Math and the drawings.”

Primrose Rodas board topnotcher in 2009, “It’s not a secret to all of us that there is really a problem with regards to our industry. And we will be hypocrite to say that were already at our peak, rather in our best. But I really believe that it’s not a matter of how we start but how we end it, how we end our career. “ We may … start lower… but look at where they are now… (H)ow much more, how far can we go from there. So I believe that with the current active participation of everybody

in the naval architecture field this will not stay the same. This will be the lowest we will ever be…

Softwares coming in, trainings are being held, symposiums are being conducted, surveys are being done, so it simply shows we are proactive, we are going somewhere.

It’s also an indication that it should not stop with Sir Sam and the second generation, it should proceed, It’s not meant to be stagnant, it’s about being proactive.”

Promising.

In the registry of PRC, there is like 700 registered naval architects since 1960. Out of that, SONAME has only half at 250 membership. The rate of board passers then was 5 to 10 from a batch of 20 examinees, or 30 at best.

This year, more than 100 took the exams and 57 passed.

Still small but already recordbreaking with an upward to boot.

And for the first time, a PartyList Congressman from Angkla is representing the maritime industry, arguably focused on the concerns and directions of the sector.

Lim keeps strong faith Filipinos can design and build ships and insists, “We have a very big pool of naval architects. Our masters and engineers are all world class… (T)echnical experts are there I think it’s just a matter of restructuring what we do in this maritime safety regime.

Practically, naval architects have been overtaken by Pinoy seafarers to be Number One in the world … We have a good pool of captains, chief engineers and it is now a good opportunity that naval architects be the third and final cog in that structure for maritime success.

We can be a global power, definitely, in a true sense of the word...because we have shipowners here, shipyards, shipbuilders, ship registry, but we need to do all the structural reforms to make this work, so for us.

SONAME is just one part (of many organizations). We need to work together.”

And with stirrings in his voice, Lim ends with, “I challenge all our stakeholders here. Let’s get our act together, once and for all improve our maritime safety in the Philippines. It’s about time.”

Editor’s Note: Abstract from proceedings of SONAME Technical Symposium, Oct. 24, 2014)

From the Editors of

Marino World

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FREE! ! !

Informative. Entertaining.

Published by BASMS 521-3633 maritimanews@gmail.com

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43

Training

WSP Maritime Training Center, Inc.

NOW IN FULL MISSION The WSP Maritime Training Center, Inc (WSPMTCI) launches its latest Transas NTPro 5000 Full Mission Bridge Simulator last September 3rd.

David recalls the center started in 2011 as in-house training center of its manning agency, Western Shipping Southeast Asia, Inc.

This is a significant addition to the facilities in the expanded WSPMTCI simulator room located at the Room 1802 Prestige Tower F. Ortigas Jr. Avenue at the posh Ortigas Center in Pasig City.

“And it evolves through the years as a legitimate Training Center with accredited training courses by then Maritime Training Center, and now by the Maritime Industry Authority,” Mr. David shares.

The state-of-the-art simulator is a grant from the International Maritime Training Trust IMTT). This will enable WSPMTCI to offer Full Mission Bridge Simulator Courses and Deck Watch keeping Course as soon as MARINA accredits the courses.

The mission and vision of WSPMTCI, is to continuously enhance its training standards to the fullest potential and consequently meet the general and specialized requirements not only of their own Principals but of the Philippine manning industry.

Also, during the said launch, WSPMTCI President Mr. Manuel V. David announced the plan for the acquisition of the Full Mission Engine Room Simulator that would complement the new Full Mission Bridge Simulator.

Partners.

The event also shows tripartism with industry leaders like:

Ceremonial ribbon with David, Estaniel, Oca and Tormon

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•

Capt. Alvin Tormon, MARINA STCW Executive Director;

•

Mr. Michael Estaniel, International Maritime Employers Committee Philippine Representative; and

•

Dr. Conrado Oca, Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines President.

Capt. Belal Ahmed, CEO of Western Shipping Pte. Limited of Singapore says, “We know training is expensive. We need the support from the authorities like MARINA, from the industry body like IMEC and obviously we all know how much AMOSUP has always dreamed for the quality training of the Filipino seafarers.

We believe that deep in our heart, we really wish to see more of these as doing something for the officers and crew of this company, the Filipino seafarers and the Manning Industry as a whole.

We wish that one day in the future,

WSP execs and guests at the full mission bridge simulator

everybody will say that Mr. David has done a good job to give the Filipino seafarers the proper trainings needed.”

Dir. Tormon on his part reported on the updates on MARINA’s efforts to satisfy EMSA, and calls on the stakeholders present to, “Let us all help each other.

Rest assured that this new facility of yours will be inspected in due time.”

While, Dr. Oca remarked, “Thank you for having this training facility for the benefit of our Filipino seafarers…We are all partners here, social partners. (I) wish everybody who will study and train here will be more successful and gainfully employed.”

Courses.

At present the WSPMTCI offers MARINA accredited courses for officers and ratings, viz: • •

•

Consolidated MARPOL 73/78 IMO Model Course 3.19 SHIP SECURITY OFFICER 2012 (SSO 2012) IMO Model Course 3.26/3.27 Security Training for Seafarers

• •

• •

with Designated Security Duties and Security Awareness Training (SDSDSAT) IMO Model Course 1.14 Medical First Aid (MEFA) IMO Model Course 1.27 ECDIS 2012 (utilizing TRANSAS SIMULATORS, NTPro 5000/NAVISAILOR 4000) IMO Model Course 1.07 RNRPA (utilizing TRANSAS SIMULATORS, NTPro 5000 / NAVISAILOR 4000)

WSPMTCI also offers Maritime Resource Management (MRM), a four (4) days course that is recognized by the stakeholders as an important full course for seafarers. The MRM is a special course developed in India to train officers to work together and understand each other. Part of the course is going forward with the use of the simulator to put the officers in real-life situations, to train them to work together and avoid the accidents and disasters that have been seen for the last 20 or 30 years.

WSPMTC also offers in-house training courses, viz:

• • • • • • •

• • •

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

Seafarers from companies who are members of the International Maritime Employers Committee (IMEC) are privileged with an additional 10% discount.

WSP Maritime Training Center Inc. is conveniently located at 1710 Prestige Tower, F. Ortigas Jr Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

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Manning

OROLA FOR HEALTH WATCH “Although we are valued professionals in this global industry, we have to remember that many nationalities are aiming to replace us.

We have to fight to stay on the top.

We can do this only by being ahead, keeping up with technological developments and doing the best that we can in our job as a seafarer.”

Fiery words, from Engr. Tom Orola, as guest speaker at the Professional Regulation Commission Oath-taking ceremonies for new marine engineers on August 13th at the Centennial Hall, Manila Hotel.

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“Now is not the time to be complacent. We have to adhere to the changes affecting compliance to STCW requirements. We need to have the necessary compliance in terms of qualification, competence, over-all health and mental condition for this profession. These are the primary aspects in achieving our goal of maintaining our post as the indemand supplier of marine officers,” adds Orola.

The multi-awarded engineer recalls being in the crewing industry for almost 34 years. Having been a seafarer, he knows firsthand and have

seen the struggle and challenges that seafarers encounter in each and every contract.

Being away from family and loved ones, trading rest and recreation just to review, take the licensure exams, attend numerous trainings and seminars are the sacrifices that one takes in advancing career, reminds Orola to the graduates.

Body, too.

All of these are every important, admits Orola, on top of overall mental fitness.

Year 2008 brought in adversities, increased P & I claims. What shipowners fear most is ailments on the seafarers. By and large, Filipinos at 40 years gets sick and perpetually take maintenance medication. They go home from the hospital and die later for illness they are not even aware of.

Orola confides manning agencies are aware of these and watch out medical certificates and the results.

Diabetic persons are increasing but not much of a problem because the malady can be regulated. So with hypertension. But it cannot be hidden that at 40, physical health goes down even with those working on land.

Diet watch is a good way to control, better done with the help of wives and partners. Relatives will be of help as a fit seafarer will continuously be aboard, in-demand by principals, assures the engineer.

About Orola.

For almost 34 years, Engr. Tom Orala is president of Orophil Shipping International.

He initiated three sister companies involved in shipbuilding and dry docking operations, specifically in steel and iron works.

OKT Corporation, Kura Philippines and Philippine Nippon AOI Industry teamed to provide a training ground for marine engineers and Filipino welders. He pressed ties with Japanese Shipyard Kawazaki Souzen, Miyoshi Souzen and Kurinoura Dockyard.

He established Orophil Ship Management Corporation and instrumental in acquiring in 1987 Visayan Maritime Academy now named VMA Global College

Orola is a Trustee and corporate secretary of Asian Maritech Development Corp, owns and operates VMA Global College, VMA Training Center, VMA Security Training Institute He holds a Masters degree in maritime management and only units away from a doctoral degree in maritime management. But he holds a doctorate in divinity, honoris causa, for his devoted services to God and fellowmen.

Engr. Tom Orola has been recognized:

•

2008 Tinig ng Marino Most Outstanding Marine Engineer

•

POEA 2005 Agency Performance

•

2002 Most Outstanding Professional (Marine Engineering)

•

2000 Most Outstanding Seafarer

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FEATURE

EDUCATORS AMONG PCG AWARDEES

Salabas with The President

Maritime educators are among the 24 awardees of the Philippine Coast Guard announced during the 113rd Anniversary celebrations last October 16th at the PCG headquarters, in Port Area, Manila.

Salabas is the Chairman of VMA Global College in Bacolod City and the President of the Philippine Maritime Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI).

•

CG Station of the Year Class “Bravo”

• The awarding is the highlight of this year’s celebrations dubbed as “Matuwid na Pagtatanod Baybayin Tungo sa Maayos at Mapayapang Karagatan.”(Correct Coastline Watch Towards Proper and Peaceful Waters)

•

For invaluable support to the Philippine Coast Guard, for providing world-class maritime and nautical training since 2009 and for the utilization of its facilities during the conduct of the PCG Aptitude and Battery.

President Benigno Simeon Aquino III handovers the plaques assisted by Transportation and Communication Secretary Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya and PCG Commandant Isorena to Coast Guard officers, personnel, civilians and private institutions with outstanding contributions.

Commo. Elizabeth Orola Salabas, PCGA, Best Auxiliary Officer of the Year Instrumental in the creation and implementation of the PCG NSTP CWTS Program and persuaded schools to adopt the said program.

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CG Station Aparri (CG District North Eastern Luzon) CG Station of the Year Class “Charlie”

•

CG Sub-station Liminangcong (CG District Palawan) CG Sub-station of the Year

•

SN2 Oliver M. Mazo 007422 PCG (CG District Palawan) Enlisted Personnel of the Year

Arlene and Lino are the President and Vice President of AIMS, respectively.

Among them are:

•

Commo. Lino Paterno Paderanga, PCGA and wife Arlene Plaque of appreciation for the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS)

CG Station General Santos (CG District Southeastern Mindanao)

•

Other awardees are:

•

CG Station Cebu (CG District Central Visayas) CG Station of the Year Class “Alpha”

Mr. Antonio T. Villamin Jr. (CG District NCR-CL) Civilian Employee of the Year

•

Diesel Fast (DF) – 314 Small Craft of the Year

•

•

DA BFAR MCS - 3003

CG District Southwestern Mindanao

Category I Vessel of the Year

Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal and Ribbon Awardee

•

•

BRP Nueva Vizcaya (SARV -3502) Category II Vessel of the Year

•

602nd Auxiliary Squadron PCGA Squadron of the Year

•

•

Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal and Ribbon Awardee

Coast Guard Working Dog “Bosh”

Best Auxiliary District of the Year

•

Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG)

•

Col. Bruce M. Murray AM Australian Defence Attache

• •

Director, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

Plaque of Appreciation bestowed for the invaluable support to the PCG:

Best Auxiliary Division of the Year

Best Auxiliarist of the Year

Mr. Noriaki Niwa Chief Representative, JICA Phil

PO2 Marcelino Alemania PCGA

•

M/Gen Rene C. Samonte APF (Ret) President, AFPBAI

•

Commo. Leopoldo V. Laroya 0-9856 PCG, District Commander,

•

Atty. Asis G. Perez

RADM William M. Melad 0-8684 PCG, District Commander CG District Central Visayas

CG Auxiliary District National Capital Region-Central Luzon

612.3 Auxiliary Division

President, Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center; FilipinoChinese Charitable Associations

Dr. James Go

Award of Coast Guard Search and Rescue Medal and Ribbon For being instrumental in recovering four cadavers during the search and retrieval operations in the aftermath of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol.

PCG is a multi-mission maritime agency tasked to promote safety of life and property at sea, protect the marine environment, enforce maritime laws and conduct maritime security operations.

While actually the third uniformed service of the country, it is most aggressive, and effective, in its partnership with the private sector in coastal watch and disaster responses.

Abuid-Paderanga couple, PNoy and Sec. Abaya

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Ports

PPA GM Sta. Ana.

UNCTAD Workshop

PPA GEARS UP FOR ASEAN 2015 “What is the impact of this to our ports, to the supply chain and to all of us? What must we do to be able to prepare well for this economic integration?”

This is the challenging opener of Ports Authority (PPA) GM Juan Sta. Ana as he opens the First International Port Performance Workshop in Manila.

Some 25 senior port managers from the Philippines, Benin, Indonesia, Namibia, Tanzania and Peru attended the training at the Traders Hotel in Manila on October 28-31 organized by PPA in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

For the Philippines, participants include managers from PPA regional ports, Cebu Port Authority Asian Terminal and Manila North Harbor Port.

“I find the objectives of this workshop very timely not only for our organization but also regionally as we move closer to the integration of the ASEAN member countries and that is happening in 2015.

With this integration there is a need for us to have common matrix on which to compare performance, competitiveness of our ports nationally and regionally and

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this will allow us to determine exactly the areas where we must improve and invest on our resources. So as not to lag behind from our connecting and neighboring ports,” explains Sta. Ana.

we can do together, in getting a set of indicators that will be relevant to us to measure the performance, and a kind of benchmark so we can say we are in the right direction, and we can prove it with some sets of figures,” says Assaf.

UNCTAD. Established in 1964, UNCTAD promotes the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. UNCTAD has progressively evolved into an authoritative knowledgebased institution whose work aims to help shape current policy debates and thinking on development, with a particular focus on ensuring that domestic policies and international action are mutually supportive in bringing about sustainable development.

Participants were given the opportunity to be prepared on the changes and strategic reforms on modern seaports towards greater competitiveness based on higher standards of performance.

Several courses have so far been implemented by UNCTAD for PPA to increase its capabilities including the modern port management training as the first cycle in a span over a two-year period, from 2013.

Competitiveness.

UNCTAD Chief for Human Resources Development Mark Assaf and Drogheda Port Company Director Joseph Hiney facilitated the workshop focus on technical matters of data definition and sharing, as well as discussions on the structures required for a sustainable data sharing port community. “..We are trying to capitalize on what we build together using that privilege knowledge sharing, trying to see what

As a backgrounder, GM Sta. Ana cited the ASEAN economic blueprint adopted by the ASEAN leaders in 2007 to serve as a master plan in the establishment of the ASEAN economic community in 2015.

The AEC envisions the following key characteristics: •

A single market and production based;

• • •

A highly competitive economic region; A region with equitable economic development; Conceived region that has and fully integrated with our global economy.

These areas of cooperation include: • • • • • • • •

Human resources development capacity building; Recognition of professional qualification; Closer consultation on macro economics and financial policies; Trade financing; Enhanced infrastructures and communications connectivity; Development of electronic transactions through ASEAN; Integrating industries across the region for regional sourcing; Private sector involvement for the building of the ASEAN economic region.

Global rankings.

Department of Trade and Industry Zenaida Maglaya quoted World Bank Logistics Performance Index. The Global Ranking shows that out of 160 countries, Southeast Asia economies like Singapore ranked 5th, Malaysia 25th and Thailand 35th. Top 3 are Netherlands, Belgium and UK.

•

Timeliness of shipments in reaching destination within the schedule or expected delivery time

“Efficient port management where there are minimal and no delays in shipping and low rates of port congestion play an important role in lowering the cost of doing business, the cost of trade services, logistics and this encourages more investors to do business in a country.

Supply chains are crucial to achieving competitiveness. I guess it is very important for the importers and exporters to really know exactly what to expect when it comes to shipping, when it comes to delivery because delays really entail a lot of cost,” says Maglaya.

Department of Transportation and Communication Undersecretary Julianito Bucayan keynote speech was delivered by DOTC Asst Sec Lino Dhabi, for project monitoring and evaluation. RAdm Dhabi cites the important inputs from the 20132014 Global Competitiveness Index recently released by the World Economic Forum.

“In the period covered, the Philippines made dramatic improvements in different areas that lead track the country to 59th position out of 148 countries. 6 steps higher than its previous report and one track higher than India. This is by all measures, not a small accomplishment.

Though this is a cause for joy, the report however pointed out where the country is

…one thing in improvements..one of the areas mention is our seaports facilities, I believe includes port services as well.

We got a rank of 116 for seaport facilities the lowest under the infrastructure component indicators for the country while our airport facilities got 113.

This is a far cry from the ranks of some of our neighboring Southeast Asian countries with Singapore getting the highest rating,” observes Bucayan.

Malaysia is 24th, Brunei 26th, Thailand 37th, Indonesia, 38th, Cambodia 88th, Myanmar 139th.

Port congestion.

Bucayan underscores the adverse impact of port congestion in the Manila ports.

“Overall cost of the delays and lost business opportunities are estimated at more than 300 million according to the Federation of Philippine Industries. Some experts argue that congestion experienced in Manila ports was not just caused by expanded truck ban but by a lot of other contributory factors.

Understandably some quarters were asking why was this not predicted? But to me a more up question would have been this, how can we prevent this from happening again? …The present state of our port facilities, infrastructure and services contributed I’m sure to the crisis we had in our ports in Manila… I think it is more important

On the World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) Report 2014, the Philippines slipped to 57th place in the biennial report from 52nd in 2012, a fact unmentioned by Maglaya.

This study used these Indicators: • • •

• •

Customs efficiency or clearance process, Infrastructure, the quality of trade and transport infrastructure International shipments, the ease of arranging competitively priced shipments, Logistic competence, quality and competence of the logistic services Trucking and tracing (ability to track and trace consignments,

DOTC A/Sec Dhabi discusses with UNCTAD Assaf.

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PPA GEARS UP FOR ASEAN 2015

The delegates with guests.

that we look first at where we are now like in terms of facilities and services we provide at out ports. In short, our competitiveness.

If we want to impact the overall competitiveness of our country and increase our contribution to national development, we can start at looking at our data, at how we collect them and how we can utilize them, to determine our future strategies and plan to better competitiveness of our ports,” clarificatories from Bucayan.

Reactions.

Participants were toured to the facilities of the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) of the International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) in Port area, Manila.

Marino World sampled observations of foreign delegates, viz: •

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Widuz Mutwa, NAMPORT (National Port Authority in Namibia) operations manager, container terminal, says: “The time was too short, cause I by choice wanted to talk more to the operational

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the smallest manageable. Anything beyond that is such struggling if you don’t have, if you dump it anywhere, productivity suffers.”

people… what we saw there is the space challenges because of the port congestion.

It happens with all our ports, sometimes we are congested, just how you deal with the congestion... utilize your technology… how you handle the automation process.

It happens sometimes, particularly, we are not yet congested, end of November December gift items for Christmas, time to release, it’s a peak that normally have some kind of congestion. But our congestion is not so much on the length side, on the truck side, it’s more on the vessel side waiting to be given its berths.

The way we address the congestion is we are in constant communication with our clients.

So what we do is that we do monitoring, we know the capacity of our yard, if the yard is moving up, we can already warn shipping lines that we want them to evacuate. Because most of the problems is coming from the empty containers … once yard reached its leveled at 60-70%

•

Ntandu Mathayo, Tanzania Ports Authority principal planning officer says: “Actually, we didn’t have enough time to go at least to all the terminals …we went to only one terminal.. we want to visit the key site, to see the actual berth of ships…the info brought in the reception was good enough, it was the impression, how import parts, capacity, facilities available... yes, at the moment for the National Port, it’s very congested port because of at least 3 reasons. 1.

The port doesn’t have enough space 2. The access roads to and from the port; congested because the port is within the city 3. Road facilities are minimum…

To address: open for more ICDs (international container depots) put more facilities, example now we are planning to build two berths for containers. So congestion within the ports will no longer be a problem.”

Shipping Following FAL Convention Approval

MANDATORY ELECTRONIC INFORMATION EXCHANGE SOON The revised FAL Convention annex would introduce the mandatory electronic exchange of information on cargo, crew and passengers.

The Facilitation Committee (FAL), meeting for its 39th session, approved a revised annex to the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL), 1965, as amended, following a comprehensive five-year review aimed at modernizing the Convention.

To be circulated for adoption at the Committee’s next session (FAL 40 on March/April 2016), the revised annex would introduce the mandatory electronic exchange of information on cargo, crew and passengers.

The FAL convention includes, in its annex, “Standards” and “Recommended Practices” on formalities, documentary requirements and procedures which should be applied on arrival, stay and departure to the ship itself, and to its crew, passengers, baggage and cargo.

Important proposed changes in the revised Annex include the introduction of a new standard relating to the obligation of public authorities to establish systems for the electronic exchange of information, within a period of three years after the adoption of the amendments.

There would be a transitional period of not less than 12 months from the date of the introduction of such systems to make the use of electronic transmissions mandatory, during which period paper and electronic documents would be allowed.

for crew, including the addition of a paragraph in the standard to say that there should be no discrimination, in respect of shore leave, on grounds of nationality, race, colour, sex, religion, political opinion, or social origin, and irrespective of the flag State of the ship on which seafarers are employed, engaged or work.

Standards and recommended practices relating to stowaways are also updated, to include references to relevant sections of the International Ship and Port Facilities’ Security (ISPS) Code.

A further recommended practice encourages the use of the “single window” concept to enable all the information required by public authorities in connection with the arrival, stay and departure of ships, persons and cargo, to be submitted without duplication.

A new standard requires Governments to incorporate into their national legislation legal grounds to allow prosecution of stowaways, attempted stowaways and any individual or company aiding a stowaway or an attempted stowaway with the intention to facilitate access to the port area, any ship, cargo or freight containers.

Other revised standards cover shore leave and access to shore-side facilities

The IMO Standardized Forms (FAL forms) on will be updated, viz: •

IMO General Declaration

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

•

Cargo Declaration

From:

•

Ship’s Stores Declaration

•

Crew’s Effects Declaration

•

Crew List

•

Passenger List; and

•

Dangerous Goods.

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Definitions will also be revised and references to persons will be made gender neutral (“his/her” instead of “his”).

The new revised annex could enter into force 15 months after adoption, under the tacit acceptance procedure.

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Feature

BENCITO KEEPS THE FIRE President Irene de Padua Bencito keeps the shine on her Rotary Club of Makati Buendia (RCMB) as one of the biggest club in District 3830 of the Philippine territory.

Established in 1996, RCMB is one of the 34,000 Rotary clubs worldwide. It is an international family of neighbors, community leaders and global citizens from morethan 200 countries and geographical areas. They come together to exchange ideas and take action to improve communities around the world.

• • • • •

Disease prevention and treatment Water and sanitation Maternal and child health Basic education and literacy Economic and community development.

The iconic Four Way Test on a Rotarian personal thinking, action and speech are: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Shining moments.

Rotary International is on its 109th year with “Light up Rotary” as the theme for 2014-2015.

This inspires Ms. Bencito to focus Rotary’s Four-Way Test on: •

Peace and conflict prevention/ resolution

On top of civic works in RCMB, LadyIrene gained a fellow Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership during the 2014 International Leadership Conference and Chaplaincy Summit of ACTS-Philippines last May 24th at the Manila Ballroom, Manila Hotel.

Team RCMB with Rotary District 3830 Officers.

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Earlier on May 14th, Ms. Bencito was conferred the Testimonial of Recognition as Outstanding Public Servant in the Field of Leadership for her dedication in shaping the lives of constituents as Provincial Board Member of the 7th district of Cavite. She adheres to the Moral Recovery Program of the national government through the Chaplaincy Program.

Public life.

BM Bencito filed the benchmark ordinance that created the Migration Resources Center (MRC) of Cavite to help thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.

Among so many others, Irene also filed the resolution supporting the House bill of Cong. Leopoldo N. Bataoil declaring Baybayin as the national script. Also called Alibata, it is a writing system or alphabet used by Filipinos before the arrival of the Spaniards up to the second century of their colonization.

The old alphabet is composed of 17 basic characters, three vowels and fourteen consonants.

It is on the brink of extinction; hence, the passion of Ms. Bencito to help preserve the Filipino script as a national heritage.

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A Refreshing Addition to Paco’s Unique & Dynamic Landscape

VICINITY MAP ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE

ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE

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ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE