Filipino seafarers urged to fill global gap

ZAMBALES, Philippines - The country should take advantage of a looming shortage in international seafarers by producing more competent seamen, Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza said on Friday.

Mr. Mendoza, the speaker at the 185th graduation rites of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), asked graduates to "continue the country’s tradition of dedication and excellence in maritime service."

"I am asking you all to maintain our nation’s distinction as the seafaring capital of the world," he told the 196 graduates, along with 17 recipients of a master’s degree in shipping business management and maritime education.

Mr. Mendoza said Filipino seamen remain the top choice of foreign shipping firms.

The PMMA, the country’s oldest maritime academy, is mandated to produce more naval officers and international maritime personnel.

Originally named Escuela Nautica de Manila, the PMMA was created by a royal decree issued on Jan. 1, 1820 upon the recommendation of the Spanish Consulate of Commerce.

PMMA President Rear Admiral Fidel Diñoso said the Philippines should turn the global maritime crisis into an opportunity to produce more competent Filipino seafarers.

"Our country, being the world’s top supplier of seafarers, should produce more highly competent Filipino seamen," he said in a speech.

"The number of Filipino maritime officers is decreasing, while the demand [for] international maritime [service] is on the rise," he added.

Mr. Diñoso added that Filipino seafarers have been a major contributor to the economy through their dollar remittances.

The PMMA is upgrading its standards in ship operation, maintenance, port servicing and trends in lifesaving and firefighting techniques.

"PMMA will keep our seafarers abreast with the capabilities of other countries," Mr. Diñoso said. He also encouraged PMMA teachers to improve their teaching skills.

The PMMA is one of the maritime educational institutions in Asia that offers modern training equipment. - BusinessWorld

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