Marino World 11th Ann Issue by Marino World

US$8 €12 ¥200

VOLUME XI NO. 5 ISSN 1908-0972

PHP120

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2016

MARINO WORLD

Nature. Life. Balance The serenity of nature and the vibrance of living come together in harmony at Southgrove Estates.

Brgy. Molino, Imus, Cavite Let your family live in an inspiring haven that is masterfully designed to have an abundance of natural open spaces and lush mango trees, fruitwoods and flowering trees. Southgrove Estates is an exclusive address located at the heart of Southgrove, a 57-hectare integrated mixed-use development, that serves the neighboring Avida communities in Cavite. Work and leisure, indoor and outdoor amenities, privacy and freedom, nature and life.. all of your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essentials are not compromised so you can live inspired. Find that balance at Southgrove Estates.

(02) 848 5200 avidaland.com â&#x20AC;˘ avidalandph LTS No. 28827 Land development Completion: November 2014 | Housing Completion: December 2017 APPROVAL NO. AA-040615-0040

Cover Story

PH HOSTS INTERFERRY Transport FASTCAT IS A MILESTONE Government DOTr COMMITS TO A SUMMIT STCW CHIEF ELEAZAR DIAZ Shipping CREWCONNECT GLOBAL CONFERENCE Manning MV BIANCO ZEALAND ARREST

8 12 24 32 34 42

Content

ABOUT THE COVER Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

Legend has it when Napoleon was losing a battle, he ordered to beat a retreat. The drummer replied, “Sire, I don’t know how.” Bonaparte smirks, “Then, beat what you know.” On that grit, the battle was won. Ferry

investors are doing a replay, giving the best and the most in spite of maritime doldrums. Panic upsets the weak; the brave of heart takes the day.

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher

Editorial Consultant

Lyn Bacani

Creative Director

B. Cortes Lagac

Content Critique

Commo. Dante La Jimenez

Eva Tan

Jhon Henson Ong

Legal Counsel

Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.

News and Feature Writers Coca H. Strobar

Ligaya Caban

Contributors

Ms. Merle San Pedro RAdm. Adonis Donato Atty. Cristina Beltran

International Contributors

F R Chowdhury

Mark Millar

Richard Teo

Special Projects Manager

Visayas Correspondent

Photographer

Circulation Assistant

Gel Miranda

Joamirica Tud

Boy Ilano

Joana Marie Tud

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines marinoworldpublication@gmail.com

Tel. / Fax

(632) 521-3633

Mobile

(63) 906-491-2777

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

Publisher Note

PATRIOTISM IN MARITIME President Rodrigo R. Duterte is out of the usual mold --- bold, often irreverent. Yet, the only one who takes pride on his patriotism, kissing the Flag with pride and sparkle. And declares with childhood faith: “I am here because I love my country and the people of the Philippines.” In an era of weak belief on government and functionaries, his believers transform public service from opportunities of personal gain to a commitment of genuine participation in communal upgrade and reforms. This paradigm shift we clearly see in the new leadership of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), to volunteers from the alumni of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) and other maritime portals. They have hacked a rewarding profession; now comes paybacktime by volunteering time, talent, even opportunity losses in financial remuneration. No matter, the experience

and expertise they contribute is of world standard. And sorely needed, if we are to remain competitive in the world merchant maritime market.

seafarers guiding ratings wet on the ears; executives involving pro bono on policy and protocols of local and international applications.

These volunteer services are quite unaffordable by government salary rates. Thus, international Convention mandatories are often compromised without qualified assessors and auditors to review local credentials. Now we have a corps of volunteers even in operational aspects of maritime services --unassailable knowledge, solid integrity against corruption endemic in the body politic, in agencies of government.

The President is unforgiving on his main battle against illegal drug addiction and trade. And never coy on his sensibilities on Philippine sovereignty. Comes March, 2017, EMSA auditors should return with much circumspection given a President so sensitive to Philippine independence, particularly against U.S. flamboyance and European Union stiff upper lip.

We now look with proud, steady eyes on the 2016 World Maritime Day theme, “Shipping: indispensable to the world.” So are Filipino seafarers, our ambassadors onboard and ashore, in all the oceans and ports of the globe. Not just on our preeminent majority on the crew. More importantly, on the quiet revolution we are undergoing within our maritime community: weathered

As in the cliché, change is coming. It is in the Philippines, inspired by volunteerism fueled by payback gratitude --- indeed, each stakeholder has a role to play and present. And if the synergy holds, the Philippines shall truly be a destination where the world is competing to stake a beachhead in Asia for market, resources and leisure.

MARINO WORLD

Cover Story

41st ANNUAL CONFERENCE

PH HOSTS INTERFERRY by Coca H. Strobar

After 17 years since 1999, the Philippines hosts again the Interferry Annual Conference, its 41st. This is on October 15 to 19 at the Hotel Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Pasay City, Metro Manila. A Filipino, Christopher Pastrana, heads Interferry, the association of more than 200 member organizations (representing about 600 individuals) from 35 countries.

Membership includes all types of ferry operations: RoPax, RoRo, Cruise, Fast, Passenger-only, big and small ferries. It also accepts suppliers like shipbuilders and designers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers, naval architects and marine engineers, ship brokers and consultants, classification societies, publishers as well as specialists in information technology, finance, insurance, crewing, training, the likes.

Lined up topics of discussions for about 200 participants are best practices, public/private ferry partnerships, sail safe programs, vessel construction, new technology, regulatory issues, and business expansion.

Primary roles are to facilitate networking and communications within the ferry industry and to represent the industry on regulatory and policy matters.

Interferry.

•

Safety of passengers, crew, cargo and ships; adherence to safety regulations;

•

Free, fair and open competition;

•

Fair and equitable shipping regulations, consistently applied; and

Formed in the USA in 1976 as the International Marine Transit Association, the name was changed to Interferry and has become a highly respected shipping association representing the ferry industry worldwide.

MARINO WORLD

Interferry supports these principles:

•

Protection of the natural environment; adherence to environmental regulations.

The conference. One of Interferry’s primary functions has been to facilitate networking and cooperation within the ferry industry. This has been achieved mainly by annual conferences held in venues around the world for the past 40 years. On average approximately 75% of the delegates are members but the event is also open to non-members as a way to encourage growth in the association. Interferry’s Annual Conference has an unrivaled track record of attracting ferry industry’s key decisionmakers. This year include speaker presentations, roundtable discussions with Q & As followed by the General Assembly to formalize stands on issues and concerns. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Director for Maritime Safety Division Ashok Mahapatra leads the opening ceremonies.

Asian content.

Investments must be encouraged. There are already placements in the region; intra-regional investments must be cultivated, like South Korea investing in the Philippines.

Interferry President Christopher Pastrana pushes specific topic for the Asian region. He observes on domestic ferry safety, rules and regulations in Europe on ferry operators may not be applicable in the Asean region like on technology using renewable energy, critical strictness on emission, paints and sounds unfriendly to the eco-systems, the likes.

Challenge.

Asean operators may have more vessels but other regions have bigger vessels of heavier tonnage. We can encourage an Interferry Asia set up to represent an Asean perspective.

Foremost development challenge for archipelagic Southeast Asia is improved connectivity

Interferry sits in IMO technical advisory through its office in Belgium. Other countries are represented, like the MARINA and Coast Guard (PCG) for the Philippines. But these are regulators, not actual operators. They may be biased on the ideal without balancing what maybe practical or doable. Matured economies (Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong) may lead in the formation of policies applicable in the region to avoid blind adaption of policies and rules from other regions. The Asean Integration could jumpstart our position as a region and set-up our own standard we understand and can comply with. If we unite, Pastrana thinks, we come up with the strong presence of ferry operators in the region for a voice to address issues common to our region. More hands. In the Philippines, only APFC is currently active. Gothong and Aboitiz used to participate until they both sold out interest in shipping. In 1999, we hosted an Interferry conference as we are poised for better things. Shipowners were curious, they visited the country giving us the chance to showcase our viability.

In 2010, the Asian Development Bank released Bridges Across Oceans: Initial Impact Assessment of the Philippines Nautical Highway for system and lessons for Southeast Asia.

Interferry Pres Chet Pastrana There is need for more members to exploit the great potentials of the country. Major shipbuilders are now in operations here like Tsuneishi, Hanjin, Keppel. We must highlight this capability and compete against Europe for newbuilds, even as the market for new ships is weak. Impact. Pastrana sees the conference as an opportunity to show the Philippines as responsible, complying international standards of safety and allied issues. This should reverse the stigma we are highly accident-prone in our maritime operations. The government must raise the standard of safety enabling the Philippines to market as a destination, for them to experience the warmth of our people, our hospitality. Even as a small player, Pastrana also believes a common effort can bring here different players from different countries. We just must organize, collaborate, and come up with one strong voice (that includes labor and other stakeholders). Pastrana is passionate we must formulate rules applicable to our region, not just adopting those from other regions regardless peculiarities in our operations.

among the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24,000 islands. The success of the Strong Republic Nautical Highway in the Philippines, which uses an integrated system of roll-on/roll-off vessels to move people and cargo effectively, has proven to be a source of hope for the millions of poor in the region. Began in 2003, the roll-on/roll-off system has resulted in reduced transport costs and increased frequency of deliveries. As a result, businesses models have changed, farmers have gained market access, local government revenues have increased, and tourism has expanded. Social events. There are a lot of shipping conferences but few with the friendly atmosphere of the Interferry confab. This is reflected by the number of spouses who attend for the social events to meet friends from around the globe. October 16th, Welcome Reception. At the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, the conference venue; poolside with the

MARINO WORLD

PH HOSTS INTERFERRY

amazing sea view and gentle breeze. Wine, beer, fruit juices, sodas and a full assortment of appetizers will be served. This kick-off night is a great opportunity to build relations and renew friendships with delegates and guests from around the world.

October 19th, Batangas or Manila Bay (dependent on weather). Participants in the 41st Interferry Conference, board together a FastCat of Archipelago Philippine Ferries for a technical tour and leisure trip with your colleagues, sharing lunch onboard.

October 17th, Reception at the Manila Hotel. To learn a little more on Philippine culture, delegates will experience everything Filipino from the transportation, to food, to the entertainment.

Sidelights.

October 18th, Farewell dinner in the Big White Tent of the Sofitel. A night of Philippine performing arts, traditional, contemporary and modern. Wow and memorable, a contrast of the loud, the gentle and the mysterious. A homegrown band plays music that transcends all ages and global traditions.

MARINO WORLD

PreTour 1 (October 15th). Come a day earlier for a walking tour of the historical Walled City of Intramuros. Learn about Manilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, culture and Philippine architecture. Carlos Celdran will change the way you look at Manila, with humor, drama, candy, and carriage rides. Learn ALL about Manila literally one step at a time. Lunch follows at Ilustrado known for its Filipino and Spanish cuisine. PreTour 2 (October 16th)

Gawad Kalinga (to give care) is a Philippine-based movement that aims to end poverty by first restoring the dignity of the poor. The mission is for five million families by 2024; using a holistic approach to empowerment with valuesformation and leadership development at its core. Come meet Changemakers, learn how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re making the world a better place. Into the countryside is The Enchanted Farm, a unique Gawad Kalinga community of slum dwellers who now live in dignified homes. The farm brings together entrepreneurs who are building high-quality businesses to provide jobs and opportunities. For those with fore!-sight, the Carus Cup on October 16th will be on its 5th year, the traditional Interferry pre-conference golf tournament.

Transport

FOR OUR ARCHIPELAGO

FASTCAT IS A MILESTONE

Whence the Philippines is once red-tagged as highest in maritime incidents, Archipelago Philippine Ferries (APFC) is a game changer --- its modernization program lifting the country to an international standard of safety, convenience and amenities in the ferry transportation. APFC takes bold steps; pours in heavy investment in acquiring state-of-the-art international-classed, mid-speed RORO passenger catamaran vessels --- sparkling new --- for safe, fast, affordable and convenient sea travel.

FastCats can cruise with 275 passengers (with amenities for the elderly or disabled), carry seven trucks or buses and 34 cars.

FastCat is the icon for all APFC ferry vessels, designed by Sea Transport Solutions of Australia, a world leader in the industry. These vessels navigate in Philippine weather and sea conditions with these features: •

Three meters clearance between water and hull, three times higher than other RoRo vessels. Even if a one-meter wave hits the vessel, water will not get into the car deck nor the hull avoiding any accident.

•

Batangas (Calabarzon) – Calapan (Mindoro)

•

Bulalacao (Mindoro) - Caticlan (Aklan)

•

Matnog (Sorsogon) - San Isidro (Northern Samar)

•

Bacolod (Negros Occidental) – Iloilo (Panay)

•

Liloan (Southern Leyte) – Lipata (Surigao)

•

San Carlos (Negros Occidental) – Toledo (Cebu)

World-class.

•

Dumaguete (Negros Oriental) – Dapitan (Zamboanga del Norte)

FastCats take seriously regulations and safety standards, granted credentials from:

MARINO WORLD

•

Intl Maritime Organization (IMO) certifying, among others, nitrogen oxide and carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption levels are low.

•

Intl Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) ensuring the crew is equipped with internationally recognized trainings that promote the safety of life, property and marine environment.

•

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) which oversees the design, construction and operation maintenance of facilities.

Safety Features.

Since 2013, APFC has ten FastCats operating in pairs:

Chairman Christopher “Chet” Pastrana says they expect complete delivery of 30 vessels in 2020. To operate in 30 ports, with routes to Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

that promote safety of life, property and environment.

•

Its Catamaran-type hull is designed for open waters, compartmentalized so the entire hull won’t be flooded.

•

Navigates with a Global Positioning System (GPS), has four internationallyclassed ABS-certified Yanmar engines for complete safety.

•

Powered to take 16.5 knots, or 29 km per hour. Average for RoRos is only 9 knots.

•

Intl Association of Classification Societies (IACS Class) on compliance with technical and engineering standards for design and maintenance of ships

Seamless. The islands of Mindoro, Boracay and Palawan are on the FastCat RoRo service, patched by APFC sister bus liners (Jam and Philtranco) for a seamless travel experience. Jam Liner connects passengers from ManilaLaguna-Batangas-Quezon; Philtranco picks those from Manila, Pampanga, Bicol and parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. No frenzied lines, nor elbowing for connecting routes. Relax and enjoy the view. APFC is a synchronized sea-land operations, common ownership, ticketing system and loading and offload terminals. From point of entry to destination port, a seamless system. One will truly appreciate the system when travelling with minors to monitor, with

luggage to watch for; or entrepreneurs with goods, farmers with produce, forwarders with merchandise, logistics companies with deadlines. They all appreciate the FastCats and bus tandems. Small wonder travellers now ask whether bus operators will take the FastCat RoRo. This is very sensible. For the same price, one gets the safety, convenience and speed of new FastCats. Nation building. An archipelago of 7,107 islands, the Philippines relies heavily on sea transportation both for passenger travel and delivery of commodities. FastCat supports the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SRNH), an integrated set of roads and ports that connects the three primary regions of the country: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Then President Arroyo completed the SRNH, operational since April 12, 2003, on three routes, West, East and Central. While the Aquino Administration did not improved on it, the Duterte government is expected to enhance the facility as key to a more brisk internal trade. The nautical highways opens Mindanao, Duterte’s turf, to the rest of the country and the world. They enhance investment opportunities for agro-industry, commerce, trade and tourism, and also provide efficient and convenient travel for local and international tourists and investors through shorter travel time, convenient and cheaper transportation. Investment. APFC embarked on an ambitious re-fleeting program in 2010. Its modernization is backed by banks, with delivery of newbuilds starting in 2013. The impact goes deep even in the merchant marine profession. While fares are kept on present rates, passengers get to ride on brandnew vessels with courteous and efficient staff. For APFC pays more (i.e. P40-45k/ month while others give only P25k) to inspire maximum service. Salary is almost doubled, plus longer rest with the two-shift deployment. For APFC, profit comes later. The advocacy for now is to raise the standards: create the safety culture, give people the best they deserve --- the country must morph as an

APFC EVP Mary Ann Pastrana

example of what is better rather than the usual “pwede na yan (well, it may do). Returns. Chairman Pastrana is willing to wait, say a return-on-investment (RoI) within 7 to 8 years. Given the current trends on volume and other indicators, a good RoI in seven years, or shorter, is highly doable. He is optimistic on the RoI because he sees awareness (read, appreciation) from people for the improvement and efficiency introduced. There are even public executives, like Mayors, lobbying for APFC to extend operations in their areas. Based on their study, Pastrana estimates they will need about 30 more ships to complete the connectivity of east, west, central (and the laterals) and the ASEAN integration. APFC’s nine vessels are already fully-deployed on the first half of the year while the 10th is on a mandatory dry dock. There are profitable as there are weak routes. But on consolidation, the bottom figure is quite acceptable. Pastrana adds this is over the flexibility they give to clients. Whether from Dumaguete (Visayas) or in Dipolog (Mindanao), clients have clearer expectations on what time, how long, and how soon they will get to their destination on a seamless journey.

His Masters in Entrepreneurship from the Asian Institute of Management and UP-Los Banos major in Agricutural Business serve him well in packaging proposals with the banks. He insists on brand-new holdings, backed with executives with credentials and credibility. More importantly, he is fueled by vision for the Philippines, a maritime nation that must march proud on the world stage. Profits, why not. But the overarching objective for Chairman Pastrana is country. People and country, to complete the body with a soul. Nitpicking. On this venture, private initiative is proven. Putting money where the mouth is, so to speak. The risk is major in a capital-starved economy. The Government must come in, come in strong in meaningful action rather the usual praise releases and choking regulatory wrenches. The only Incentive of APFC is on BoI, plus it availed of 9337 for VAT-free importation, duty free importation of internationally classed vessels. The APFC Chairman observes, “If you look at other countries, in Japan, after a vessel is built and ready for registration, in 7 days they can operate.” MARINO WORLD

FASTCAT IS A MILESTONE

He hangs with genuine faith on the early pronouncements of President Duterte. That there should be a One-Stop-Shop for all the requirements of OFWs, whether required by DOLE or POEA, MARINA. OFWs should not suffer red tape and asked to keep coming back for documents they need from these offices.

The APFC experience is worth recalling to emphasize the no-brainer of it all. The ship was procured on borrowed money, interest mounting daily whether it earns or not. When it arrived, it was blessed by the Bishop of Mindoro, the Governor, Congressman and senior government officials in attendance and in awed of the brand-new ship.

Pastrana recalls the hardship and delays in importing a ship. One must deal with four agencies, at least: Dept of Finance, BoC, BID, then MARINA --- each with its own interpretations of the same rules and regulations!

Yet, the new ship struggles against the bureaucracy. And almost in mockery, creaky ships pass by, in regular operations. Passengers are on risky mono-bloc chairs, rusty vessel moving as a turtle, smogging the environment. Indeed, tragedy just waiting to happen.

Meantime, the vessels sits useless for four months in Batangas. Meantime, the investment is frozen while incurring maintenance expenses; meantime, people are deprived of a better means of transportation. All because government agencies do not understand each other. Reform. Government should put its act together. Now. The boat is there, allow it to immediately

Again, moored useless is a state-of-the-art ship, brand-new, with certified crew. Not allowed to operate because government t agencies are confused; in the dark on what regulations to use. Yet, refuse to consult with each to resolve the impasse. Or any diminution of powers and prestige. Perks, too? Even elected Mayors have expressed disappointment during their visits at APFC

is a way of life already. Chairman Pastrana recalls a friend doing business with OFWs in various countries. The friend has kiosks in various areas where one gets the print-out (or hardcopy) of permits and documents needed or ordered. Push a button, voila! It’s there. Airlines do the ticketing on-line, don’t even print tickets anymore. Smart reason 100, even 400 pax are served without the lines. But not Government here. One must be prepared to queue and return. Again and again. Our way of attracting investments? Draft choices. It seems Arthur Tugade is promising as Secretary of Transportation and Communications (DoTC). Mr. Pastrana believes Tugade is “very competent and capable to work for DOTC. I’m sure he will follow the advocacy of the President to make business easier, make it friendlier for private sector to create more jobs.” He speaks well of then MARINA Administrator Max Mejia whom he thinks “have done a good job in the last four years.” Mejia was also impressive at the InterFerry international confab at Copenhagen, Pastrana adds. Sustainability. APFC looks at the whole picture of the business. It is also concerned on the crew and the profession. It supports homegrown mentorship; learning domestically instead of being menials on foreign ships. Not to go abroad as ratings but as officers. This thinking has a strong basis as BIMCO and IMO both warn of impending shortage of merchant ship officers.

Passenger convenience operate unless it is in clear violation of something. Do not victimize it with the turf wars of the agencies. It is not fair, invites corruption. The ship is acquired with borrowed funds. It must operate at once to pay the banks. The agencies must sort-out their differences, the commonality of their Do’s and Dont’s. Let go the neck of the entrepreneurs Government is supposed to serve. Two aspects of the delays must be clearly realized: 1) Risking the financial viability of the stakeholders. 2) Depriving passengers of a better mode of travel.

MARINO WORLD

offices. They are in concert against mandatory red tape, the debilitating merry-go-round. In fact, APFC notes each ship it imports is required certain things --- certainty dependent on who handles the paper, not on any embedded process or regulation. In contrast, land-locked Panama finishes your Ship Registry in 24 hours. It may be derided as a Flag of Convenience (FoC) but remains one of the largest ship registry in the world. One cannot argue with success. It is really a riddle why we have a Jurassic attitude with digital protocols/apps are on our face. Computers is no longer a tool, it

The company has qualified cadets on shipboard training who signed a three-year employment contract within which training costs will be deducted from salaries. A smart study-now, pay-later plan, education to employment opportunity. APFC has its own training center for homegrown seafarers and staff as assure a steady supply of manpower, qualified for both domestic and international employment. Seafarers on vacation are urged a stint at FastCat to share their knowledge and experience. After all, FastCat is on international standards, too. The ships are of international quality; it’s in the service that young seafarers can learn from older bluewaters crew. It is almost a cooperative concept: let mature officers influence the mindset of domestic

TRANSPORT

Safety of life ferry people to world class standard. These young people may now think globally and prepare for overseas deployment. The concept goes full circle in that when these young seafarers return, it is now their turn to teach, to advocate for a higher level of performance as FastCat has done in the local industry. Training. APFC EVP Mary Ann Pastrana assures the vessels are managed by a skilled navigation team and an expertly trained vessel and service crew. Training is internationally recognized because the ship is internationallyclassed. Archipelago Phil Seafarers Training Institute (APSTI) partners with schools which sends cadets to APSTI for the SBT, ship familiarization, sea trips. Cadets train in brand-new vessels, state-of-the-art equipment. A curriculum is created for them, not just board and go. Teachers are master mariners, hotel and restaurant technical and vocational experts. APFC and APSTI facilities are ready and available as hotel, training center and laboratory, all resources pooled for the benefit of the larger community.

Bulalacao and Matnog with other areas by 2017.

We will solve it and we will sustain it until we reach the quality service we want.

The Mayor of Bulalacao (Mindoro) is pitching for a Maritime High School. APFC finds it interesting given the environment is conducive to learning as it opens employment opportunities to the locals and environ.

APFC has started with the hardware, the brand-new ships. Add outstanding service for a world class industry. So much anticipated from continents and countries, more so if seen from InterFerry perspective.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not going to be just a maritime training center, but it also would be a budget hotel to take care of our passengers,â&#x20AC;? explains EVP Pastrana who is a certified nutritionist and holds a Nutrition degree from the University of the Phil.

With safer and faster ferry service, business and families earn more time. Hence, economies may grow healthier and relations could bond better. The challenge is sustaining the rally for improvement, not just for business but for country.

Port upgrade.

Common task.

Philharbor Ferries is an affiliate company that is focused on port changes. It is now planning for make-overs of our ports with budget hotels, business centers, brewed coffee and fresh croissants, amenities for the travellers.

APFC is passionate on its visioning for the nation. And it is a team player and accepts things shall take time. It takes a village to mold the culture; there must be a concert of efforts from all sectors. APFC shall connect the islands but everyone should pitch in for the paradigm shift.

Those with their own vehicles are encouraged to explore the communities, new places. The training is not just for jobs but also of building communities. Training Director Melvin Dalacat is hands on, certification after SBT acceptable in any ship, manning agency, MARINA. These exceptional trainings give confidence to trainees who may apply the new knowledge, even on terminal port operations. Mrs. Pastrana believes developing ports is also developing our islands. Workers developed from FastCats areas should take care of the ferries as these are links to sustain growth. Nonstop. Mrs. Pastrana vows: We will continue to identify, search for root cause of the problem.

Long haul or traditional containerized shipping stay, ferries can only carry so much. But the latter is the better option for fast-moving consumer goods and perishable produce, betting also on short connectivity. Making boats newer is only part of the solution; international safety rules and regulations must be adhered to as critical policy, not just for compliance. APFC is happy on its 90% phasing, currently addressing details of improvements. It takes as complement competitors copying its act. For the more embarking on similar protocols, the faster the country achieves the APFC mission: to connect the Philippine islands and neighbors with safe, fast and convenient ferry transport system on international standards.

The new APFC port captain is Capt. Alfonso Del Castillo, former president of TSM Phil (now its consultant). Del Castillo works full time imbued to make a difference in the domestic industry --- change the culture of the local to be at par with the international. He will develop quality seafarers, for the local fleet and build the capacity for SBT, win-win for the world. For now, training is only at the APFC Alabang offices. But the plan is for all areas there is a FastCat operations. Within the year, APFC hopes to install facilities in Batangas,

Safety of cargoes

MARINO WORLD

Feature

Natural promontory

GATEWAY TO THE SOUTH

BEAUTIFUL BULALACAO by Ligaya Caban

The Gem of Oriental Mindoro, nestled at the southern-most tip of the island, one of 14 municipalities. Beautiful from ridge to reef, 31,000 hectares; in terms of town water, Bulalacao is the biggest. Mayor Ernilo C. Villas holds that, “Our vision is to make Bulalacao the gateway to Southern Philippines. We could only do that because of that roro port and then because of FastCat. His optimism is based on travel frequencies: four times, 3am, 10am, 3pm, and 10pm (Roxas- open sea and far from Caticlan) Roro facility is a fasttracked project of the Mayor, “started asking for this project as early as only 1 month and 18 days, August 18, 2004, and I started my term July 1, 2004.” He believes Bulalacao is the ideal port, given that Mindoro is natural land bridge between Luzon and Central Visayas. But in Mindoro, Bulalacao is very

16 16

MARINO MARINO WORLD WORLD

strategically located, nearest to Panay.

The islands.

Even construction cargo and equipment for Cagayan de Oro City pass here. FastCat speeds up development, opening Bulalacao-Coron route, then straight to El Nido and the mainland. At El Nido or Taytay one may go by land to Puerto Princesa, Palawan; even soon to Kotak, Malaysia.

Bulalacao is a cluster of nine major islands, the longest coastline in Oriental Mindoro. Perfect for island hopping, serviced by rental motor boats plying Bulalacao Bay daily.

The roro port connects to Coron and mainland Palawan, the central Visayas (and Boracay) for a triangle of tourism. FastCat plans a route to Palawan where Bulalacao is strategic and the only town in Oriental Mindoro with 8 to 9 populated islands for future growth. The port is 300 meters and could berth roro vessels. It will be extended to 400 meters to accommodate foreign and local cruise ships.

Alibatan has pure, white sand hiding a half-hectare lake in the middle carved by nature. Sibalat and its surrounding water invite fishing and scuba diving; Aslom with its coconut cover is a great shelter for ships to anchor during storms. Maasin is carved like a cave, coconuts surviving the cogon-land grass for a feel of wild. Tambaron breeds wild pigs and monkeys for the hunt; its deep waters (30 fathoms) is habitat for a variety of sports fish. Sandwiched at ends with coconut and

mangrove, Suguicay abound with corals and shells. Buyayao contrasts with 206 hectares of forest and caves, hosting over 500 species under thick vegetation and ornamental plants. Pocanil appears unforgiving, rocky and suited for goats as a reserved area. Liwagao Island has classes of quality pebbles, fantastic coral formations, a diverse marine ecosystem. But Caluya, Antique is claiming jurisdiction. The Mayor has liaisons with two Chinese interests considering major investment in the area for hotels, airport and tourism infrastructure, amenities. The seven indigenous tribes are about 35,000 with Hanunuo Mangyan a majority at 20% (7,000) and the most elite having produced lawyers, priests, religious sisters and teachers. Even welders graduated from Techno and are already working abroad. Double taskings. FastCat plans a 68-room hotel and if unfeasible, converts to a maritime school. The Mary the Queen crewship is marooned there and a little retrofit could make it a hotel and a school. Mayor Villas is an advocate of education, showing twelve high schools now from three when he took office. He plans to establish another four to complement growth of elementary schools from 21 to 36 now. The Bulalacao Technical Vocational College (fondly called Techno) specializes in welding. Out of 1,000 indigenous and indigent graduates, about 200 found jobs abroad with the rest working in factories at the Calabarzon and Metro Manila areas.

Eco-friendly. Seaweed farming is promising here given the world demand for carrageenan as processed successfully in Cebu by the pioneer, Shemberg. The Mayor seems focused on processing: seaweeds, meat, feed-meal from hybrid corn. Its long dry season could host a solar farm just as studies are being conducted for a wind farm (starting 2008 and encouraging at 6 to 8 meters average wind velocity).

blabber and vision may simmer and escalate before cooling off to realities, to pragmatics. Mayor Villas believes an economic zone is ticket to progress, as it is with Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, Subic and Clark, Cebu, Davao. Energy at 3 to P4 per k/h could open the gates of progress. A certain Li Peng, who claims to represent a Chinese billionaire, is talking of an economic zone as they did in Vietnam.

Business mogul Manny Pangilinan, during the inauguration of FastCat here, was thinking aloud between San Jose and Bulalacao for exploitation of natural gas. Also, Pangilinan may build a power plant for the energy demands of seaweeds processing 150 tons (Panagatan, Caluya, Antique) and 350 tons more (Concepcion, Palawan) monthly, jointly the biggest in the country, But these are processed in Carmona, Cavite and Mandaue, Cebu, instead of Mindoro, a neighbor.

Mayor Ernilo Villas

The future is bullish on energy for Bulalacao: hydro, solar, wind and natural gas. And coal. Semirara (Caluya, Antique) was part of Bulalacao but transferred to Antique by Congress in 1950. It is now supplying 95% of national coal requirement; but experts point Semirara deposit is only a vein of the Bulalacao reserve! This economic factor is en-messed with the social issues of mining: church against politicians, capitalists against consumers, activists against apathetic. Be it provincial, national or federal,

Leadership. Beating a political dynasty seems easier for Mayor Villas than the demands of public service, of being visionary over unbelievers. The votes are there: 11,000 out of 15,000, 3,500 combined to opponents. His wife took a single term and he now continues to manage with a fresh mandate, with passion and determination annealed during high school at the seminary. Bulalacao, indeed, is a meteor on the rise. Wherefore, only an aged banyan MARINO MARINO WORLD WORLD

17 17

BEAUTIFUL BULALACAO

Upgraded Bulalacao Port

tree covered with fireflies serves as its icon. Now, the new and beautiful Bulalacao Port, Oriental Mindoro --connected two hours to Boracay, five hours to Coron, Palawan, by fastcraft, soon to operate.

MARINO MARINO WORLD WORLD

Sheltered by aged trees

The town of Bulalacao, shepherd by Mayor Ernilo C. Villas, is now a â&#x20AC;&#x153;must visitâ&#x20AC;? eco-tourism destination, model of convergence between Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Tourism.

But Marino World looks deeper at the psyche of the former kapitan of Barangay Poblacion. He is not fueled by fame nor fortune. But simply, to serve faithfully for the inclusive growth --mind, body and socials --- of the people who trust his words.

Training

NEWSIM GOES OFFSHORE The New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NEWSIM) Training Academy launches its offshore facilities September 17th inside its 17-hectare property in Barangay Bignay 2, Monte Vista Beach Resort, Sariaya, Quezon. Named Alcor A – Alcor, called 80 Ursae Majoris – is a fourth magnitude white class hydrogen binary star, consisting of Alcor A and Alcor B (a red dwarf star) makes a visual double with the brighter star MIZAR in the middle of the handle of the Big Dipper (Ursa Major), Alcor is known as the lifespan star or “jimyouboshi” as it was believed that one who could not see it would pass away by years’ end. Mizar and Alcor is sometimes called the “horse and the rider” and the ability to resolve the two stars with the naked eye is often quoted as a test of eyesight, although even people with quite poor eyesight can see the two stars. Arabic literature says that only those with the sharpest eyesight can see Alcor – A. All set. NEWSIM Chief Executive Officer Capt. Ramil J. Limocon confirms trainees are already scheduled on September 20th. About US$1-million was invested on five of the vast 17-hectare area. NEWSIM was established in 2000 and in 2012 launched “NEWSIM ARK,” for its basic

MARINO WORLD

safety and other safety training courses in Sariaya, Quezon. STCW Safety Courses are conducted in Makati City and delivered with unparalleled quality and passion. Design. The mocked oil rig is made of second-hand containers with original ships’ porthole windows. Alcor is an original designed mocked-up rig lighted at night and reflects water which gives the impression one is at sea. It was nerve-wracking at the start for Capt. Limocon being new to the oil and gas industry. Two years ago, he was COO for the entire NEWSIM operations, until they decided to venture to offshore. He did all the designs, including equipment like the simulator. His background as a civil engineering student helped a lot in construction and design. Capt. Limocon has vast experience in chemical tankers and general cargo vessels and was a technical superintendent with a German company for five years. He made a pledge to himself that at the age of 35 he will stop sailing, whether his family agrees or not, with savings or none. He survived, even

achieved more in his alternative choice. Qualified. NEWSIM was accredited by Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization (OPITO), U.K. based independent international body with mission to support the industry to build a sustainable, competent and safe oil and gas workforce and to ensure that quality, innovation and partnership underpin everything that they do. OPITO inspector from its Regional Office in Malaysia inspected Alcor for four days: July 28, 29, 30 and 31. NEWSIM is new in the oil and gas industry --- but we made it at first try, one shot! Accreditation of the 9 courses is tough, rigid. Time-checked, even departure from the Makati office, the conduct of the training. Precise, starts at 8am, trainees food monitored, and time-sensitive even for snacks, inspections, examinations and demonstrations. But NEWSIM takes pride again on qualifying at first attempt on these courses: BOSIET, BRIDGE, EBS, ECT, FOET, HUET, TBOSIET, TFOET and THUET. Challenge. The industry is on doldrums given the low price of oil. Employment may have shrunk

but offshore training continuous to be mandatory, renewable every three years. Whether one works in a platform or not, training must be current as required. There are Filipinos in the industry but no one, not even MARINA, has definite figures. There are about seven training centers offering offshore courses. NEWSIM staff and personnel manning these are regular employees in the MARINA courses. To maximize investment and faculty, they are selected and rotated for the most qualified on the more than 30 courses. Soon to open are facilities for Dynamic Positioning, part of the offshore training, more on simulators. Again, NEWSIM comes as “The Preferred Training and Assessment Center.” It is confident on its edge over the others: one of the first in Simulator Training in the Philippines, the first on MLC courses, the first and original SSBT with BRM. And on the resort ambiance of NEWSIM, one’s training becomes an instant vacation!

CEO Limocon and his Alcor Not surprising NEWSIM received various awards viz: •

2015 People’s Choice Excellence, Best Maritime Training Center

•

2014 Global Excellence, No. 1 Maritime and Simulator Training Center in the Philippines

•

34th Annual Consumers Choice, No. 1 Training Center for 2014

•

2013 Business Achievement and Recognition Awards, Best Maritime Training Center

•

2013 United Filipino Seafarers Awards, Outstanding Maritime Training Center

•

2005 Philippine Quality Awards for Business Excellence, Most Outstanding Maritime Training Center

NEWSIM is a Filipino-owned corporation providing modern facilities for advanced maritime upgrading of skills and assessment of competence for seafarers. It has trained thousands of mariners enabling NEWSIM to offer courses required, to process licenses, and COC’s, and develop programs to enhance skills. Its training programs are designed to meet and exceed IMO standards and are STCW Compliant.

NEWSIM UNVEILS PRACTICAL SITE IN CEBU 2, Barangay Biasong, Talisay City, Cebu. The new site in Cebu is the nearest so far to offer complete safety and tanker courses. NEWSIM Cebu was inaugurated 26 November 2011 at the 6th Floor of Escario Building, Barangay Capitol Site, Cebu City. Now, seafarers from the Visayas and Mindanao have the best option where to take their training requirements. The New Simulator Center of the Philippines (best known as NEWSIM) has unveiled September 26th a Practical Site at Zone

“Seafarers must have reacted favorably because this is already the third expansion of NEWSIM Cebu,” beams Lloyd A. Bantiling, Cebu Branch Full and project Manager Chiefsupport Operating Officer for

the Visayas and Mindanao. “The realization of this site was caused by our desire of providing our beloved seafarers the best option in taking their training requirements in a nearer and short-distanced location,” Bantiling stress. Travel from Cebu City to the site takes only 15 to 25 minutes drive. “The Cebu site is just the first Practical Site launched by NEWSIM. The company is programmed to open sites soon in Guimbal, Iloilo City and in all of our Visayas and Mindanao branches,” says Capt. Ramil J. Limocon, Chief Executive Officer.

MARINO WORLD

Peter Broadhurst, Senior VP-Safety and Security - Inmarsat; Benjamin Strong, Director of Amver Maritime Relations; Takis A. Markatos, Operations Manager of Lyras Maritime, Marlon R. Roño, Executive Chairman of MMC; and Fiona Bruce, Lloyd’s List Global Awards 2016

Magsaysay Maritime Corporation (MMC) deployed officers and crew members of MV Lyric Sun which won the Amver Assisted Rescue at Sea Award at the Lloyd’s List. Global Awards held last September 28th at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Great Britain. The Inmarsat-sponsored award recognized the extraordinary courage and seamanship of the officers and crew to the plight of FV Jordan 5. Marlon R. Roño, Executive Chairman

MAGSAYSAY PART OF RESCUE AT SEA AWARD

of MMC, and Takis A. Markatos, Operations Manager of Lyras Maritime, accepted the award on behalf of the officers and crew. The citation reads, “In March this year, seven crew members were forced to abandon their fishing vessel when it caught fire. Despite rough seas and strong currents, the crew changed its course and thanks to the actions of this well-disciplined and heroically professional team, all seven were safely rescued in a six hour operation.” The noble act exemplified by the officers and crew members is a story of heroism and

solidarity of seafarers who, regardless of race, color or vessel size, choose to support each other in times of great need. Lyric Sun is a bulk carrier vessel operated by Orpheus Marine Transport Corporation (OMTC). MMC has been deploying Filipino officers and crew members for OMTC since 2011. The awards are managed by Lloyd’s List, the leading maritime commerce since 1734. Lloyd’s List provides information, analysis and knowledge for business decision makers.

VOLUNTEERS AGAINST CRIME AND CORRUPTION (VACC) SPECIAL AWARD FOR INDIVIDUAL COMMUNITY SERVICE

Ms. Lyn Bacani, Marino World and Maritima publisher, is among those cited by VACC, “…for boldly stepping beyond maritime publishing towards awakening public consciousness to the struggle for justice by victims including seafarers.” It was given 29th August at Heroes’ Hall, Malacanang Palace, on VACC’s 18th Founding Anniversary celebrations. Ms. Bacani received a similar award last year.

MARINO WORLD

Embark on a lifelong career. While While we we are are passionate passionate about about shipping, shipping, V.Ships is a people company. V.Ships is a people company. We We know know that that a a good good crew crew is is what what makes makes a a voyage successful. Because of this we are voyage successful. Because of this we are enthusiastic enthusiastic about about hiring hiring and and retaining retaining the the best crew and supporting their development best crew and supporting their development throughout throughout their their career. career.

www.vcrew.com/phl www.vcrew.com/phl

Contact Contact Us Us Main Main Office Office Bradco Bradco Avenue, Avenue, Aseana Aseana II, II, Aseana City, Paranaque Aseana City, Paranaque 1702 1702 Phone: 858-9900 / 401-9557 Phone: 858-9900 / 401-9557 Cebu Branch Cebu Branch 3rd Floor Crown Building, North 6 3rd Floor Crown Building, North 6 Road, Cebu Port Center Reclamation Road, Cebu Port Center Reclamation Area, Area, Mabolo Cebu City (behind Sun Gold Mabolo Cebu City (behind Sun Gold and in front of SM Cebu) and in front of SM Cebu) Phone: 032 238-2449 / 032 238-9713 Phone: 032 238-2449 / 032 238-9713

Performance assured Performance assured

Governance

DOTr COMMITS TO A SUMMIT by Danny Q. Junco

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will lead the “National Maritime Summit” proposed by the Movement for Maritime Philippines (MMP) for maritime stakeholders to participate in the development and advancement of the maritime industry. Transportation Secretary Arthur “Art” Tugade made the commitment before MMP officers and other stakeholders last September 30th at his office in Ortigas avenue, Barangay Wack-Wack, Mandaluyong City. Tugade shall present views on the status and welfare of the maritime industry, felt ignored for decades by the government. There is yet no definite venue, time and date for the summit as the process is still being fine-tuned by DOTr officials and MMP officers. MMP Chair Merle Jimenez San Pedro recalls issues presented to DOTr was an offshoot from the commitment of President Rodrigo R.Duterte to help the maritime industry. In turn, from views of the MMP who met Duterte while he mayor of Davao City and prior to the presidential campaign last May. San Pedro says Duterte is the only president willing to make the maritime industry booming as his administration will extend all-out support to the industry.

MARINO WORLD

The DOTr chief, who browsed over documents on maritime issues, suggested to the convenors to delete generalities and be specific, with timeframes. He recommends to include the fishery department under the Department of Agriculture of Secretary Manny Pinol.

maritime sector but to those who are unfortunate, especially during calamities and emergencies,” adds Pimentel.

“You have to ask the support of Pinol as to what area will be the marine sanctuary or area where fishing is prohibited and the protection of coral reefs because these also are important without all of these there will be no more fishes preserved for the next generation,” Tugade explains. “The mountains, environment and seas these also are to be protected and included in your watch for you to have a better maritime industry.”

“Sad to say that the business establishment like the banks won’t help to boost the maritime industry as it evades to extend loans to the ship builders or ship owners or any maritime investors,” San Pedro observes.

Tugade also asked the MMP executives if they are willing to take action on the street, voice out the maritime issues and programs to translate them into action; even volunteer services for free for the welfare of Filipinos living in this country.

This problem shall be tackled in the proposed Summit, with clustered groups of similar concerns to discuss in-depth among themselves acceptable solutions.

According to the MMP chair, the summit will address maritime issues on shipping, manning, training, and others in the spectrum for the growth of the economy.

Financing is needed to fuel the maritime industry but elusive to find. The banking sector is unexcited; MARINA’s purse is so puny compared to the demand.

MMP President Brenda Pimentel was quick to answer their group has been on volunteerism for almost a decade now. Ms. Pimentel writes an English column at a national broadsheet.

DOTr Maritime Undersecretary for Maritime Felipe Judan is an advocate of focused discussions rather than lofty ideas that end up bland with blank results. Judan has been in the maritime industry for 33 years and grizzled in its problems, including ship classification for cargo and passengers.

“(W)e have been doing this labor of love to help our people not only in the

He elaborates 50-years old ship still ply our waters when these should be junked

years back. But since there is no law to junk old ships, the risk continues daily. Judan further notes the 78% of the archipelago is water and “… the best solution to this is connectivity and that is why we have the Roro, amphibian buses cruising seas and lands, and infrastructures like farm-to-market roads which can be used to deliver farmers’ crops and other basic goods to the markets.” Judan also notes the crucial role of maritime in the logistics chain: only 25% of cargoes are moved by air but 75% are loaded on ships. The disparity is shown here and the world over. Other problems cited are lack of shipowners, shipbuilders, training, manning, and others that will be addressed in the Summit. September 30 is considered Day One of preliminaries towards a Maritime Summit. DOTr and MMP shall jointly craft a Summit agenda in the coming months to elicit a mutuallyacceptable document of discussions and implementation.

MMP convenors come from various maritime organizations like:

Capt. Gaudencio Morales, Integrated Seafarers (ISP)

Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, MMP Chair, Pres WIMAPHIL Pres, VP of PAMTCI

Atty Dexter Tupas, Archipelago Philippine Ferries (APFC)

Brenda Pimentel, Pres Phil-Maritime Research, Studies and Services (PMRSS)

Leo Santiago, Maritime Journalists Association (MJAP)

Arlene Romero and Myrna Calag, PMRSS

MMP submitted a 15-page National Maritime Agenda, crafted from a series of maritime stakeholders meetings. Sec. Tugade watched the MMP powerpoint on the background and essentials of the presentations.

Arlene Paderanga, Association of Maritime institutes (PAMI)

Full project support

MMP with DOTr Sec Tugade, U/Sec Judan

MARINO WORLD

Training

C/E Malapit with cadets

WSP Maritime Training Center

BEYOND JUST TRAINING State-of-the-art training facilities, costing major dollars, are pivotal for WSP Maritime Training Center Inc., (WSPMTC) in developing world-class merchant mariners. The investment may be a great business risk given the downturn of the maritime industry. But a commitment to offer the best over-arch any other considerations --WSPMTC must answer the need, must show the way. Among latest equipment collected at its 17th and 18th floors of the Prestige Towers in Emerald street, Ortigas Center, Pasig City:

WPSPMTC is committed to provide state of the art trainings with the use of Simulators and is continuously upgrading its services and facilities as required by their Clients and their Bureau Veritas (BV)ISO 9001: 2008 certification. Dedication.

•

Transas NTPro 5000 Full Mission Bridge Simulator (FMBS)

•

Transas Full Mission Engine Room Simulator (FMERS)

The Management of WSPMTC, headed by Engr Romulo Malapit as Head of Training, Capt. Alban Castellino, Consultant on In-House Trainings, and Capt Rolando Olete, Head of Training, Deck Department are knowledgeable, dedicated and confident to provide quality trainings for the seafarers of its various clientele.

•

Transas Full Mission Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator (FMLCHS)

Partnership.

•

ECDIS Type Specific Training TRANSAS Navi-SAILOR 4000

•

Safebridge JRC ECDIS701/7018/901/901M/2000

•

Safebridge SAM ECDIS Pilot Platinum

The State of the Art simulators are augmented by a Resource Center with library, laptop work stations loaded with learning software. A licensed Network Marine Training Services (MTS), a training/instructional videos are loaded on the twelve (12) computers which are available to seafarers to connect to a wide range of Computer

based Training and Instructional Videos.

MARINO WORLD

WSPMTC is continuously seeking partnerships with local Manning Agents and Maritime Schools for the use of their state-of-the-art facilities and to provide quality and affordable maritime training solutions to seafarers. On top, seafarers from member-companies of the International Maritime Employers Committee are given an additional 10% discount on the training fees. In a recent visit, Manager Adam Lewis (Training and Operations) briefed WSPMTC on IMEC’s plans for inductees on the IMEC-CadetshipProgram.

Future. The Management of WSPMTC, observes that most shipping companies will cut down on training expenses given the global crisis in maritime business. But warns this is the time that training should continue. When the rebound from crisis in maritime business comes, better qualified people are ready for the new tonnage of ships --- the upcycle by the tail-end of 2017, as predicted. Focus these days is to be compliant with the coming into force by January 1, 2017 of STCW 2010. Once that’s over, everybody will start for the next phase. But taking the backseat now is unfortunate. For 2017, WPSMTC is designing simulator courses for Liquid Cargo Handling simulator since today’s officers are less inclined for classroom training but prefer simulator/handson trainings to meet the industry requirements. Courses. WSPMTC offers MARINA STCW accredited courses: •

Radar Navigation Radar Plotting and Use of ARPA-IMO Model Course 1.07

•

Electronic Chart Display Information System (2012)

•

Consolidated MARPOL 73/78 Annexes I-VI

Transas Full Mission Engine Room Simulator

•

Medical First Aid – IMO Model Course 1.14

•

Ship Security Officer – IMO Model Course 3.19

•

• • •

Ship Security Awareness and Seafarers w/ Designated Security Duties Ship Simulator and Bridge Teamwork with BRM-IMO Model Course 1.22

ECDIS specific courses.

•

Developing a Safety Culture

•

ECDIS Type Specific Training TRANSAS Navi-SAILOR 4000

•

Voyage Planning Station

•

SAFEBRIDGE JRC ECDIS701/7018/901/901M/2000

•

SAFEBRIDGE SAM ECDIS PILOT PLATINUM

Specialized courses.

In-house courses. •

Automatic Identification System

•

Chart Corrections / Voyage Planning

•

Collision Regulations

•

Dangerous, Hazardous & Harmful Cargoes

•

International Safety Management Code

Rating Forming Part of Navigational Watch

•

ISM/ISPS/MLC

•

Master Pilot Info Exchange

Updating Course for Officers InCharge of a Navigational Watch

•

Ship Safety Officer Course ECDIS Mindset

•

Maritime Resource Management

Engine Room Simulator with ERM

• •

Hazard Management by Risk Assessment

•

Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse w/ HIV in the Maritime Sector

•

Safety Awareness Training Program

•

Oil Record Book

•

Steering Course

•

Shiphandling and Maneuvering Refresher Course

•

Ship Simulator and Bridge Teamwork with BTM

•

RT-FLEX Familiarization Training

•

Gas Detector Course

Pres. Manny David, Capt. Castellino tour Manager Lewis

In a practical sense, WSPMTC is almost a one-stop shop for professional development. It offers state-of-the-art equipment for hands-on familiarity, guided by industry experts and course specialists, and a company committed and qualified to mold clientele to world-class standard --- confident, competitive.

MARINO WORLD

Training

MAGSAYSAY,

ICS

PARTNERS At the MLRI and ICS Partnership launch: Alexander E. Querol, MLRI President; Julie Lithgow, ICS Director ; Capt. Alfredo Vidal, MARINA Deputy Administrator (Operations); Eduardo U. Manese, Chairman of A. Magsaysay, Inc.; and Marlon R. Roño, President of Magsaysay People Resources Corp. NSB Mag Issue 32.pdf

3/21/16

10:26 AM

Magsaysay Learning Resources (MLRI) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) officially launched their partnership on professional education, training and

Training That Makes A Difference!

qualifications last August 22 at Robert Hall, Ermita, Manila, Philippines. ICS is the only internationally recognized professional association in commercial maritime, representing shipbrokers, ship managers and agents all over the world. It was represented by Julie Lithgow, Director; Yiu-Kei Chan, Chairman of ICS Hong Kong; and Leif Ollivierre, Senior Lecturer. MLRI was represented by Alexander E. Querol, President; and Chief Engineer Romeo S. Piccio, Head of Operations. It is the maritime and technical skills training arm of Magsaysay People Resources, a pioneer in the Philippines on development of maritime officers and crew.

Capt. Alfredo V. Vidal, Deputy Administrator (Operations) of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), was the Guest of Honor. He presented MARINA’s agenda on the advancement of the maritime sector, adding “This partnership comes at an opportune time as the country aims to position itself as a global shipping hub.”

CMY

We change lives through our training at GigaMare. Our passion is to enhance the skills of young professionals by providing a kick-start to progress in their careers, and ultimately bringing success to companies employing them.

MARINO WORLD

A short course followed, “Commercial World Explained,” and given to attending ship owners, managers, directors, senior business and government executives.

MARINO WORLD

Governance

STCW CHIEF ELEAZAR DIAZ

PUBLIC SERVICE, INDEED. Last July, Merchant Marine Capt. Eleazar Diaz took over as OIC of MARINA STCW Office vice Capt. Herminio Estaniel, rendered immobile by a slipped disc. By August 1, he was Executive Director and sets the tone, “I’m a product of government and it’s payback time for me… I intend to do it very properly.” (For one, he finished schooling practically on government grants.) Hence, not surprising Diaz pulls out of retirement when recalled to serve, even if comfortably settled with his family in the US. They have to connect in digital apps, timesensitive as a.m. here it’s p.m. there. Volunteers. MARINA is in a good track now, fueled by qualified Pinoy volunteers even from abroad. They man the ramparts of audits and inspections of maritime schools, training centers and local ships. Great credentials at a pittance “fee,” mostly alumni of the state Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), the first in Asia. MARINA used to suffer from a critical lack of qualified professionals willing to work at government rate --- which totals to zip. Now a wave of patriotism (no less, indeed!) fills the void. Marine engineers, electricians are interviewed, assessed, oral and written, free-ofcharge. Of course, against howls of assessment centers losing a lucrative business. Not that government competes; the centers are quite strained with only three accredited to service some 8,000 applicant- seamen. It’s just time have changed with volunteerism. MARINA now has the staff it could not afford --- coming, inspired by a no-nonsense management. Qualified, too, like passers of 6.09 IMO model course 312 to do proper audits. And coming via FaceBook, everyday Capt. Diaz receives emails of intent from PMMAers and others. Under the MARINA Seafarer Volunteer Program (MSVP), STCW is just among the beneficiaries. Operations is now loaded for random inspections

MARINO WORLD

of Philippine flagged vessels, additional full time inspectors. The volunteer officers may need fine-tuning on local nuances but they bring in experience and expertise of higher international standard. Marino World. Agenda for your first 100 days in office? Any direct order from the President? Capt. Diaz: “House cleaning, bring back honor, prestige to the MARINA and the profession that I love so much… Really, to help as many seafarers as I possibly can…” He will review memo circulars and advisories to weed out the conflicting, the redundant at the expense of the seafarers. (Electro Tech) STCW Circular 2016-04 issued April and ends December this same year. Too short with only 3 centers to administer the exams (2 in Manila, 1 in Subic). Thus, tests are too time-limited, many fail. Then, they are out of jobs and would have to take the full ETO course, so expensive and prolonged while out of a job. On Day 1 (August 5st), STCW Advisory 11 of 2016 was issued for urgent advisory regarding certification of electricians ETO and ETR. STCW Manila 2010 amendments was in transition since 2012 to the end of 2016. Nothing was done earlier to comply. But the panic button is now on for the last five months, August to December 31, 2016. 8,000 electricians have yet no certification to serve onboard vessels beyond Dec 31, 2016. An advisory seeks or gives advises, not orders. Capt. Diaz advisory received flaks but no professional response. He has to pool a dozen STCW experts to find the fastest way to

certify the 8,000 within minimum requirement. STCW is simply worded but open to many interpretations. Of the 12 STCW experts, six declare the otherwise of the other six. Hence, Capt. Diaz, reviewing his own books, must come up with a decision. He will bite the bullet, hoping his views are best for the circumstance. On a frontal dialogue with PAMTCI, main association of maritime training centers, Capt. Diaz was practically accused of being despotic, doing a circular without public consultations. He simply returned the pie on their faces: what did you do from 2012 to July, 2016? Now that someone acts on the dirt swept under the rug, he is being blamed for not playing level field? And he retorts: “You are angry at the man, now I throwback the questions to you what have you done? If that man did not do anything do you realize that we will all be of no consequence anymore? Because you will be out of your business. MARINA will be out of its purpose without the seafarers…” He followed August 2nd with advisory on AB deck and AB engine, in short all ratings. They are again victims of the same procrastination --government and industry --- now, risking half-amillion Filipinos losing jobs. And other nationals shall replace us, our country not compliant with STCW requirements. Confronted with the facts and Diaz logic, the usually activist PAMTCI was unusually subdued.

Pandora box. Computers can do magic and, like fire, it can also destroy. If we become suspect of manipulating test and results, we could again be blacklisted by the world just like the 70’s. Unabated proliferation of training centers and maritime schools could be taken as clues. Greece is respected on seafaring since prehistorical times. Yet, she only has five maritime schools. We take education as we take opportunities in business. With hiring in nurses, our nursing schools zoomed to almost a thousand from a few --- without the corresponding hospitals to properly train. Even boxing stables, with the Pacquiao success. Capt. Diaz has a tight grasp on things, clearly knows his waters: “I will initiate the move to change the whole system. There’s no other way but to change the system. But since the problem is systemic, the best way to address this is through legislative action to achieve a well defined institutional interfacing and coordination to address overlapping. My assurance is: change shall start now and it will be from MARINA.” Roulette. He grits his teeth on the number and protocols of review centers. The examination system may have been compromised already, hacked by vested interests. Seafarers are readily squeezed as there are only three exams center since 2014. It is planned in all the regions but funds are not yet appropriated, neither re-aligned. Sample of the tragic examinations joke: Walk-in either 1am or 1pm, assigned to a numbered cubicle and there encode your name. And voila, 100% passing! Now, Capt. Diaz removed numbers on the cubicle, shuffled the sitting (read, cheating) arrangements. Go, answer --- and, only 36% passed. With new uploads of questions, 41%, then 48% passed, till a high of 68% when they started to study seriously. But never 100% passing anymore.

Capt. Diaz assures this is being looked into, misdeclaration of above 500 gross tonnage to reduce taxes and others. Vessels will be remeasured in tandem with incentives, like being able to take students for shipboard training (SBT) required by CHEd and MARINA for a win-win compromise.

The man.

Aside from SBT, essential equipment (i.e. expensive simulators) and balanced, basic curriculum are not met. Qualification of instructors is suspect. He points the sad ratio between vessels and students for degree courses. Just 500 students cannot each find a berth on enough vessel. Now, take the thousands more enrolled nationwide and it’s mind blowing.

He notched over a score of years in crew and manning, technical and operational, policy management, retiring and honored as Chairman Emeritus.

However, Capt. Diaz creates a committee to address the audit of maritime higher education and institutions. A drastic cut will shake current stability and have critical effect on the pool of manpower 10 to 15 years down the lane.

His areas of interest are disaster and humanitarian relief, education, environment, poverty alleviation, social services. He is also into Independent Coursework, management and organizations.

EMSA did not really push to close schools, just upgrade them to world standard. Or else! Perhaps on guilt complex, Government went on a wrath of do-this and do-that, or else! As expected, schools countered with appeals and grudging adjustments. Just like any huge problem, a compromise is to micro-manage into smaller bits --- the better ones shining, the lesser ones surviving.

He used to teach at PMMA-Bonifacio and an active member of the alumni association where he donated three buildings.

Capt. Diaz looks positive on the Maritime High School curriculum. After graduation and sometime at sea, they may aspire to be officers. He is focused on this pragmatic given that the latest Manpower Report from the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) and International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) forecasts a serious future shortage of seafarers: •

Current shortfall of about 16,500 officers (2.1%)

•

Additional 147,500 officers by 2025.

As Executive Director, Diaz is responsible for training and certification of Filipino seafarers to conform with the international Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).

He holds a BS Marine Transportation, Navigation & Seamanship Major, Master Mariner, from the PMMA. Batch ’82.

Data base. “I am 55 years old, this is my last chance to help government who has been very good to me,” he waxes sentimental. But passion still burns on a priority: the MARINA data base aching for maintenance since 1994. He warns this computer system could collapse anytime. The Dept. of Budget Management (DBM) cannot as yet allocate the PhP5-million needed. When pressed with an emergency, he is willing to advance funds. But to avoid wagging misinterpretations, he is appealing with the JICA to consider a grant, pretty please. And soon. This, on his 5th day at work.

Capt. Diaz underscores he is not giving them a hard time but guiding them to read their books again. He believes exams must not be so hard for majority to fail nor too easy for all to pass. Fact is, he is happy on scores between 78 to 82% passing. On the Board of Examiners, there is serious considerations to add three more to complete the line-up. A shortlist of nominees is ready but still in confidential wrap. He’s pushing to have a new exams program which should be up and running in a month. Marino World. Tonnage and power on the Shipping Registry are reduced to avoid taxes and other requirements. Cadets suffer, they cannot take examinations nor qualify because of the “lower” tonnage and power than required.

Marine officers assess seafarers

MARINO WORLD

Shipping

CREWCONNECT GLOBAL CONFERENCE 2015 CrewConnect Global Conference

Marine human resources (HR) industry gears for a two-day conference, one of the largest and most influential for trade professionals. This is CrewConnect Global Conference, scheduled on November 15 to 16 at the Manila Mariott Hotel, Philippines. The organisers are putting a new spin on the 17th edition with three highly anticipated conference tracks. And for the first time, members of the industry can visit the CrewConnect Exhibition by 80 companies, at no charge, for innovative solutions for crewing and training requirements. “We’re going one step further to present an all-new experience,” shares Kathryn Barnard, Portfolio Director at KNect365 Maritime Events. “Visitorship at CrewConnect Global has grown steadily over the years, and this reflects the increasing importance of our platform to the maritime community, in addressing current recruitment and welfare challenges.” Barnard adds, “… we’re rolling out new initiatives to help the sector innovate seafarer recruitment, training, and HR practices. It’s our goal to highlight topics that will be most important to the shipping industry, and the people at its core.” By bringing the supply chain under one roof, CrewConnect Global encourages collaboration across industry segments. It expects to receive over 1,000 professionals this year; features a significantly larger exhibition area (2,300 sqm) and new events in a bid for a larger audience.

MARINO WORLD

Wider Programme, Three Conference Tracks As a leading platform for the development of a holistic maritime crewing and training community, CrewConnect Global ensures delegates of a well-rounded perspective with the introduction this year of three tracks. Attendees can personalise conference experience by participating in choice sessions across the following tracks: •

Recruitment & Retention

•

Maritime Education & Training

•

Safety at Sea/Seafarer Lifestyle & Welfare

CrewConnect Global’s new conference programme is specially tailored to engage, fuel, and challenge conventional practices that are influencing crew development and human resource management. Industry focus groups have also been engaged to inject fresh perspectives and new energy into the 2016 conference line-up. With more than 30 crewing and training seminars scheduled over the two days, the CrewConnect Global conference will see delegates walking away re-energised and equipped with effective strategies ready for implementation. Networking, & Learning Opportunities Previously only accessible to conference delegates, the CrewConnect Exhibition is now free-to-attend for trade professionals in the maritime HR industry. Visitors may uncover new solutions and key developments to crewing business,

recruitment, training, and in-house HR practices. The exhibition also opens networking possibilities outside of the conference seminars. For free passes to the exhibition floor, apply at get.knect365.com/crewconnectglobal-visitor-enquiry. “CrewConnect Global will be extensively packed with thoughtprovoking content, live maritime education and training (MET) learning labs, recruitment strategy task forces, and exclusive networking opportunities,” Barnard concludes. “We are also in the midst of finalising a new programme of social activities aimed at fostering new business relationships between representatives of leading shipping companies. We are hopeful CrewConnect Global 2016 will deliver a most robust experience unlike any other.” CrewConnect Global Conference is organised by KNect365 Maritime, part of the Knowledge and Networking Division of Informa PLC. The Conference is the world’s leading manpower platform for networking and knowledge sharing in the maritime industry. More than an exhibition, CrewConnect Global connects industry professionals looking for new products and solutions that can help innovate seafarer recruitment, training, and human resource practices. For more, simply visit www. crewconnectglobal.com.

THOME GROUP 16 Raﬄes Quay, #43-01 Hong Leong Building, Singapore 048581 Telephone: 65-6220 7291 Email: communicaaons@thome.com.sg Website: www.thome.com.sg

Exceeding operaaonal eﬃciency and compliance standards

Opinion

ORIGIN OF SHIPPING & INSURANCE by F.R. CHOWDHURY

Shipping is one of the oldest businesses; similarly, risk management and insurance are equally old ventures having developed in support of the shipping industry. In those early days, the ship-owner, trader and ship-captain were a single entity. A rich person builds a ship, buys commodities in his area and then sails to another place for business. He would barter his goods with different commodities in the new land. Gradually, gold was used, then coins, and later, currency became the medium of exchange. A pioneer in shipping becomes rich but turns unwilling anymore to undergo all the rolling and pitching at sea. He employs a trusted man as captain of his ship but remains owner of both ship and cargo. With no radio telecommunications, he would know of things only when the ship docks back. Some ships were never seen again – either lost at sea or hijacked by pirates. Insurance. A businessman came up with a bright idea: agreed to share the risk in exchange of a token payment. Because he shared similar risks with few other ship-owners, he managed to keep the premium low and flourished. This is how hull insurance was born, demanding to know “how good the ship is and the risk it represents.” More changes took place, like the ship-owner no longer cargo owner. The ship-owner placed a ship and accepted cargoes from different traders. The cargo owners also looked for similar security and there came the concept of cargo insurance. Hundreds of years later, ship-owners came across claims for damages too big to be handled by a single ship-owner. Ship-owners got together and created a common fund for such claims. This became protection and indemnity insurance, now called P&I clubs. Classification. Then came Classification Societies that influenced the design, construction, equipment and safety of ships. Classification is defined as “a division by groups in order of merit” – and this was what was precisely attempted in the early days. It was done for the benefit of ship-owners, cargo owners and underwriters to ascertain the risk a particular ship represented. The origin of classification is linked with the name Lloyd. Lloyd. It was customary in the 17th and 18th centuries for merchants, shippers and underwriters to meet in tea shops/coffee houses in London to discuss business. Ship lists were circulated in these establishments which contained information concerning ships. These lists provided underwriters with the degree of risk in insuring the ships and their cargoes. One such coffee house was owned by Edward

MARINO WORLD

Lloyd, originally at Tower Street then moved to Lombard. Lloyd provided a list or bulletin about ships as far back as 1702. It was withdrawn for a time but re-issued again in 1734. It has continued to the present day as Lloyd’s List (perhaps, the oldest newspaper still being published even if on digital edition only today)). The last printed issue was 19th December, 2013. Another development took place when housewives of Bristol area approached their MP Samuel Plimsol to do something in Parliament to save seafarers lives from the greedy ship-owners who would overload the ship with cargo. The solution was the load line act passed in 1876 called the Plimsol Mark Act named after the author. Radio. One of the most remarkable improvements to safety came through radio-communication by Marconi. An Italian, he developed his first radio transmission and reception facility in the UK in 1897 on the boat called Electra given to him by British government. With time, information on ships became more formalized on a published Register. Today, this Register is the Number One reference for shipbrokers, charterers and others keen to know about the status/condition of ships. Originally, classifying ships and insuring ships went under the same roof. Eventually, the two activities became completely separate and took the name of the coffee house proprietor. Classification was named Lloyd’s Register of Shipping and the oldest classification society founded in 1760. It examines merchant ships and classify them according to their condition. The expertise and activities of the Organization extend wider than the shipping field – shorebased industries including steel mills and oil refineries, offshore explorations and installations. Lloyd’s Register is an independent authority, non-profit, relies on fees charged for surveys and other services rendered. It is controlled by a Committee representing ship-owners, ship and engine builders, the Institute of London Underwriters, the Royal Institute of Naval Architects and Shipbuilders. Other classification societies follow the pattern set by LR. They are like independent standard institutes having common rules. A ship or an installation remains classed so long it meets the standard. They operate without any bias, hence trusted by shipowners, traders, underwriters. Even national administrations delegate statutory surveys and certifications to them. However delegated the functions are to classification societies, the administration as Party State shall always bear the responsibility. Self-control. Insurance and classification developed on their own without legal constrains; no national or international laws governing, they were self-regulatory and worked wonderfully well. By making necessary Act of Parliament,

the British Government formally legitimised the working of Lloyds. Hence, London remains the centre for resolution of most legal disputes and arbitration. Shipping became the most international business becoming subject to international protocols and conventions. Most of the early conventions were drafted by CMI and adopted through diplomatic conference called by a lead nation. After the World War II and development of the UN network, most of the maritime conventions are adopted through a number of UN agencies such as UNCTAD, UNCITRAL, ITU, ILO and IMO. Today, UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the international guardian of safety and security of operation of ships and protection of the marine environment. However, neither the UN nor any of its agencies can enforce the international standards to ships around the word. This aspect is left with sovereign nations. It is the duty of the Party States to transpose the provisions of international conventions into national legislation and enforce them over own ships (wherever they may be) and other ships within their jurisdiction. This measure is known as Flag State and Port State jurisdiction. Docks. Ports were based on hinterland – either near raw materials to load or large population to deliver goods. Natural locations were sheltered basins or mouth of the river going to sea. Port facilities would normally develop a few miles up-stream where depth of water still sufficient to navigate safely. Eventually, a bridge will cross the river creating a hub of trading activities. London, New York, Calcutta and Chittagong are examples. In today’s economy of scales, main line global operators have big ships touching key points around the world. So, port and transhipment facilities are developing in key junction points like Singapore, Hambantota (Sri Lanka) and Algeciras (Spain). However, ports are not as well regulated as shipping. There is no UN agency to deal exclusively with port matters although ILO and UNCTAD have developed guidelines that followed by sea-ports. Ports provide shore-based facilities that shipping requires to operate. This is why many international shipping regulations also extend over ports like SOLAS, COLREG and MARPOL (protecting the marine environment). On top of national contingency plan against accidental pollution, ports are required to have their own contingency plans; also working with maritime administration for compliance of ISPS Code; handling dangerous goods in conformity with IMDG Code. IMO has developed training standards for marine pilots and wants ports to have efficient VTS. (fazlu.chowdhury@btinternet.com)

Education

ON HIRING PREFERENCE

MARITIME FOCUSED GROUP

Consistent with its lead in professional development, the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) organized a focused discussion group on “Skills, Knowledge, or Attitude: Employers Preference in Hiring Cadets/Cadettes.” This was hosted by MPCF, Legaspi City (Albay) and Canaman (Camarines Sur) campuses held last September 20 at Hotel H2O, Manila Ocean Park, Manila. “We would like to solicit inputs from our partners…we would like to have a serious evaluation and assessment of our Shipboard Training Program (SBT) specially those that we have with our partners,” says Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, MPCF Executive VP. San Pedro, also head of Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL), continues, “Not just cadets but cadettes as well…(W)e’re taking a serious look into how to help our cadettes in the program to become officers as well.” Equal opportunity is an institutional commitment for MPCF. A known advocate and activist for gender equality, Ms. San Pedro is happy to have synergized such MPCF policy with their partners: “to take in our cadettes. But again it is not that easy, so this exercise, this activity hopes to help us evaluate and assess our program and move on to a better SBT program for the institutions,” she elaborates.

MARINO WORLD

Participants. San Pedro, with MPCF’s Ms. Marian Her. Lazaro, Capt. Job Bienvenido Espares and Mr. Estelito Clemente led discussions with representatives of its partners: Manning agencies •

Capt. Leo Nagrampa, CEO, TCM Tsakos Maritime Phils.

•

Paul Roxas and Lucas Jacinto, Phoenix Maritime

•

Abegail Baraoidan, Veritas Maritime

•

Capt. Joven Rinon and C/E Ric Villavicencio, D’ Amico Shipping

•

Roberto Dagalea, CrewCare

•

Dan Aldrich Tolentino, Marlow Navigation Phils.

•

Sherwin Narvadez, Maine Marine Phils.

Domestic shipping •

Francis Cusi, Starlite Ferries

•

Capts. Renie Modelo, Teofilo Nieto, Jr.,; Tom Gunenez, Jr. and Melvin Dalacat, Archipelago Philippine Ferries

Discussions. MPCF asked questions towards an insightful process to aid the institution in determining how effective its SBT program is. There were no right nor wrong answers; rather, reactions are treated as inputs from the partners that will lead MPCF to craft a better SBT program. Some participants shared experiences with the MPCF cadets and those from other schools. In the open forum, many gave ideas and suggestions on how to address concerns. Preferences. CrewCare’s Dagalea: Looks first at the behavior, attitude of cadets; for their personality, how they approach work, with their colleagues. (Are they) computer-literate as vessels are computerized; (On the engine part) they should have welding background not to become welders but to impart knowledge to subordinates. Marlow’s Tolentino: Knowledge, we usually base it in Math, Physics and simple technical questions. Interview, we look into the confidence, the courtesy, the industry knowledge. If they could communicate, if they do pass the

examinations. The neatness, snappiness. Archipelago’s Gunenez: On top of English verbal skills, cadets must know incident reporting; also risk assessment, identification of hazards onboard. Safety must be a habit, unlike wearing helmets and safety shoes just when there are inspectors. Archipelago’s Modelo: Electricians were removed from their ships; hence, junior officers must have marine electricity training. Chief Engineers don’t go aboard vessels without electricians but compromises when junior officers have good electrical know-how. Phoenix’s Roxas: Cadets must be tutored on problem solving. Specific problemsolving should start at school to become a habit. This is a skill helpful onboard. TCM’s Nagrampa: Financial literacy must be taught. For one, they will not pass off exams because of lack of funds; often, it is just a matter of budgeting and not of limited resources.

Veritas VP Roxas Tracking. San Pedro: “This is one forum that is most welcome, having all these companies, maybe competitors outside but here we are all partners. We will do this every year, we are targeting two focused group discussions. First one is focused on SBT. Everything you have mentioned, we are tracking all of them. And these are all very good inputs to use because we really want continual development of our SBT program.” The project is reflective of MPCF’s total commitment to professionalism and development of its wards, the cadets.

And the cadettes, too, on equal footing and career opportunities as bannered by Ms. San Pedro herself. While lesser schools are constrained on survival and costs, MPCF is upbeat on upgrades like newer facilities, an electronic library linked with the world, and searching for better ways to maximizing relations and practicums with more business partners. Ms. San Pedro quips that such is not a business strategy. MPCF’s leadership is actually a recognition of a principle of life: anything that does not grow starts to die.

Focused group detail concerns

MARINO WORLD

Manning

CREWCARE INC.

STRONGER, BETTER SERVICES Maritime worldwide is in crisis, some closing, others merging. But CrewCare (CCI) is among those plodding ahead, above troubled waters, on a strong foundation. Crew Care President and GM Josephine M. Roldan still beams with energy, with positive aura, “I’m always positive with what our crew will contribute, with what our principals will give us and also positive with all of us working altogether for a good cause.” That triangle of synergy --- of her crew, of the principals, teamwork --- those are Ms. Roldan’s potion to make CrewCare bigger, win-win for all to be happy. And she is steeled by the past, “I already experienced here the down period, then we rise up again, just like a tide, going like that. I’m not worried at all, it’s up to our God …” Amidst the world crises on the maritime industry, she projects with optimism that “everything will be fine in the next, not few months, but I think before the year ends we’re okay. Even today we’re okay but more so in the next few months because more vessels will be added so we will be able to give more jobs again to more people.” One can feel her leadership albeit inclement business weather, “We are altogether, whether there are ups there are downs, we just have to go on with life, anyway that is work, that is the passion, that is our bread and butter.” Ms. Roldan’s go-go attitude is backed by three newbuildings expected this December from shipyards in China, kamsarmax bulk carriers. A new type (maximum length overall 229 meters, bigger than a panamax), these are suitable for berthing at Port Kamsar (Republic of Guinea), where loading bauxite is restricted to vessels not more than 229 meters.

MARINO WORLD

CCI Pres Roldan Entrenched. CrewCare (CCI) operated for a year at the Tesoro building in Ermita, Manila, then back to its own at CrewCare Building, 415 UN Avenue corner Alhambra Street, Ermita. The old facility was completely demolished, a full foundation built, complete with retrofits at a cost of P30-million. Inauguration is scheduled at the last quarter of the year expecting as main guest Allseas Marine Greek Principal/Shipowner, GM George Skrimizeas. Owner’s Representative Alexandros Champaios comments, “...it’s a brand new period now for CrewCare, with new establishment, new facilities… I think it’s like all the industries goes up, all the industries goes down, we are among the companies that have strong establishment, good foundations.” Long-term. While two new vessels were delivered last August, ten were sold earlier for refinancing current operations. More importantly, this cycling is done to renew the fleet to

operational best. From 40, CCI now supplies crew to 26 container and bulk carrier vessels including the three new ships coming in December, mostly Liberian flagged. Roldan validates this is a management style; selling old ships to procure new ones, always upgrading the fleet to competitive standards. Champaios confirms they look at crises as business opportunities, that they are for the long haul, not just for a few years. That even if they are not making it as well as 2008, they will still improve their fleet, to … “very young fleet, average age is less than 6 years old.” And the business mantra is always long term projection and long term strategy. An underlay of these is stubborn faith to “… overcome difficulties and always believe that no matter what hardship, no matter what the maritime situation is doing, we will strive to do the best.” Greeks have a long tradition in maritime, seafarers already even before recorded times. Today, merchant mariners will come to CCI even for contract so that they can include in their biodata of having worked with a Greek company. This seems to be a key to being hired by other companies as they have

Strength. Champaios readily impresses people is the strength of the company. Particularly when, “Everybody will go, will take one more step to help, will do their one extra task,” underscores Champaios. The Greek owner’s representative may play with words but not of meanings: “We cannot be liked by anybody, nobody is liked by anybody. By the ones that we are liked and that we are followed still and we have good relations, these are the ones that we want to keep. All the persons that are currently with us are happy for all these years. For me it’s a very big result, proof to show that something has worked so many years.” Future. CCI holds a cadetship program with four schools Champaios, Owner’s Rep. nationwide like Mariners Polytechnic Colleges worked with a Greek standard of discipline Foundation (Bicol), and competence. University of Cebu (Visayas), Asian Institute of Maritime Studies and Lyceum International Great owners. Maritime Academy (Batangas). Roldan “I am very happy that they are very happy with what I’m doing for them, my tenth year with them (Greeks)... Since 1981 (she was )with Norwegians, British, so very old in the manning industry…I was afraid before…But when I met the owners, they are very nice, very good, so I stayed…” Shipping is a 24-7 job: always communicating, giving instructions, no “vacations” as in other careers. But Ms. Roldan says, “… it’s okay with me as long as everything will be running smoothly.”

Cadetship performance in the last five year shows 339 trained well, 261 employed solid and 19 promoted towards a proud career. Others ranked higher as most of CCI cadets are OIC holders. The Cebu office is a great nexus in the recruitment of promising cadets, of quality

officers. Above these, CCI prestige is solidified given its sterling performance in the maritime industry. Cadets may be reduced but the batch is projected to be enough for December, or earlier. It is elating that many have been with CCI since 2000, that’s a decade and a half! And more are on career upgrade to chief mates, master license, chief engineer --- these reflect CCI provides solid fundamentals to earn a living and sail with the best of the world. Champaios sees these as results since they, “(F)ocus a lot in training and development of seafarers and taking and monitoring weak points, where we can treat them, in-house or external trainings… trying to promote and show them that they can have long-term employment here, our vessels world class.” Regardless the business situation, everyone is paid on time in full. This is a major policy, a pivotal commitment. And truly honored because the company is solid, financially viable even if others hedge on their responsibility with their crew. On top of being progressive management, the priority on wages is a reflection of respect to the seafarers --- a key component in the development and continuing success of the company. Not surprising, retention is very high at 90%. The few who transfer often times return realizing career edge at CCI. Fact is, some even wait for 6 to 7 months on the line-up just to be with CCI,”… Indications how we are handling the crew, attending to their individual needs, requests, we are always listening, what we can do, how can we help,” declares Champaios. He continues, “It’s the standard of our work, it’s our dedication, how are we aiming for the future, that’s about it…so far history has proven so.”

She is very effective, CCI has no case against in government; save for one in POEA and CrewCare won that. Some seafarers fall prey to opportunistic ambulance chasers who poison the minds of mariners to file outrageous claims and to wallow in underserved benefits. She is also very happy with the staff being passionate in what they do, so important that everybody is doing the job well. She confesses, “Everybody is strengthening each one of us so I am a bit unloaded with so many responsibilities…”

New vessel for the fleet

MARINO WORLD

Manning

Capt. Panizal hypes the crew

MY BIANCO ZEALAND ARREST

FILIPINO CREW HOME AT LAST After three months of vessel arrest, the Filipino crew of MV Bianco Zealand touched home, September 6th. This is a positive development of an ugly facet of seafaring, made worse in a time the maritime industry is keeling with financial pitch and rolls. Heading the repatriated merchant mariners is 2/M Danilo B. Lubon, Jr., with 14 others: 3/M Roberto V. Alcantara; 4/E Julio B. Cruzat; AB Ernie V. Calicdan; AB Mark Vincent C. Enclonar; AB Antonio W. Uberas, Jr.; OS Jonhrey C. Belarde; OS Niel Z. Brosas; Fitter Isidro Amalio P. Mosqueda; Fitter Ryan P. Belmonte; Oilers Ronald V. Batislaong, Mansueto S. Sardinola Jr. and Joseph M. Nillos; Messmen Denmar C. Cainglet and Mark Anthony A. Saldana. Local manning agent, Evic Human Resource Management, the local manning agent, facilitated the repatriation in close quarter coordination with the shipowner and the shipmanager. They have to navigate legal rock shoals and financial claims, even for and against the seamen.

MARINO WORLD

FaceBook. A posting was picked up by Marino World on the MV Bianco Zealand (3FET4-IMO 9082908) Discharging at Port Sudan May 29, 2016. Filipino crew onboard refuse to take duty (mutiny, in the eyes of the Ship Master) claiming: •

Food discrimination, the Master unable to discipline the Chief Cook to prepare food for everybody, not just for his fellow Greeks;

•

Capt. Ioannis Georgianakis does not listen to complaints of the 15 Filipino crew.

•

Resignation letters were sent to DST Shipping (April 27th) and on May 2, 2016 signed by the Chief Mate, Chief Engineer and Captain.

•

All they want are plane tickets for home because “we cannot afford to suffer again for a long time again with insufficient food.”

•

Vessel currently discharging at Port Sudan, ETC 09 June 2016

Inside views. Marino World gathers from Lubon that Greeks use food control to retaliate against Filipinos who are paid monthly while the Greeks are not. However, up until February, Filipinos were also unpaid for three months. At the Black Sea, eight Greeks: Captain, C/M, C/E, 2/E, 3/E, cook, bosun, and electrician missed 7 to 8 months wage. Bad blood escalated, cook and AB squabble even on fish caught at sea --- May 27th, kitchen and galley were closed. Pressured, the shipowner paid everybody and the Greeks were repatriated. The Filipinos stayed and by July, food and diesel are getting scarce; temperature rising without the generator; bonfires are used to cook. Attempts to repatriate failed in June and August. By August, ISWAN (an NGO dedicated to seafarer welfare) came into the

picture; Mr. Jun Pablo and Marino World coordinated assuaging mariners’ families not to worry too much. Sadly, the Filipino crew splinters, the hotheads and the bitter. Some are angry on the manning agency, some support it; a few filing complaints with the government’s POEA. Aside from daily blabber and hard speaks. Government. There is a feeling Government is inutile, unable to extend practical help when needed. It seems a reason is the absence of a labor attaché in Sudan with Cairo (Egypt) as the nearest Philippine legation. Thus, Evic sent a letter to Cairo explaining the situation and desire of the Filipino crew to go back home at once.

Air QR0928 arriving and clearing Customs and Immigration formalities at NAIA past midnight. Two OWWA representatives offered free overnight lodging at the OWWA Center. Three accepted but later booked elsewhere given the Spartan and poor accommodation: a foamed pillow and watch your belongings! Facilities are now a far cry when they were new.

Owner. Unresolved is DST Shipping claim against the Filipino crew, possibly for US$500,000 on a loss of US$2-million for 50 days delay of cargo as a result of the “mutiny.” DST says “the acts of piracy and mutiny” started at Crete, thence Port Said and from there, the refusal to continue.

Home again!

The Greece Ministry of Merchant Navy demanded on the vessel owner to immediately repatriate its six nationals within ten days. Similar action for the Filipino crew was requested from the Ministry but failed to elicit any response, neither from the shipowner. Local government agency of direct concern, DFA OUMWA, was unwilling to give statements nor updates, parroting the with standard response, “We don’t talk directly to the media. We have spokesperson.” But if one tries the spokesperson, one goes again through the merry-go-round of certain uncertainties. Home again. The crew was flown 3-1/2 hours from Khartoum to Hamad, Sudan; then the 9 hours leg to Manila on Qatar

Evic’s Operations Manager, Capt. Raul Panizal, is a trooper and holds his candle on the crisis. It helps to have weathered three earlier suspensions to know what best to do. He even recalls challenges when Evic does not have the money to repatriate crew victimized by pirates. Capt. Panizal is even amused on offer of OWWA then to lend Evic the money for the ticket, but payable on demand. And that being OWWA beneficiaries, seafarer families may borrow money while claims are being processed --- a clear admission of a long wait!

It wants POEA, ITF and Marino World to realize these, and “ … the fact that while the Bianco Zealand crew is paid even though they have not worked and fulfilled their contractual obligations, fed regularly with catering, with fresh water onboard etc,” the crew still goes to authorities and “… create trouble but nothing happens with the DST Drammen crew that is unpaid for many months in the middle of nowhere and with limited supplies onboard the vessel, especially after its management was taken by the Norwegians who do not even have ISM/ DOC certification! “

MARINO WORLD

MV BIANCO ZEALAND ARREST

2/M Danilo Lubon took the photo with DST name of vessel moored in Sudan.

DST goes further with litanies of damages, increasing estimate of possible claim in excess of US$2.8-million (inclusive of the US$500,000 cost of cargo delay and US$350,000 opportunity loss on the sale of the vessel). Business. It seems DST Shipping is in craggy waters given the MV Bianco Zealand situation and two other vessels also arrested by Norwegian bareboat charterers. MV Oslo crew to date are unpaid; MV Drammen crew repatriated September but still four months unpaid. Evic essays the worse for previous principal Elmira, started when a vessel was hijacked by pirates and took eight months to release. This started the slides, seven vessels went bankrupt, arrested all over the world, with Evic slapped by POEA with three suspensions of operations. Capt. Panizal laments POEA is not helpful to business on the red. It merely increases penalties (from 20 doubling to 40 and unbelievable to 400!), as if agents nor owners wish for business to turn bad and bankrupt.

DST Drammen was just sold as scrap, even if owner Tsolakis was maneuvering for a bareboat charter. But other cases piled on it forcing a deal at US$1.2million scrap value. Of course, Tsolakis will also slide blames on agents (like Evic), washing hands on other liabilities like repatriation obligations. Moving on. Chiotelis law firm is handling the claims for the seamen, the lawyer is Dr.Abdelrahman Elkhalifa. The crew special power of attorney (SPA) for Chiotelis to act legally for the claimants. Nothing much to worry since wages are on top priority over any other claim (except for taxes in some countries). Panizal talks positive on the crew, that risks are collateral to any profession; more so on international seafaring with a clear and imminent danger of piracy. He suggests to move on, take the negative experience as just a bad dream.

Crew on survival mode

MARINO WORLD

Governance

FILIPINO SEAFARERS ON HANJIN Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Chief Hans Leo Cacdac reassures Filipino seafarers on Hanjin ships are steady on the job; all 78 of them keep their posts. Cacdac confirms the assurance of the manning agency of the seafarers during a press conference last October 4th. This is part of the First 100 Days report of the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) under the new administration. Cacdac took the OWWA post October 3rd; Prosecutor Claro Arellano winds exit formalities at the Justice Department to take over as POEA administrator replacing Cacdac. H. Ocean Manila Meanwhile, C/E Meliton Paragas was quick to assure Marino World that H.Ocean Manila is steady on course. Paragas is GM and CEO of Ocean Manila located at Intramuros, Manila. C/E Paragas clarifies they still supply around 200 Filipino seafarers onboard Hanjin ships. Some vessels were sold to the Korean Development Bank, in turn, awarded back to H. Ocean Manila Manila the crewing. The rest were given to Korpil Shipmanagement and Manning, Solpia Marine and Shipmanagement and Southfield Agencies which are sister companies of H. Ocean Manila. H. Ocean crews a total of 80 vessels, supplying seafarers on Turkish and Korean principals car ships and bulk carriers and on 40 Hanjin container bulks. It has 1,200 seafarers in its pool, around 800 onboard always updated on wages and benefits. Job security. GM Paragas assures the crew not to worry on their job security as they are on solid stand.

MARINO WORLD

Fact is, seafarers may choose which companies they are to serve. The alternatives are mostly sister companies all rooted from Korpil, the mother corporation. He even announced the coming of three new principals, two Koreans and a Japanese. Paragas reiterated these twice on a panel interview at the POEA. Hanjin interests are up November, being weighed by the banks whether to bankroll or add more on its fiduciary priorities. Decision may be forthcoming by December. Selling of assets is normal business practice as entrepreneurs leverage on individual projections. REEDEREI NSB. It has seven vessels chartered to Hanjin when the latter declared bankruptcy. But it clarifies it is just the ship manager, not the owner (which are currently in negotiation with Hanjin on delayed payments). The seven vessels are in anchorage at different harbors, one arrested in Vancouver. However, the crew are allegedly well-cared for with wages regularly paid. NSB Niederelbe Schiffahrtsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG (REEDEREI NSB) was founded in 1982 at the metropolitan region of Hamburg, Germany. It has a current fleet of 72 ships, giving ship management services, newbuilding supervision, technical consulting, and crewing services for its own and third-party ships. REEDEREI NSB is a member of the NSB GROUP with 130 shore staff and about 1,700 seafarers work for the ship manager.

New OWWA Administrator Cacdac

Mission to Seafarers. This global maritime welfare charity offered to help Hanjin Shipping in providing support to 2,500 seafarers onboard 97 container ships. The South Korean container shipping giant, the world’s seventh-largest line, filed for receivership in August, putting thousands of jobs at risk. Some port authorities are refusing entry as ships could be arrested on arrival. The financial situation is at a critical stage and funds to unload the ships remain in doubt. The Mission’s Ken Peters, Director of Justice and Public Affairs, says they have offered support to Hanjin Shipping and their seafarers. He clarifies, “If the ships continue to be blocked from entering port, there could be a welfare crisis for these seafarers, as vessels will quickly run out of food, fuel and essential provisions. Seafarers will be very anxious and their families at home will be concerned and distressed.” It issued a global alert to all 200 port welfare teams to be ready to assist Hanjin seafarers, to publish Seafarer Helpline details for seafarers to know where to find help. Simon Ro, Port Chaplain Busan (South Korea) says their ‘Flying Angels’ are ministering seafarers there. These are ten volunteers from the Korea Maritime and Ocean University monitoring food, wages and other basics for the stranded crew.

Feature

RCMB NEW LEADERSHIP The Rotary Club of Makati Buendia for Rotary Year 2016-2017: Carlos Mateo, President (RY 20162017); Sonrisa David, Presidentelect (RY 2017-2018); PP Reynaldo Quipit, Vice President; Ma. Raquel Villegas, Secretary; Vic Valenzuela, Treasurer; Brando Cabalsi and Ramon Ona, Auditors, Edit Onglao, Public Relations Officer and PP Norberto Tria, Sgt.-At-Arms. Other key officers: Club Administration, PP Isagani Ramos; Vocational Service, PP Uly Sevilla; Community Service, PP Reynold Sabay (MyMET); Areas of Focus, PP Tony Ilagan; International Service, Benito Asuncion; Youth Service, Nel Espanola and Mariel David, (Pal Maritime); The Rotary Foundation, PP Manuel David (Western Shipping ) and Public Image, Manuel Cantos and Lyn Bacani (Marino World). RI District 3830 Governor Edna Sutter with district officers attended the induction held September 22 at the McKinley Hills Information Center, Taguig City.

MARINO WORLD

www.sagradacorazonmedicalcenter.com

Sagrada Corazon Medical & Allied Services Center, Inc.

1057 M.H Del Pilar St. Ermita Manila, Philippines TRUNKLINES: 524-128, 524-7109

Clinic Services -PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS -- POST EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS

Accreditation:

-- ON SITEANNUAL MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS

•Phil. Department of Health

-- FACILITIES & ECG MACHINES

•Phil. Overseas Employment Administration

-- MANAGEMENT OF REPATRIATION CASES

•Marina •STANDARD P & I CLUB •U.K. OIL & GAS

•NORWEGIAN MARITIME DIRECTORATE •PANAMA MARITIME AUTHORITY •VANUATU MARITIME AUTHORITY •MALAYSIAN MARITIME DEPARTMENT •MARSHALL ISLAND •DANISH MARITIME

- MEDICAL CONSULTATIONS -- SURGICAL CONSULTATIONS

-- VACCINATIONS -- LABORATORY SERVICES -- X-RAY & ULTRASOUND SERVICES --DENTAL SERVICES -- OPTOMETRIC SERVICES VISUAL TEST & COLOR BLINDNES

•PAPUA NEW GUINEA-ACCREDITED CLINIC •INTERNATIONAL MARITIME HEALTH ASSOCIATION - MEMBER

MGM SPORTS FEST Maritime Group in Mall of Asia (MGM) held its first mixed sportsfest at the Mall of Asia Entertainment Area, 6 pm at the SM Bowling Center. Nine companies participated on the three-day meet: 25 Aug, Pre-qualifying /Levelling; 07 Sept, Inter-color tournament and 14 Sept, Championship. Maritime companies within the Manila Bay and Aseana areas pumped off energies to relieve stress, challenge muscle memory and have great fun with industry chums from Klaveness Manning Agency, The Marshall Islands Registry, Grieg Philippines, Norwegian Training Center, Anscor Swire Shipmanagement, Maersk Filipinas Crewing, DNV-GL, VShips/Pacific Ocean Manning and Rickmers Marine Agency Phils. This is the initial phase of solidifying the association’s foundation and foster relationship to grow bigger in the future. Marino World is exclusive media partner, ceremonial ball rolled by Ms. Lyn Bacani, publisher.

Billiards Cue Masters. 8-Ball Double Champion – Vergara, Jazzy & Galolo, Luciano (Vships/ POMI) 9-Balls Single Champion – Capt. Sarmiento, Allan (Rickmers Marine Agency) Bowling, Individual. Arnel Gargoles – First, Highest Pinfalls, Male Elda Salgado – First, Highest Pinfalls, Female Edwin Solidum – 2nd Highest Pinfalls, Male Malou Umali – 2nd Highest Pinfalls, Female -A Clean Sweep for V/ships/POMIJefrey Martin – MVP, 1st MGM bowling tournament (Grieg Maritime) Banjo Reyes – Canal King (DNV)

Team Power. TEAM L – Champion, 1st MGM Bowling Tournament

•

Roberto Imperial, Rickmers (T Captain)

•

(Cha Alar)- Imelda Libed, Anscor

•

Rozellee Infante, Klaveness

•

Jefrey Martin, Grieg

Joey Nanales, Anscor (T Captain)

•

Jenny Endonela, Maersk

•

Sergio Lomenario, Klaveness

•

Gerald Andagan, Rickmers

•

Marlon Cedro, Grieg

•

Amanda Uy, Klaveness

•

Cherleson Dela Cruz, Maersk

•

Leo Aborot, POMI

•

Fe Nicolas – RJ, Maersk

•

Sam Cagaoan, Anscor

•

Joel Abutal, Rickmers

•

(Diana Baetong) – Richard, Maersk

MARINO WORLD

TEAM I – Second Runner-Up

Team K – First Runner Up

•

Jimmy Aro, DNV

•

Joyce Borromeo, Anscor

•

Arnel Gargoles, POMI – T Captain

•

Jenny Sino, MI

•

Eric Fernandez, Klaveness

•

Jobell Cuenca, Klaveness

•

Rodolfo Cayabyab, Grieg

MARINO WORLD

Feature

PTC CEO Gerardo Borromeo receives the Timonel Award from then MARINA Deputy Administrator Atty. Gloria Banas and IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim. Philippine Transmarine Carriers (PTC) was honored by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) with the Timonel Maritime Achievement Award during ceremonies held in celebrations of the Day of the Seafarer last June 25 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Kitack Lim, together with MARINA Deputy Administrator, Atty. Gloria Banas, presented the award to PTC CEO Gerardo Borromeo. The award recognizes PTC’s invaluable contributions to Philippine maritime industry over the last 10 years, particularly for continuously evolving its human resource development for a holistic value chain to mold the Filipino Global Maritime Professional (GMP). Beginning with the Sea Mariners program for students in

PTC AT MARINA TIMONEL AWARDS Grades 7 to 10, which utilizes an outcomes-based approach towards competency building; a Senior Maritime High School track; a college education with cutting edge expertise in Science & Math; and finally, a worldclass professional development course by the World Maritime University (WMU) and other international academic institutions. Going beyond these, PTC has also ensured the overall well-being of its GMPs and their families by providing support services including short-term emergency loans; life skills coaching and seminars; health and wellness programs; youth activities like sports, reading and the arts; and opportunities to own homes in socially vibrant, gated and safe communities through a nationwide seafarer housing program and long-term bridge financing. Finally, PTC maintains a balance between growing its operations and at the same time contributing to global goals toward sustainability. Taking active roles in organizations that advocate for stronger

PHILCAMSAT offers OPITO Courses The Philippine Center for Advanced Maritime Simulation and Training (PHILCAMSAT), in partnership with Northern Marine Management, was officially accredited by the Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization (OPITO) last June 30 to deliver offshore survival training courses. PHILCAMSAT now offers courses on Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), Further Offshore Emergency Training (FOET) and Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) at its MAST Campus in Maragondon, Cavite. The accreditation is yet another testament to the ability of PHILCAMSAT to deliver quality training programs in accordance with international standards.

MARINO WORLD

gender equality measures; the standardization of maritime education and deployment systems to promote transparency and fair compensation; the promotion of safe and efficient shipping; and the formulation of international maritime policies. Together PartyList ANGKLA, PTC was also recognized for efforts in initiating Project Balanghay, the pilot-testing of the K-12 Senior High School Maritime - TechVoc Track. Inspired by the ancient sea vessel called “Balangay,” Project Balanghay is a tripartite initiative between PTC, ANGKLA, and the Department of Education (DepEd). Three early implementer schools were adopted by PTC for the project, with the curriculum developed for the program now being used by over 40 schools nationwide. The Timonel Awards is given by MARINA every two years to recognize exemplary achievements and remarkable contributions of private and public entities or individuals in the maritime industry which have provided a major impact of national, regional or international significance.

Shaping a greater future By Reeve Malabana

installs Full Mission Engine Room Simulator at PAMMA

ince time immemorial, the Philippines has produced generations upon generations of seafarers that earned the respect of global leaders and communities Since time immemorial, Philippines for performing beyond what isthe expected of them, always going the extra mile to prove that they are not has produced generations upon only committed of to their work but areearned proud ofthe being generations seafarers that the model on what future seafarers should aspire to respect of global leaders and communities be. Shaping a greater future As performing such, the maritime institution just acquired for beyond whathas is expected a of Fullthem, Mission Enginegoing Simulator from Poseidon always the extra mile toAsia Inc,Reeve in itsMalabana desire to ensure that its maritime student By prove that theywith arethe notvessel only system committed becomes familiar that they would one work day be running the near to their but areinproud offuture, beinginstalled the inmodel its campus at Perezfuture Blvd, Dagupan Cityshould last July 25. on what seafarers Ms. Michelle Dela Cruz, President of Pangasinan aspire toMarine be. Academy, along with Dr. Joseph Merchant Toledo, VP for Maritime Affairs, formally accepted the Full Simulatorinstitution for the laboratory of its AsMission such, Engine the maritime has just Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering department acquired a Full Mission Engine Simulator after the successful installation and commissioning made Poseidon Asia in mid-June. frombyPoseidon Asia Inc, in its desire to The lady said student that the becomes equipment ensure thatpresident its maritime acquisition is part of the academic institution’s effort with the vessel systemprograms that they tofamiliar continuously strengthen its maritime and inceittime immemorial, thethe Philippines produced make at one par not only best schools would day bewith running inmaritime thehasnear generations upon generations seafarers that infuture, the country but all over world.of at installed itsthe campus Perez earned respect of in global leaders communities “Ourthe new engine simulator is aand clear indication Blvd, Dagupan Citywhat lastMarine 25. for performing beyond isJuly expected of them, that Pangasinan Merchant Academy will always going extra to prove that they Filipino are not continue to the strive to mile produce world-class only theircan work butPresident are proud with of marine engineerstowho stand toe-to-toe the Ms.committed Michelle Cruz, ofbeing the whatDela future should aspire to bestmodel in the on Philippines and seafarers the world,” Ms. Dela Cruz Pangasinan Merchant Marine Academy, be. As such, the Dr. maritime institution hasVP justfor acquired along with Joseph Toledo, a Maritime Full MissionAffairs, Engine Simulator from Poseidon formally theAsia Inc, in its desire to ensure that its accepted maritime student Full Mission forthat the they becomes familiar Engine with theSimulator vessel system would one day of be running in the near future, installed laboratory its Bachelor of Science in in its campus at Perez Blvd, Dagupan City last July 25. Marine Engineering department the Ms. Michelle Dela Cruz, President of after Pangasinan successful installation Merchant Marine Academy, and alongcommissioning with Dr. Joseph Toledo, Maritime Affairs, formally accepted the madeVP byforPoseidon Asia in mid-June. Full Mission Engine Simulator for the laboratory of its Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering department Thethe lady president said that equipment after successful installation andthe commissioning made by Poseidon Asia in acquisition is part ofmid-June. the academic The lady president said that the equipment institution’s continuously acquisition is parteffort of theto academic institution’s effort strengthen maritime programs and and to continuouslyits strengthen its maritime programs make it atitpar thewith best maritime make at not paronly notwith only the bestschools in the country but all over the world. maritime in the country all “Our new schools engine simulator is a clearbut indication overPangasinan the world.Merchant Marine Academy will that continue to strive to produce world-class Filipino marine engineers who can stand toe-to-toe with the best in the Philippines and the world,” Ms. Dela Cruz

enthused. Poseidon Asia Inc has collaborated with UNITEST of Poland for the installation and commissioning of the “Our newEngine engine simulator is a clear Full Mission Simulator at Pangasinan Merchant Marine Academy, installation and commissioning indication that Pangasinan Merchant was madeAcademy possible bywill Dr. continue Rafal Pawletko, Mr. Rafa Marine to strive Brzezanski and Mr. Jaroslaw Kmiotek and Engr. Nolly to produce world-class Filipino marine Albertir.

Engine Room Simulator (VER6-TS with automatic assessment module, the Low Speed Engine Room Simulator LER3D-TS, based on MAN DIESEL (B&W) Training and Watchkeeping LMC type,Certification 165RPM). simulators complies withSection the International for The Seafarers (STCW) Code Convention on Standards of Training A-1/12 and Section B-1/12 and theCertification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Code Section International Safety Management (ISM A-1/12 and Section B-1/12 and the International Safety Management (ISM Code)Section engineers who can stand toe-to-toe with Code)Section 6 and Section 8. 6 and Section 8. the best in the Philippines and the world,” With assistance of Poseidon Asia Inc., 11 With assistance of Poseidon Asia Inc., the Ms. Dela Cruz enthused. participants comprised of engineers underwent simulator’s pilot training conducted by UNITEST from 11 participants comprised of engineers July 26 to 29.the simulator’s pilot training Poseidon Asia Inc has collaborated with underwent Through the Full Mission Engine Simulator, UNITEST of Poland for the installation conducted UNITEST 26 to students ofby PAMMA will befrom able July to learn a new approach to navigation through the different system’s and commissioning of the Full Mission 29. elements,allowing them to familiarize themselves Engine Simulator at Pangasinan Merchant with the duties that they will be required to perform Through Full Mission Engine Marine Academy, installation and once theythe are onboard an actual vessel. For addedstudents immersion, simulator’s Simulator, of the PAMMA willsoftware is commissioning was made possible by Dr. of generating the approach sounds thatto are present in becapable able to learn a new Rafal Pawletko, Mr. Rafa Brzezanski and UNITEST Full Mission Engine Simulator,allows a fully operational engine room, allowing students to through Mr. Jaroslaw Kmiotek and Engr. students to experience the simulation of Nolly a number of navigation anticipate what soundsthe anddifferent alarms aresystem’s considered to enthused. Engine Room Simulator (VER6-TS with to automatic engine simulating the following engine rooms with full elements,allowing be normal or if there isthem a problem in order prepare to familiarize Asia IncMission has collaborated with of themselves assessment module, the Low Speed Engine Room 3DPoseidon Visualization (including state-of-the artUNITEST Instructor them what are necessary actions to dothey onboard when UNITEST Full Engine with the duties that will Poland for the installation and commissioning of the Simulator LER3D-TS, based software) they are encountered for theon firstMAN time.DIESEL (B&W) Simulator,allows students to experience required to perform they areare made FullIncluded Missionin Engine Simulator at Pangasinan LMC type, 165RPM). the Full Mission Engine are: theMerchant Medium be With Poseidon Asia Inc.,once great seafarers Marine Academy, and commissioning The complies with guidance, the International Speed Engine Room Simulator MED3D-TS, based on onboard with thesimulators right tools and the proper and that the simulation ofinstallation a number of engine an actual vessel. was madeengine possible bytype, Dr. Rafal Pawletko, Mr. Rafa Convention ona Standards of Training Certification one main (MAK 500engine RPM), one reduction is why they are leading maritime training partner of simulating the following rooms Brzezanski and Mr. Jaroslaw Kmiotek and Engr.Speed Nolly and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Code Section gear and controllable pitch propeller; the Low many.n For added theand simulator’s with full 3D Visualization (including Albertir. A-1/12 andimmersion, Section B-1/12 the International Safety Management (ISM software is capable of Code)Section generating 6 and Section state-of-the art Instructor software) 8. sounds that are present in a fully the With assistance of Poseidon Asia Inc., 11 Included in the Full Mission Engine operational engine room, allowing participants comprised of engineers underwent the simulator’s training conducted by UNITEST are: the Medium Speed Engine Room students topilot anticipate what sounds and from July 26 to 29.considered to be normal or Simulator MED3D-TS, based on one alarms are Through the Full Mission Engine Simulator, main engine (MAK type, 500 RPM), ifstudents there isofa problem in be order PAMMA will abletotoprepare learn a new approach to are navigation through the different one reduction gear and controllable pitch them what necessary actions to dosystem’s elements,allowing them to familiarize themselves propeller; the Low Speed Engine Room onboard whenthat they arewill encountered with the duties they be required tofor perform Simulator (VER6-TS with automatic the first once theytime. are onboard an actual vessel. For added immersion, the simulator’s software is assessment module, the Low Speed capable of generating the sounds that are present in With Inc., great seafarers Engine Room Simulator LER3D-TS, UNITEST Full Mission Engine Simulator,allows a fullyPoseidon operationalAsia engine room, allowing students to are made with the right tools and the based on MAN DIESEL (B&W) LMC students to experience the simulation of a number of anticipate what sounds and alarms are considered to POSEIDON ASIA,INC. engine165RPM). simulating the following engine rooms with full proper be normal or if thereand is a problem in order to prepare guidance, that is why they type, Unit 1412 Cityland Herrera,#98 va Rufino St.onboard cor. Valero 3D Visualization (including state-of-the art Instructor them what are necessary actions to do when are a are leading maritime training partner of St. software) they encountered forSalcedo the first time. Village Makati City The simulators complies with are: thethe Medium many. Included in the Full Mission Engine With Poseidon8935525; Asia Inc., Telfax great seafarers Tel.No.:+632 No:+632are 893made 1614 Speed Engine Room Simulator MED3D-TS, based with the right tools and the proper guidance, and that International Convention on Standards ofon Email address: manila@poseidon.no one main engine (MAK type, 500 RPM), one reduction is why they are a leading maritime training partner of Website: www.poseidon.no gear and controllable pitch propeller; the Low Speed many.n

installs Full Mission Engine Room Simulator at PAMMA

POSEIDON ASIA,INC. Unit 1412 Cityland Herrera,#98 va Rufino St. cor. Valero St. Salcedo Village Makati City Tel.No.:+632 8935525; Telfax No:+632 893 1614 Email address: manila@poseidon.no Website: www.poseidon.no

Feature

Appreciation for SM Supermalls

MARITIME WEEK GALORE The National Maritime Week (NMW) celebrations were packed and loaded with events nationwide, from September 25-30.

and women of the industry but to the entire Filipino people and the world,” says PPA GM Jay Daniel Santiago.

NMW theme this year is, “Shipping: Indispensable to the World” adopting that of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the policy-making agency of the United Nations on maritime concerns.

Proclamations.

The Ports Authority (PPA) is the lead agency in this year’s celebrations.

The NMW is celebrated by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 1094, 1997 Series, consolidating the National Seafarers Day (NSD), National Maritime Day (NMD) and the National Maritime Week (NMW), making the celebrations more significant.

“(T)he marching order is to make this celebration as significant as possible to make a dent not only in the hearts of the men

The main purpose of PP1094 is to give due recognition to the vital role of Filipino seafarers towards the development of the

Singing Cadets

Philippines as a maritime country. The IMO through Circular 1884 of July 11, 1996, requested all member nations to celebrate the World Maritime Day during the last week of every September. In the Philippines, PP 866 of Sept. 6, 1996 declared Sept. 27, 1996 and the last Friday of September every year, as NMD. Kickoff. On September 25, the Apostleship of the Sea led the 21st NSD celebrations. Maritime stakeholders and cadets participated in the grand parade from Roxas Boulevard to SM MoA grounds. A Catholic Mass was followed by awarding of the winners of the oratorical and art competitions and the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students. More than 50 chaplains and ship visitors from 22 countries joined the NSD. They are also here (September 24 to October 2) for the Ahoy Training Course, an ICMA training and immersion course for port welfare workers serving seafarers from the Philippines. The Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) sponsored a Roman Mass at the Seafarer’s Monument along Roxas Boulevard. It was followed by wreath- laying, a fluvial parade and a Navy concert. Coast Guard (PCG) vessels synchronized blowing of horn and dressing.

MARINO WORLD

WOW. Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL), in partnership with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Ports Authority (PPA), strengthened its campaign to promote passenger safety in domestic ferries across the country via the “WOW ang Biyahe” posters under its WIMA on WATCH or WOW program. On September 26 at the Manila North Harbor Port, the “WOW ang Biyahe” posters were installed at prominent areas in the passenger terminal. Through the efforts of WIMAPHIL’s regional chapters, the activity was conducted across regional offices of MARINA and PPA. The posters will also be in major ports such as Batangas, Legaspi, Matnog, Iloilo, Cebu, Dipolog and Zamboanga, plus onboard all domestic passenger ships under the MARINA. On September 28th, WIMAPHIL partnered with Harborscope for the “Women in Maritime goes Entrepreneur-Ship” held at the Seafarer Center, SM Manila, with exhibits and seminars on entrepreneurship for seafarer families. Environment. The event also highlights earlier (September 27) nationwide ports and harbors clean-up drive, coinciding with the International Coastal Clean-up Day joined in by government agencies and private groups. There was also a nationwide mangrove planting in coastal areas at Coast Guard districts and stations. A beach forest tree planting was undertaken in Las Pinas and Paranaque critical habitat and ecotourism area.

PCG led nationwide lectures and fora on responsible disposal of garbage and environmental protection at identified elementary schools. Olympiads. On September 30, two simultaneous Olympiads were participated in by cadets from maritime schools. The First National Nautical Olympiad was jointly organized by Masters and Mates Association (MMAP) and the Society of Filipino Ship Captains held at the AMOSUP convention hall in Intramuros, Manila. Angkla PartyList sponsored the National Maritime Quiz Bee themed, “Anchor for Excellence,” at the auditorium of the Malayan Colleges of Laguna. Marino World. Hapi Hapi sa Marino is a host of fun, raffle prizes and videoke challenge sponsored

by Marino World for seafarers processing documents at the Seafarer Center, SMManila. Of ten who registered on-the-spot for the singing challenge, winners are: •

O/S Benson Carpintero, Honestly.

•

A/B Nemesio Tenorio, Oh, Carol.

•

O/S Francis Solera, Jr., Words

•

Marsaman Manning Agency cadets presented a special dance with a solo song by a cadet.

These events may be accessed at www. marinoworld.com.ph, FB page Marino World and twitter account on free digital editions. Marino World event partners are Avida Land, PagIBIG Fund, Smart Communications, Platinum Karaoke and Cebu Gems Review Center in cooperation with SM Manila, SM Global Pinoy, Seafarer Center and Joint Manning Group. And more. The United Filipino Seafarers did a motorcade, maritime exhibit, free legal consultation, medical mission, raffle, and karaoke challenge at the Luneta Seafarer Center, Manila. Seaway Shipping Digest and Buhay Marino held a family relations seminar and raffles at the MARINA grounds, T.M. Kalaw, Manila.

Marino World Hapi Hapi sa Marino

Archipelago Philippine Ferries, Starlite Ferries and 2GO Group gave discounted fare on passenger vessels from September 25 to 30.

MARINO WORLD

Education

2016 TOMS

WESTERN UNION 2016 TOMS The real focus of Western Union is one of education, as clarified by Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager-Philippines: “…when you talk about moving money for better, a big chunk of our business really move to the education and the moment you fund education you can create enormous changes to the individual and to the community.” Aries Gamboa, Manager for OFW Program, agrees and sees, “60 ambassadors of goodwill of Western Union.” Annual honors. Western Union, a leader in global payment services, awarded Ten Outstanding Maritime Students (TOMS) for 2016, a project undertaken yearly since 2010 during celebrations of National Seafarer’s Day. “Western Union has always believed that Filipino seafarers are some of the best in the world. They’ve made a huge contribution to this country and thus, we honor these outstanding students and future seafarers, ” adds Navarro. 2016 Ten Outstanding Maritime

MARINO WORLD

Students (TOMS) are Mark Kelvin C. Abarado and Andre’ Chad C. Acosta, both Maritime Academy of Asia and Pacific-Kamaya Point (West Campus);

Manasseh M. Disto, University of Cebu-Lapulapu and Mandaue; Juelle Jade B. Espiritu, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific- Kamaya Point CGSO Campus; John Marwin D. Palma, Technological Institute of the Philippines-Manila; John Carl T. Tagulalap, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime UniversityArevalo and the only cadette, Sabrina McCoy Villaruz, Colegio De La Purisima Concepcion. Twenty schools send in two of their best students to compete on the theme, ‘Filipino Seafarers: Excellence moves communities for better. ’ On top of academic proficiency, Western Union inculcates a commitment from the youth to improve the lives of others.

The winners underwent grilling interviews, written exams and essaywriting. Each received a trophy and Western Union Navarro PhP15,000, awarded at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City in conjunction Prince Noel C. Cainap, John B. with the 21st National Seafarer’s Day. Lacson Colleges Foundation-Bacolod; Jan Carlo A. Carpio, Southwestern “More than the prize money and trophy, University Maritime Regiment; Prince TOMS winners embody the qualities of Nani A. Co, John B. Lacson Foundation future exemplary seafarers --- an honor Maritime University-Molo; that is truly priceless,” ends Navarro.

MARINO WORLD

Shipmanagement

MTM Managing Director Rangroo

NWMM Pres Librodo

EXCELLENCE FOR NEW WAVE The Next Wave Maritime Management (NWMM) transfers to new offices, triple the size of their previous and so close to clients like seafarers --- September 19th, at the fifth floor of EMI Center building, Pres. Quirino avenue, by Leveriza street, Malate district, Manila. Company executives, staff and guests from government celebrated on a Filipiniana theme, fiesta songs and music. It was a bullish affair, projecting stability, preparing for the jobs, many more jobs, to offer to seafarers.

This asset is fully realized by Vijay Rangroo, Managing Director, M.T.M. Ship Management: “He sailed with the vessels and knows MTM policies, procedures, culture. So he’s the right choice for leading the company.” Excellence. Rangroo looks for “… people who are thinking same like me, they don’t need to be excellent when they join. We will make them excellent, but they must think in the same line.

Capt. Jose Remo Librodo, NWMM President, notes, “(T)here are a lot of people coming here and we’re getting closer … (to) seafarers at Kalaw. So for the seafarers we will always welcome them… make them excellent in this chosen field.”

If he is willing to give his attitude, energy...the rest we will help him, training, mentoring, giving him good ships.

NWMM supplies about 430 Filipino seafarers, aiming at 500 at year-end. It takes the mission seriously, that of attaining excellence in shipmanagement and in crewing.

(The) question we are addressing is how our seafarers can be excellent, what can they do to us so that …we can give a job but their job is not permanent, if the person are not good, the company will not survive…

Librodo has been sailing with the company before his appointment as President.

MARINO WORLD

To be ordinary is very easy. To be excellent you need to work hard…

(Our) job in training is to identify the things that can make our seafarers so excellent that we in turn together can give successful business to the vessel.”

The company holds at least two crew conferences in a year. This October, Capt. Rangroo will conduct in Singapore a two-day conference for excellence in all aspects of shipmanagement. Long-term. MTM Ship Management (MTMSM) was founded 1988 in Singapore to manage six chemical tankers owned and/or bareboat chartered by the MTM Group. MTMSM now has a fleet of 45 vessels for owners based in Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, USA and United Kingdom. New Wave registered with SEC 11 June 2014; licensed by POEA, No. 010-SB111314-PL-MLC issued 27 Nov. 2014. Librodo projects, “Within Manila standard our wages is already in the upper measurement.” It can also claim job stability since it owns 40+ vessels and manages another 34. Medical insurance is being seriously planned, also a MoA with five maritime schools by the second quarter of next year. And buying more vessels, bulk and chemical tankers. Small wonder NWMM is up and appropriate, rising above waters on a mission of excellence.

MARINO WORLD