New maritime graduates were urged to maintain the Philippines' reputation as a global figure in the maritime industry in whichever career path they pursue.
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. leads the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) ‘MADASIKLAN’ Class of 2023 commencement exercises in San Narciso, Zambales on July 20, 2023. (RTVM Screenshot)
"Help the Philippines maintain its name as a global figure in the maritime industry and an asset to the entire world," President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. told the 224 cadets during Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) ‘MADASIKLAN’ Class of 2023 commencement exercises in San Narciso, Zambales on Thursday, July 20.
Marcos encouraged them to sustain the passion and resilience they have shown during their stint in the PMMA.
The President also urged them to avail themselves of the opportunity to make a change in society, and "to excel further and become the leaders that you were trained and meant to be."
He also acknowledged the graduates' hardwork in completing many stages of screening and evaluation under the PMMA.
"For the commitment, dedication and integrity that each of the 224 cadets have demonstrated during the years in the academy, I say to you you have done a good job," he said.
"This feat represents all that you have brought to the table so that we may fulfil the goals that you have set for your lives. This success also represents all the good these investments will bring in the future. Expect breakthroughs for yourselves, for your families and also for our country," he added.
The Chief Executive, meanwhile, called on all concerned agencies to coordinate closely with the PMMA to make the country's maritime education even more responsive to the needs of the nation while ensuring that whatever steps the country takes will be in compliance with laws and regulations.
HAPPENING NOW: President Marcos leads the 200th commencement exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) ‘MADASIKLAN’ Class of 2023 at the Grandstand of the PMMA Complex in San Narciso, Zambales. @manilabulletin pic.twitter.com/in1vPOrO6J
— Betheena Unite (@MB_unite) July 20, 2023
He also thanked the private shipping industry for the support that the PMMA has received, which is key to elevating the country's capabilities as a maritime nation.
"The government welcomes the private sector’s support in promoting quality maritime education and training that allows this industry to be more innovative, resilient, and adaptive to the ever changing world," Marcos said.
The PMMA is the pioneer institution in maritime education in the country. It has produced for years many master mariners, chief engineers, shipping executives, naval and coast guard officers, educators and trainers now serving in marine and maritime-related industries in the country and abroad.
Aside from its undergraduate and graduate studies offerings, the PMMA, through its Training Center, offers various courses such as Basic Training, Basic Training Updating, Basic Training Refresher Updating, and Advanced Training in Fire Fighting.
Advanced Training in Fire Fighting Refresher, Ratings Forming Part of Navigational Watch, Ratings Forming Part of Engineering Watch, Proficiency of Handling a Free-Fall Lifeboat, IMO Model Course 6.09 and IMO Model Course 6.10 are also among the courses being offered by the PMMA.