January 2012 Edition by Marino World

VOLUME VII • No. 1 • ISSN 1908-0972

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JANUARY 2012 ISSUE

SEAFARERS WIN MOFYA Typhoon Sendong: what now? Filipinos protecting Filipinos MPCF vow to Bicolanos Trouble brewing at Hormuz

JANUARY 2012

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State-of-the-art

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The New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NSCPI) brings Basic Safety Training Courses in Sariaya, a well-known tourist destination in the province of Quezon, Philippines. The first-class town is famous for beaches, resorts, heritage houses, and hiking areas. Story on page 24

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CONTENT

Cover Story 4

Seafarers win MOFYA

Marino World Special 8

Typhoon Sendong: what now?

Shipping 14 Trouble brewing at Hormuz

ABOUT THE COVER

Marino World Exclusive 16 Filipinos protecting Filipinos

Education and Training

Seafarers who deserve OWWA’s MOFYA, a most prestigious award inspiring our OFW families to remain stable despite challenges. Walden SP Villapando photo

18 MPCF vow to Bicolanos 20 NEWSIM Ark at Quezon

Government 32 Defensive ships, diplomatic offensive

Ports 33 Ports are priorities

Shipbuilding 34 A Story of Success: CMI Shipyard

Columns 28 Capt Rodolfo Aspillaga’s MMAP Corner 30 Atty Dennis Gorecho’s Maritime Law 37 Mrs Minda Gomez’s SWAPI Corner

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publisher’s note

Year 2012, Ahoy! M

arino World is poised to lift anchor towards the blue waters of Year 2012.

Though, with a tweet of sadness on the events of the old year. Being frail and single, we were victimized by vicious rumor-mongering. Only to know they covet Marino World, from our womb and nursed all these past six years. Well, so much for unfair competitions. Besides, we just end up with flea should we grapple with azkals. We grant them our good intentions and prayers for ethical values. And we lift anchor now with a greater load: regular monthly issues instead of every two months. With a deeper editorial bench that searches and sifts, validates and critiques news, events and prospects. We veer away from the usual cut-and-paste publications peddled as journalism. We rewrite feeds from both advertorials and wire services for clarity and implications. We discern public data from private interests; we give the lie of the ground, not impose our perspective on our readers. On the larger picture, Marino World is now part of PR Newswire, a global press release distributor and media monitoring headquartered in New York with 26 offices in Continental USA. It operates worldwide with branches in Europe, Latin America, the Nordics (Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Iceland), Beijing and Taipei. PR Newswire is also in India and Israel, the Netherlands – and now in Manila with Marino World as correspondent. We are working on our Agreement of

Magazine Cooperation with Jiangsu United Asia International as organizer (with Ahoy Rotterdam) of 2012 CIMPS- Europort which is a marine, port and shipbuilding fair in China on May 2012. This brings in new opportunities for Philippine maritime stakeholders. As soon as our calendar eases, we may accept coverage of shipbuilding in Bangladesh and a side trip to a maritime school in Dhaka offering British certification at a much lower costs. Perhaps we could pick a line or two for our local maritime schools. All these are lined-up in our search for the newsworthy. We may go abroad courtesy of clients and agencies but we still prioritize local initiative. Proof is our field trip to a training provider in Quezon with Capt. Burt Sabay of the New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NEWSIM). And then the Familia De Guzman shipyard in Tanza, Navotas City, a stone’s throw and in friendly competitions with the much larger Tiangco yard. Both on guts and gumption competing globally. Yet beaming with filial love and family pride. Bottom line, Marino World continues to evolve, determined to grow for domestic intent and a worldwide view for the Philippines. Somehow, Marino World is not just publishing. It is fueling dreams of families and empowering Filipino seafarers to excel in the merchant marine industry. For a better MARINO WORLD, ahead! LYN BACANI Publisher

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Editorial Board LYN BACANI Publisher B. CORTES LAGAC Editorial Consultant GEN DY News Editor WALDENGRAFIX Layout & Design

Columnists Comm TESS LORA Ms MARISSA OCA Ms MERLE SAN PEDRO Ms MINDA GOMEZ RAdm ADONIS DONATO Capt RODOLFO ASPILLAGA Capt EDWIN ITABLE Capt Ireneo Delos Santos Capt JONES TULOD Dr CONRADO OCA Atty DENNIS GORECHO

News and Feature Writers COCA H. STROBAR LIGAYA CABAN EVA TAN Correspondents ROSVIE CORCUERA CHARITO ABAS NHAL CABANBAN JANE CABANBAN DAVID TAN

Marketing Assistants CHAI CUBILLA JOMELYN TUD JOAMIRICA TUD VANESSA CABANBAN

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Editorial Office Unit 7G The Manila Residences Taft Ave., Malate, Manila Telefax : 254-7408 Tel. : 975-7578 Hotline : 0917-5964526 www.marinoworld.info Find us

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Now monthly The message to act is loud and clear!

2012 DRAGON YEAR and water fuels the reign Act you must, being water-borne. Celestial signs favor the Maritime Industry --- your core business. And Marino World is at your command, to ply you smooth. Faster to your corporate targets. We are now monthly for your messages. More steady and more clearly. For MW is a most respected maritime magazine. Our streamlined editorial team picks the right events and issues. MW analyzes trends and implications keeping in mind a synergy with your business â&#x20AC;&#x201C;measured moves, studied opinions. Never copy-cut-paste journalism fed by spurts of electronic media. You and Marino World are winners. Let us be partners to continue the lead. Advertize your core competence. Advertize your corporate strength. For priority for page space, please contact

(632) 254-7408; 975-7578 marinoworldpublication@gmail.com www.marinoworld.info Find us

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cover story

Caminero Family with officials and sponsors.

Very prestigious OWWA award

Seafarer families win MOFYA By Eva Tan Three seafarers out of four awardees won the very prestigious Most Outstanding OFW Family of the Year (MOFYA) bestowed by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The highly-formal and dressed-up MOFYA 2011 awarding ceremonies were held last December 7th at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, a five-star hotel also an icon in Pasay City. A day earlier on December 6th at the Heritage Hotel, 34 land-based and sea-based finalists were recognized for exemplary achievements in their profession or vocation overseas. The finalists were evaluated from nominees selected from all over the country. Now on its seventh year, MOFYA is an annual award honoring exemplary achievements and best practices of OFW families in tackling the challenges of migration.

The Seabased Awardees. 8

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Chief Engineer Candido Caminero and Family of Argao, Cebu (Region VII) is the National Awardee for the sea-based category. Captain Celso Banag and Family, of Ramos, Tarlac (Region III) took home the Special Award for Outstanding Achievement in Community Projects Captain Manolo Gacutan and Family of Bautista, Pangasinan (Region 1) was awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship. C/E Caminero has been a seafarer for 40 years and blessed with nine children with wife, Elizabeth. The family never fails to address concerns of their community, even initiating various outreach programs. For one, Candido is a technical adviser for the “National Irrigators Association.” The Camineros have inculcated high ethical in their children, specially the virtue of hardwork. The couple have shown good example in the way they have managed resources like investments in a corn mill, poultry farm, sand and

gravel, hog-raising, and agricultural lots. Capt. Banag has been a seafarer for 21 years. Together with his wife, they reared daughter Desiree (now an accountant and son Dennis (now a commercial pilot). Banag shouldered all the expenses of a two-kilometer farm-to-market road at Barangay Coral, in his town. This enabled produce of the farmers to reach the market on time and on better prices. Capt. Banag is a “clean-andgreen” advocate, planting three million ipil-ipil seedlings, at least. The Banag family retains simplicity despite being successful in business. They have ventures in manning agency, metal fabrication, farmlands, fitness gym, technical school, construction supply and a water refilling station. Capt. Gacutan has served 16 years onboard international commercial vessels. As a career shift, he went ashore to be a shipping executive. With his drive and competence, he eventually morphed into owning his Döhle-Philman Manning Agency in 1990. Success encouraged

him into a second venture, MaeAnn Tailor Shop, which supplies seamen uniform. Year 2004 saw the opening of MaeKrisAnne Commercial Center in Pangasinan where their bakeshop, poultry supply, agricultural supply and water refilling station are located. They also own MaeKrisAnne Garden Resort in Bautista town where Mrs. Gacutan serves as a Barangay Chairman. On top, they have substantial real estate investments in six provinces.

Lone Landbased Awardee. Dr. Carlito Astillero of Region VII is the National Awardee for Landbase category. He and Elena are parents to five children in 45 years, and going. He has kept open his time and dialogue with his family even when aboard. For 35 years, he has been a steady shoulder to his fellow OFWs, arguably a father figure always ready with a helping hand. After reaping various civic awards, Dr. Astillero finally managed sufficient savings to secure their economic future. They were able to build two houses, organize a trading center and currently manage their agricultural holdings.

Gacutan with loved ones

The Caminero and Astillero families received P600,000 cash prize each from MOFYA while the Banag and Gacutan families received P100,000 each.

Government gratitude. DOLE U/Sec Secretary Danilo Cruz delivered the keynote address of President Benigno Aquino III which underscores the US$14.76 billion remittances from OFWs from January to September 2011 as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Speaking in the national language, the President says “… Malaking tulong po ito sa pamahalaan: magagamit natin ang mga pondong ito para sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa at proyekto na ikabubuti ng taumbayan.” (This is a big help to the Administration: we can use the fund to execute programs and projects for the good of the citizens). The President adds, “Para mas lalong maitaas ang antas ng pagbibigay-serbisyo sa OFWs, dinadamihan po natin ang mga Filipino Workers Resource Centers (FWRCs) sa ibang mga bansa at ang mga staff nito. Wala man sa sariling bansa ay gusto kong ipadama sa inyo ang kalinga ng inyong gobyerno. (To increase the level of service to the OFWs, we have increased the Filipino Workers Resource Centers (FWRC) in other countries and with more staff. Even if we are not in our own land, I wish to project to you the care of your Government).

Banag and Family

The President also mentioned the government’s reintegration programs and services including the PhP2-billion business loan package with low interest in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines. Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada and OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon also graced the occasion. There are about eight million overseas Filipino workers around the world.

Astillero and Family JANUARY 2012

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Capt. Manolo T. Gacutan

MOFYA Star By Lyn Bacani “Providing jobs is tantamount to serving our fellowmen and the country,” believes Captain Manolo T. Gacutan, MOFYA 2011 awardee for Outstanding Achievement for Entrepreneurship. The merchant marine captain is a product of the public schools, serving 16 years onboard international commercial vessels. More, he attained the highest position in his profession (captain of a ship) at the early age of 29. After serving as Operations Manager and Port Captain in the United Kingdom, he begun establishing his own manning agency, Philman Marine Agency, Inc. later renamed Döhle Philman Manning Agency, Inc. in gratitude to the Döhle Group as ship-owners and long-time business partners. He was barely 34 years, then.

Outstanding Agency. Döhle Philman started in 1993 and now provides thousands of jobs to Filipinos making it a consistent awardee as Outstanding Employer and Top Performer in the rankings of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Just recently, Döhle-Philman gave out loyalty awards to more than 40 seafarers who have continuously served the Döhle principals for 20 years, a reflection of seafarers satisfaction to management. But more surprisingly, POEA itself pointed out to Capt. Gacutan that “… dito pala e tatlong generations, may sinasakay kami - grand father, father, grandson,” (we have hired onboard three generations – grandfather, father, grandson).

Center and operations. Döhle Haus is a new 10-storey building in Makati housing its administration offices. It also has a dormitory providing

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Capt. Gacutan accepts greetings from the Senate Pro Tempore, Sen Jinggoy Estrada.

free board and lodging to its seafarers who are about to join, disembark or processing requirements. Gacutan has served the ships owned by the Döhle Group for four years and the company for more than 18 years now. After serving the father, he now works with the son, apparently a replay of the loyalty of his seamen to Gacutan’s agency. And this loyalty and satisfactory performance Capt Gacutan always inculcates to his staff and hires. “Wag ninyong isiping kayo ay sumasakay lang dito, treat the company as yours, para magkaroon kayo ng pagmamalasakit. Our seafarers are our bread and butter. It’s a give and take relationship. Hanggang kaya nyo, isasakay namin kayo sa barko. Ako mismo, I am not businessman, not lawyer, I am from the profession, umakyat lang, I can relate kung ano

ang nararanasan ng seaman,” explains Gacutan. (Never think that you are just onboard, treat the company as yours, so that you will have concern. Our seafarers are our bread and butter. It’s a give-andtake relationship. For as long as you can, we will place you on board. I am not a businessman, not a lawyer, I am from the profession who only achieved. I can relate to whatever are the experiences of the seaman). With branch in Iloilo, Döhle Philman supplies at least 80% of the crew to its principals, all under the Döhle Group.

Out to the Barangay. While from a family of politicians, Capt Gacutan has waived off from electoral and partisan politics. He prefers to serve by providing jobs which already help the town and the country.

Gacutan Family honored during the regional awarding ceremonies at Heritage Hotel, Pasay City.

“Ang point ko palagi even wala sa politics, will do the same, especially local official, maso solve mo lahat ng social problems like poverty, crime, pag binigyan mo ng employment ang tao. If you look at progressive and advance countries like Europe, very low ang crime rate nila, because everybody is employed. Day time wala kang makikitang istambay…makikita mo lang pag uwian between 6 to 7pm crowded lahat ng harap ng bahay. 9pm tahimik na dahil pagod na. If we can start it in barangay, aakyat yan. Kung ganuon lahat ang gagawin, sa town maso-solve mo… pag lahat ng town ganun din…connected na yan, then national na,” theorizes the captain. (Loosely translated, jobs will solve social problems. In progressive countries, crime rate is very low because people have jobs. When they go home from work, they are too tired already. We can start in our villages, then towns and then the nation already.) However, wife Rosemarie is on her second term as Barangay Chairman of Barangay Ketegan, a consistent Model Barangay in the whole of Pangasinan province. Rosemarie is a nurse by profession and plans for the investments of the family. Gacutan spearheads multipurpose cooperatives in their village, particularly boneless bangus production and other cottage industries. He provides start-

up capital or seed money instead of frustrating the venturers when funding is not available. He has provided livelihood opportunities to hundreds in their community. In 1990, the Gacutan family started MaeAnn Tailor Shop supplying seamen uniform. It expanded in 2004 with the opening of “MaeKrisAnne Commercial Center” in Pangasinan. Herein operates, too, their bakeshop, poultry and agricultural supply and water refilling station. They own the “MaeKrisAnne Garden Resort”, substantial real estate investments in six provinces and rentals of agricultural equipment like tractors, backhoe and threshers. The family regularly conducts outreach programs and dental missions and donate school equipment and furniture in Ketegan Elementary School. They have generously contributed for the building of chapel, daycare center, nursery, senior citizen’s office, streetlights and temporary shelter for homeless families. Poor but deserving students who dream to be seafarers are assisted by the Gacutan Foundation with scholarship grants annually.

Good provider. Gacutan provides well for his family,

giving the best education to his children to be better prepared for the future. Sherrie Mae, the eldest, is a Nursing graduate from Far Eastern University and now a senior staff nurse in Medical City in Pasig. Second child Debbie Anne holds a BSBA, major in Entrepreneurship and a masters candidate at the International Business Hult University in Shanghai, China. Kristopher, the youngest, is a graduating student at the De La Salle University, Manila for a degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. The kid is a consistent Dean’s Lister. Being the eldest child of parents in government, Manolo helped his parents in providing education to his sister who is now a doctor. His two brothers finished law and engineering, respectively, but took on to seafaring as a profession. Volunteer. Capt. Gacutan also shares his expertise voluntarily. He is presently a technical consultant of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Maritime Training Council (MTC). He also pays back to his Alma Mater serving as a director of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association (PMMAAAI). JANUARY 2012

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A Marino World Special

On Typhoon Sendong (Washi)

After the crying and the dying

WHAT NOW, MY LOVE? By Ligaya Caban

eafarers ride the waves for a living; snuggles a life adjusting to the moods of weather and the lash of waters. But it seems ironic that loved ones left ashore are dislocated or lost in the same element seafarers conquer: water --- floodwaters in the case of typhoon Sendong (Washi, international code).

as entire families were swept away. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRM) and other authorities place the death toll at 1,210 and counting. The President and the Administration are criticized again for shortcomings in policy, action and response. This morphs into the usual finger-pointing, factfinding and “pogi points” grandstanding.

Government functionaries were inand-out barking orders, releasing funds and promises. But away from kleig lights are soldiers, coast guards and local volunteers who braved the odds, dived the mud, logs and debris. Bagged bloated, decaying bodies by the hundreds. Unindentified and unclaimed, mostly. A pivotal move was when Army engineers of National Development Support Command (NADESCOM) and the Fourth Infantry Division installed water purifying machines borrowed from the US Marine Corps Forces Pacific Experimentation Center. Aspen models that run on battery for three hours process water at 2,000 liters per hour at Barangays Macapandig and Patag in Cagayan de Oro and at Barangay Hinaplanon in Iligan. Similar processes were also installed by commercial outfits and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Asia-Pacific neighbors pitched in early: Singapore, S$77,800; Indonesia, $10,000 with search, rescue and medical teams; Malaysia, $100,000; China, $1.10 million; Taipei (Taiwan), $150,000; Korea, $500,000 and Australia, A$lmillion. Other countries send in commitments and readiness when asked.

Over weeks after the December 16th build-up of the tropical storm, bodies of victims still litter the seas off the south. Eight Navy and Coast Guard ships still find corpses floating among debris up to 100 kilometers offshore. Red Cross chief Gwendolyn Pang says at least 900 bodies have been recovered and some 400 are reported missing. She admits exact number cannot be tallied

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Heart and hand. But public response was a shining reflection of the Christmas spirit: overwhelming and universal. The three major television stations were on full mobilization, in-situ and in colors. Their major talents were broadcasting live, their showbiz stars raising and distributing relief goods and funds. Perhaps motivated by the rating game but who cares for now?

The United Nations issued a flash appeal for $28.6 million, an “emergency revision” of the Philippine (Mindanao) Humanitarian Action Plan 2012, says the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. It should fund for three months potable water, food, emergency shelter and household items for 471,000 affected families in Northern Mindanao. From this, UNICEF expects $5.8 million to minister to some 300,000 children whose health, nutrition and education are at risk. UNICEF Ambassador Singer

Gary “Pure Energy” Valenciano called for public donation of $4.8 million as they have raised only a million yet. (The UN previously issued a flash appeal for Metro Manila and environ devastated in 2009 by tropical storm Ketsana or Ondoy locally.) UN Resident Humanitarian Coordinator Soe Nyunt-U visited Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities and observes, “… entire areas were completely flattened; only a few sturdy buildings remain standing… (but) sustained a lot of damage.”

settlement impeding the natural flow of drainage of the flood plain. This is a viewpoint from Ms. Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, executive director of Manila Observatory.

related to climate change in spite of RA10121.

The Dept of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) distributed geohazard maps to 1,600 cities and towns

Because the Philippines ranks 3rd in the list of countries most vulnerable to climate change. This is from the

Geography and geology. And why the alarm bells?

World Bank. For the first time in East Asia and the Pacific, the World Bank approved a Philippine request for $500 million (PhP22.6 billion) loan from its Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery on acceptance of 1,260 dead and 720,900 persons displaced. Acting Country Director Chiyo Kanda says it is for reconstruction, restoration and preparedness. In effect, it is in support of the country’s RA 10121 and its Strategic National Action Plan for Disaster Risk Reduction. After his December visit in the devastated cities, President Aquino declared a national calamity and accessed the WB’s Disaster Risk Management Development Policy loan withy Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat-DDO). This is an immediate source of funding, highly concessional at one percent a year payable in 25 years with 10 years grace period. Fund drives are every inch appealing. Expected eight million devotees of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo are expected to attend the January 9th feastday and give the second collection to the victims; Azcals, phenomenal rising sports team, are dueling here against a Madrid football crew with proceeds for the flood victims.

Roots and causes. What exacerbated the wrath of nature? Plenty, and plenty more. First on the Google Earth geo-hazard map is that we are building in harm’s way, improperly using land with human

Unidentified and unclaimed, mostly. (PCG photo)

and some 4,000 barangays (villages) last year. DENR Secretary Ramon Paje implored local officials to read and heed hazards identified by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) to save lives and properties. In fact, officials may be disqualified from office if they allow communities to live in hazardous areas and fail to respond to floods and landslides. This is “dereliction of duties” under Section 19 of the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act (RA 10121), reminds Ms. Lucille Sering who chairs the Climate Change Commission. RA 10121 also mandates five percent of local government revenue be earmarked for a disaster risk and management team and a calamity fund. Gritting at the legislature is Senator Loren Legarda who chairs the Senate Committee on Climate Change. She takes to task Malacanang’s lack of a “war room” to address issues and events

United Nation University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security and the German Alliance Development Works. The top ten highest risks are Vanuatu, Tonga, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Guatemala, Bangladesh, Timor-Leste, Costa Rica, Cambodia and El Salvador. The risk index used are exposure to natural disasters like storms, floods, earthquakes, droughts and sea-level rise. It also estimated susceptibility to damage based on economy and infrastructure, ability to respond and preparedness, early warning systems and ability to adapt to climate change. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has reported in 2010 that from 1960 to 2003, hot days and warm nights are more frequent in many areas in the country. Pagasa further observes this is JANUARY 2012

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A Marino World Special

On Typhoon Sendong (Washi) the trend in Southeast Asia and predicts more rain in the coming decades for the Philippines.

1997 but was replaced a year earlier, 25 March 1976, with an Integrated Forest Management Agreement (IFMA) for 6,795 hectares by then Gov. Lininding Pangandaman valid until 24 March 2021.

Mr. Radne Galicha believes climate change is the biggest crisis the world has ever faced. He is country district manager of The Climate Reality Project (TCRP) backed by former US VicePresident Al Gore.

Last 29 January 2009, VicMar was exempt from the logging ban by Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan (now a major suspect in the infamous Maguindanao massacre of about 57electoral partisans and journalists).

However, Galicha stresses that climate change is not the only culprit. TCRP expert Miguel Magalang adds the

VicMar logs are stockpiled at its pond at the Kapal-Bayug River and drifted along the 50-kilometer Mandulog River. Farther downstream are Barangays Santiago, Upper Hinaploan and Hinaploan where VicMar sawmills process the harvest.

From page 9

Tectonic worst-case scenario.

multiplier effect of massive land conversion, long-term deforestation, mining in forest and island ecosystems and lack of solid waste management.

Pragmatics. Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman ordered an investigation which confirms illegal logging via small-scale carabao logging and massive commercial logging are major factors of the disasters. VicMar Development Corp was issued a Timber License Agreement (TLA) 25 November 1975 for 18,730 hectares in the forests of Kapal and Tagoloan II, Lanao del Sur. The TLA expired 30 June

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Sendong dumped 350 millimeters of rain in Northwestern Mindanao on the night of December 16th to dawn of the 17th. While less than the 455 millimeters of “Ondoy” in Metro Manila in 2009, it is just as severe on evaluation of Professor Alfredo Mahar Lagmay of the National Institute of Geological Science at the University of the Philippines. Extreme rainfall caused flood of strong velocity coming from higher mountain altitude. It was aggravated by logs and logging debris, rocks and sediments similar to lahar build-up of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. It seems worst than the 2006 tragedy at Ginsaugon, Southern Leyte. In some parts, this flood wiped out everything from 300 meters up to a kilometer from the river bank. Damage stretched to over 35 kilometers along the river path. Entire communities were swept away; even Orchid Homes stone-and-concrete subdivision in Santiago was flattened.

Alarming geology. The Philippines is an archipelago nestled

in beauty and biodiversity --- yet, on worst geologic base ever. Already in the Pacific ring of fire (volcanoes), it is right smack in the typhoon belt of the Pacific and exposedto an average of 20 typhoons annually. It is less reassuring the eminent Dr. Raymundo S. Punongbayan wrote we are “… a heavenly land with a hellish geology.” That if nature were to design a worst-case geologic scenario, the Philippines would come close. For the islands are sandwiched between two major tectonic plates, the Pacific and the Eurasia. The former moves northwestward eight centimeter a year; the latter plunges to the earth’s interior three centimeters annually. Thus, our islands are squeezed and only kept together by faultlines similar to cracks “holding” a glass pane from collapsing.

Losses compared. In terms of property damage, the worst was Frank (Fengshen) destroying PhP13.32-billion in June 18 to 23, 2008 areas in Marinduque, Calabarzon, Metro Manila and Central Luzon. Next was Rosing (Angela) damaging PhP10.83billion in October 30 to November 4, 1995 areas in Bicol region, Calabarzon and Metro Manila. In terms of lives lost, worst was Uring (Thelma) claiming 5,101 (upwards to 8,000) in November 2 to 7, 1991 in Leyte and Negros. Next was Nitang (Ike) claiming 1,363 (upwards to 3,000) in August 31 to September 4, 1984 in Surigao, Bohol, Cebu and Negros. Sendong (Washi) may claim more than Nitang as the count is already 1,210 but recovery efforts are still active. Property damage and lives lost appear inversely proportional; less damage but more deaths and vice-versa. When typhoon landfalls are analyzed, expect more deaths in less developed thus vulnerable areas. Property damage are high in progressive areas but less lives are lost with better safety and rescue options.

Getting about. Among other things, President Aquino released PhP1.6 billion to the Department

of Science and Technology (DOST) for DREAM (Disaster Risk Exposure Assessment and Mitigation program) which should improve accuracy of weather and disaster information gathering and reporting. DOST Secretary Mario Montejo adds they will also use LIDAR (light intensity detection and ranging) and airborne radar interferometry system for the flood maps. A quick fix is to order telecommunication firms (telcos, i.e. Smart, Globe and others) to relay weather bulletins from Pagasa via short message system (SMS or “text”). Right now, the public is guided by the broadcast media but on media’s programming interest. When disaster strikes at wee or odd hours, uninformed people are prey to higher mortality and bigger damage. The “text” system works in South Korea and can be easily replicated here given that almost all Filipinos have a celfone (mobile cellular telephone).

An off-side. The political ecology of migration and climate change has been deptly analyzed by Michael Manansala of Pampango roots and a Political Science major in Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. He says while we graduate thousands of nurses, engineers and allied skills we cannot organize the labor infrastructure

for disaster response. Mostly are abroad and earning and their remittances buoy family finances and the national economy --- a vicious cycle of educating Filipinos for emigration.

Policies and failures are clear and documented. Geologic and environmental research are available backed by studies and opinions on climate changes and human degradation of nature.

Manansala writes we have “… witnessed over decades systemic corruption results in overfunded proposals yet underfunded projects. In effect, our structural, health and environmental problems linger” as we fail to prevent disabilities, diseases and deaths during natural crises.

Marino World believes with social commentators that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are the next wave of reformers, a historical repeat of the Indios Bravos (Filipino expats in Spain including Rizal) who fueled meaningful reforms in the island colony then.

Seafarers to task.

Returning OFWs on the average are financially independent, exposed to other cultures and better governance. They can be catalysts and free agents of change: voicing out, demanding, and nitpicking when necessary.

Comes now the rehabilitation, rising as the Phoenix would. Should Seafarers just go with the flow of physical reconstruction, government band-aids, NGO goodie-goods and international charity until the next typhoon? And the next?

Seafarers are more pivotal in that they return home more often, many in leadership and command and are more advantaged financially. They can pump in more efforts and demand more often than their landbased counterpart. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) recently hosted the MOFYA, a glittering affair recognizing outstanding OFWs in community works. Of the four major awardees, three are Seafarers who have spelled difference in their communities. This is light in the tunnel of apathy in civic life. And heralds an emerging breed of leadership committed to the common good, the sonum bonum.

Must engage in nation-building.

For Seafarers heeding the call, the first step is now. The giant step is NOW! JANUARY 2012

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SHIPPING

Unified front to tackle ships green gas emissions

he United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa (COP 17, Nov. 28 to Dec. 9, 2011), saw the global shipping industry, Oxfam and WWF joining forces for ways governments may regulate international shipping to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

shipping must be global in nature and designed so as to reduce the possibility of ‘carbon leakage’, while taking full account of the best interests of developing countries and the UNFCCC principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities’ (CBDR).

Oxfam, WWF and the International Chamber of Shipping (which represents over 80% of the world merchant fleet) call on delegates to COP 17 to give the International Maritime Organization (IMO) clear guidance on continuing its work on reducing shipping emissions through the development of Market Based Measures (MBMs).

This includes the possibility of the adoption by IMO of a compensation mechanism through which a significant share of any revenues collected from international shipping could be directed to developing countries and provide a new source of finance to support their efforts to tackle climate change. Such revenues could be directed through an appropriate channel, such as the Green Climate Fund, yet to be discussed by governments.

A UNIFIED FRONT. The three maintain that an effective regulatory framework for curbing emission of CO2 from international

PRACTICAL OVER TECHNICAL.

Comparison of CO2 emissions between different modes of transport Source: NTM, Sweden

Cargo vessel over 8,000 dwt

Cargo vessel 2,000-8,000 dwt

Heavy truck with trailer

21 50 Air freight 747-400 1,200 km flight

100

200

300 Grams per tonne-km

400

540 500

600

IMO agreement on technical regulations will reduce ships’ CO2 MARPOL Annex VI, Chapter 4 adopted July 2011

Regulations enter into force for over 90% of world fleet

EDDI requires new ships to meet agreed efficiency targets

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New ships must improve efficiency up to 20%

New ships must improve efficiency 30%

20% CO2 reduction per tonne/km (industry goal)

Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP): mandatory implementation for all ships

2013

New ships must improve efficiency 10%

2015

2020

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50% CO2 reduction per tonne/km (industry goal)

2025

2030

2050

While there are some differences over the detail of such an approach, both the civil society and shipping industry organisations emphasise that the immediate priority for governments meeting at COP 17 in Durban is not to work on technical details for shipping, but to provide the signals needed to allow resolution of the key political question of how to apply CBDR in the shipping sector, and assist the speedy completion of the IMO’s work. With respect to any carbon charges that might be proposed by governments, they agree that the recent IMO agreement on technical and

Peter Hinchliffe: Better interests of both.

operational measures to reduce shipping emissions demonstrates that the IMO is eminently capable of developing a further international agreement for shipping on MBMs. In light of the urgency required to avoid catastrophic climate change, they called on all governments to take all steps necessary to expedite such an agreement at the IMO.

WWF VIEWS. Samantha Smith, Leader of WWF’s Global Climate and Energy Initiative, says, “We are very pleased that the shipping industry acknowledges its responsibility to play its part in further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With around 3% of the world’s total emissions, full participation of the shipping sector will help greatly towards keeping global warming below the 2°C target agreed by governments. Putting a charge on carbon in the global shipping sector can have huge benefits in meeting our climate change objectives.”

OXFAM PERSPECTIVE. Tim Gore, Oxfam climate change policy advisor, comments, “We welcome the constructive engagement of the shipping industry in the search for solutions to the climate crisis. Industry and civil society

actors agree that shipping emissions can be regulated in a way which is fair to developing countries and could help generate the resources they need to tackle climate change.” “It’s vital that governments meeting this month at the UN climate talks in Durban give the signal needed to move such a deal forward in the International Maritime Organization”

THE SHIPPING INDUSTRY. ICS Secretary General, Peter Hinchliffe, adds, “The shipping industry welcomes the recognition by these important actors from the environment and development fields that it is in the best interests of both the environment and developing nations for shipping to be regulated via our industry regulator, the International Maritime Organization, with the same rules for carbon reduction applying to all internationally trading ships, but in a manner which respects the principles of the UN climate convention.” “If governments decide that shipping should contribute to the UNFCCC ‘Green Climate Fund’, the industry can probably support this in principle as long as the details are agreed at the IMO, with the industry’s clear preference for a Market Based Mechanism being a compensation fund linked to the fuel consumption of ships, rather than an emissions trading scheme.”

URGENCY AND FOCUS. Oxfam’s GROW campaign is calling for global action to fix a broken food system where 925 million people already go hungry every day. This could get worse in the face of dwindling natural resources, like land, the gathering pace of climate change and increasing food price volatility. WWF is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations, with over five million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the Earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world’s biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption. The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is the principal international trade association for shipowners, representing all sectors and trades and over 80% of the world’s merchant tonnage. Its membership comprises national shipowners’ associations from 36 countries.

Workshop scales up ocean climate observations

eading ocean companies have initiated a major new World Ocean Council (WOC) program to increase and better coordinate the collecting of ocean and atmospheric information from ships and offshore structures. Representatives from shipping, oil and gas, marine technology and other sectors met with scientists, government agencies, and inter-governmental organizations at the first WOC “Smart Ocean/Smart Industries” workshop, hosted by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) last 12 to 13 December in Paris, France.

continue to facilitate and organize ocean business community involvement in the initiative. The WOC Working Group will further engage the scientific, government and intergovernmental community to identify the appropriate organizations and representatives to involve in the initiative. IOC Executive Secretary, Wendy WatsonWright, declares, “The WOC Smart Ocean/Smart Industries workshop was an unprecedented gathering of industry, government and science. The WOC has created major interest and momentum for significantly scaling up ocean and climate observations by industry through

The unique gathering attracted more than double the number of participants anticipated and sparked immediate, concrete action. Within less than 24 hours of the workshop, several participant companies offered to deploy oceanographic sensors from their vessels in areas where more data is needed. The event was designed to develop a common understanding among ocean industries and the scientific community on voluntary observation programs, understand the key barriers to scaling up these efforts and develop the principles, roadmap and workplan for moving forward. The ultimate goal is a global program to facilitate, coordinate and ramp up the efficient, cost effective ocean and atmospheric information collection by a growing number and range of vessels and platforms. To foster and coordinate progress towards this goal, the workshop proposed creating a Smart Ocean/Smart Industries steering committee to bring together representatives of both the industry players interested in advancing observations from their ships and platforms as well as the key scientific, government and intergovernmental organizations engaged in observation efforts.

Workshop output.

At Maersk Line, Eskild Lund Sorensen, Environmental Manager states, “The inaugural Smart Oceans/Smart Industries workshop was a tremendous success. Maersk joined the WOC to establish a group for cross-sectoral collaboration between commercial and scientific organizations. The enthusiastic engagement from the high number participants drawn to this unique event confirms our decision that joining the WOC to help lead this effort was a great way for Maersk to further implement our commitment to ocean sustainability.” The WOC Smart Ocean/Smart Industries Working Group co-chaired by A.P. Moeller-Maersk and Transocean will

a coordinated international program. The IOC was pleased to host the initial workshop and looks forward to continuing to work closely with the WOC and its members, the scientific community and our UN agency colleagues to move this forward.” Leadership companies are encouraged to participate in the Smart Oceans/Smart Industries initiative. Ocean business efforts to expand ocean, weather and climate information will improve the modeling and predictability of weather, ocean conditions and climate change, and support the responsible use of ocean space and resources – all with clear benefits for business, science, government, and society. The workshop presentations, report and recommendations will be posted on the WOC website as soon as possible. Companies and other parties interested in the initiative should contact paul.holthus@ oceancouncil.org.

World Ocean Council (WOC).

The WOC is the only international, cross-sectoral alliance for private sector leadership and collaboration in “Corporate Ocean Responsibility”. Companies and associations worldwide are distinguishing themselves as leaders in ocean sustainability and stewardship by joining. Members to date include over 36 leadership organizations from a wide range of ocean industries: oil and gas, shipping, seafood, tourism, ocean technology, maritime law, marine environmental services and other areas. JANUARY 2012

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Strait of Hormuz

MAJ0R TROUBLE BREWING By Coca H. Strobar Marino World is watching with critical concern Iran Army Chief Ataollah Salehi warning they will attack should United States aircraft carrier returns to the Persian Gulf. Pentagon responded, albeit with calmness, it will keep sending carrier strike groups through the Gulf, regardless. U.S. and European Union placed tight financial sanctions against Iran suspected of developing offensive nuclear capability (atomic bomb, included) with its mammoth $662 billion defense budget. Iran reeled with the sanction as its rial plunged 40% against the dollar. Queues are at Tehran

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banks to protect their saving by scrambling to buy dollars. Currency exchange dealers closed shops to avoid virtual mobs. Iran held 10 days of Naval exercises in the Gulf, test-firing missiles that could hit US bases in the Middle East. It claims a US aircraft carrier moved away to the Sea of Oman due to such Iranian maneuvers at the Persian Gulf. But the US 5th Fleet says it moved on it’s own accord to the Arabian Sea via the Strait of Hormuz to provide air support in the war in Afghanistan. Iran threatens to block the Strait of Hormuz where a third of the world’s tanker-borne oil passes.

U.S responded curtly it will “not tolerate” any interruption in the area. The US position is hawkish as President Obama signed into law more sanctions that passed Congress with an easy majority. Oil prices kicked $4 more at the Brent crude futures and pushed to $111 per barrel in London. The stand-off directly impacts on the Philippines given its heavy reliance on imported oil, its stunted economy and major devastations from force majeure. It is also almost a certainty that Filipinos are in those oil tankers sinceFilipino seafarers are a third of the total of the world’s merchant mariners.

InterManager asks

CREW CARE OVER OTHER CONCERNS M

odern corporate social responsibility should include measures to care for crew as well as the environment, says InterManager Secretary General Captain Kuba Szymanski.

InterManager Annual General Meeting, Capt. Szymanski says, “People talk of ‘hugging trees’, I say let’s hug seafarers first!” Urging ship managers to embrace crew concerns when implementing a CSR programme, Capt. Szymanski asks, “Why do we care more about birds and

Discussing corporate social responsibility (CSR) at the 2011

“Educate, do not regulate” -- Capt. Kuba Szymanski

whales than we do about seafarers?” To illustrate the burden of increasing legislation, he stripped off an item of clothing for each official law that audience members’ could call out –-stopping after tearing off his jacket and tie to the relief of delegates attending InterManager’s AGM in Manila, Philippines recently. “Educate do not regulate,” Capt. Szymanski urges international organisations like the IMO and EU, vowing InterManager members will work to selfregulate to ensure mandatory regulation is minimised. He explains, “I am all in favour of protecting wildlife and the environment … but I want to make sure that it is achievable and manageable. I am a great believer in empowering ships’ crew and Masters to make sensible and correct operational decisions onboard without fear of unfair criminalisation.”

Walden SP Villapando photo

InterManager members, who already sign up to a Code of Conduct, are actively involved in discussions about industry-wide initiatives such as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and corporate social responsibility. Capt. Szymanski declares, “In my opinion CSR goes hand in hand with the KPI project.”

UK-flagged ships allowing armed guards to combat sea piracy UK-flagged ships will be licensed to carry armed guards to combat piracy, Prime Minister David Cameron, announces at the BBC television Andrew Marr Show. This is a reversal of policy by the British government. Britain had previously “strongly discouraged” the use of private armed security guards and ministers have been working to find a way to change the law to protect shipping from pirates off the Horn of Africa, Foreign Office Minister Henry Bellingham said in a speech on last October.

“We are now going to say to British flag ships that they will be licensed if they want to have security guards, armed guards, on those ships,” Cameron says. “The evidence is that ships with armed guards don’t get attacked, don’t get taken for hostage or for ransom and so we think this is a very important step forward.”

The Home Office has agreed to license the guards, Cameron said. Of 199 attacks by Somali pirates in the first nine months, 12 % resulted in hijacks, compared with a 28% success rate a year earlier, the London and Kuala Lumpurbased International Maritime Bureau said in an e-mailed report on Oct. 18. There were a record 352 incidents globally, it said.

JANUARY 2012

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Exclusive to Marino World

Filipinos protecting Filipinos From Steve Pickup of Valletta, Malta The single biggest non-natural danger facing the maritime industry in the Indian Ocean today is the possibility of being attacked by pirates. Not the glamorised Hollywood version. But former fishermen trying to provide for their families. And not any ordinary fisherman, either. They are those hardened by years of famine, civil war and having to live on UN hand-outs. They have exchanged their nets for AK 47s and RPGs. And since the Sirius Star incident, they have earned collectively over US$100-million. With no effective government in Somalia, their crimes go unpunished. There have been calls for the world’s Navies to do more. But in an area larger than Europe, ships required are greater than blue water navies can provide. Then there is the drawback: what to do with them (when captured)? Are pirates under the UN or the nationality of the ships country? Who is going to put them on trial. Who is going to imprison them if found guilty. Quoted from Marino World, Mr Spyros M Polemis states the escalating use of armed teams signify the failure of the international community. However, the use of private guards in banks and the business sector does not point the failure finger at the police. Mr Polemis, rightly states that the use of private guards does not mean the end of military interdiction, although a combination cannot be ruled out as a future option. None of this bodes well for the seafarer, plying across the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Arabia. The very thought of crossing strikes fear. Most crews would like having armed guards as additional protection. However, flag states and owners (who neither transit the dangerous waters), use BMP 3 as justification to save money, and

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Steve Pickup : Not security bog-down. David Tan photo

take the risk their ship would be safe. IMO’s recent BMP 4 only updates the passive steps a ship can take. While not endorsing the use of armed guards, IMO does lay guidelines on what to do if this option is used. This now poses the question of who do you hire? With the Philippines providing almost half of the world seafarers, the obvious answer would be a company that can combine the security offered by the western nations, with the ability to talk to your Filipino crewman, brief them in a language that enables them to best protect your vessel and also promises to provide Western training to Filipino ex marines and ex special forces. Admiral Ramon C Liwag PCG (Chairperson of Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combatting Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) admits (Marino World Vol VI Sept-Oct 2011) ship owners are increasingly using armed guards; now that MARINA has allowed (sic, recommended) armed guards onto Philippine flagged vessels, there are going to be instances where by Philippines’ flagged ships will require the services of armed protection. Who better to protect Philippine interests, than Filipinos? The Gulf of Aden Group Transits (GoAGT) is a British firm that trains its own operatives to be motivated and dedicated Ships Tactical Officers. They also guard and protect ships and crews. GoAGT utilises a multi cultural work force with Western trainers. To date, GoAGT has recruited and trained over 100 Filipinos. GoACT Business Development Officer Mr Steven Pickup says he is available for advice, information or visit. They also offer Anti-Piracy Awareness Training to merchant seafarers.

Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho and maritime leaders at the Asia Pacific Manning and Training Conference.

Business strategy aligns with crew development By Gen Dy

common belief to major investment in training to ensure maritime excellence.

Shipping magnate Doris Magsaysay-Ho urges ship owners and managers to create a new level of partnership with crew managers to address crew competencies and shortage problems.

Ms. Ho explains they transform crewing services to measurable human resource business processes, which are key strategies to attract, retain, ensure compliance, train, assess and develop people.

“Ship owners/managers must align people development and systems with their business strategy,” stresses Ms. Ho, President and CEO of the Magsaysay Group of Companies. Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Manning and Training Conference, Ms. Ho observes, “Critical shortages and complex competencies and skills mean, crewing managers need to provide more complex strategic human resource services.” The lady executive underscores people are intangible assets but must be on top of their mind. She explains in simpler days, they only recruit, deploy and administer seafarers. But now there must be human resource architecture that focuses on how to create value, and how to measure the value-creation process. In a long- term view, management must provide seafarers training and development, a business policy reflected by the Magsaysay Institute of Shipping (MIS). Leading international shipping and maritime companies invest in education to promote the seafaring career through MIS. MIS partners, Mitsui OSK Lines, Fairmont Shipping and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation. All want to ensure a pool of competent and disciplined officers and ratings. They share a

She says non-monetary elements also contribute to crew retention. Part of this is that crew and families need to be valued. “We cannot ignore the new generation perils at sea such as piracy and criminalization,” she observes while adding that if we want to attract the young generation into shipping, they must transform the partnership between owner/manager & crewing managers to cope up with the changing requirements of the industry. According to the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) 2010 study, world-wide supply of seafarers is estimated to be 624,000 officers and 747,000 ratings, reflecting increases in seafarer supply in some countries, notably China, India and the Philippines, as well as a few European nations. BIMCO says the supply and demand balance for now, with a modest undersupply of officers of two percent, particularly felt on specialist types of ships such as LNG tankers and offshore support vessels. BIMCO notes problems persist now as individual shipping companies experience recruiting problems and concern over availability of senior management level officers. The study also predicts the next decade assumes a modest increase in the number of ships in the world fleet of 2.3% per annum, while manning levels are assumed to decline. JANUARY 2012

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MPCF upholds vow

COMMITMENT TO A BETTER FUTURE VIA EXCELLENT EDUCATION

ith cheers of the holidays in the air, the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) affirms its status as Bicol’s premier maritime institution with the inauguration of more facilities at its Canaman, Camarines Sur campus.

Most guests were awed by the innovations and investments of PhP50-million, almost unanimous in judging the facilities as the showcase of progress in Bicol.

Last December 20th, the Engineering laboratory, executive offices building, 160-bedspace dormitory and 10 additional classrooms were formally blessed, a state-of-the-art integration with the JC Jimenez Multi-Purpose Complex.

MPCF executives and trustees, government officials, teaching faculty, staff and students witnessed the spiritual ceremonies after a Roman Catholic Holy Mass.

Renovation of the gymnasium is the next priority.

Guests were toured by Cadet-Scholars around the dormitory and classrooms. The scholars enjoy free tuition fees, board and lodging from collaboration of MPCF with partner-shipowners led by Maine Marine Philippines and DBP sponsored scholars for other shipping partners. MPCF Baras Campus President Commo. Dante Jimenez, PCGA, says the edifices are dedicated to the memory of his father and a brother, MPCF founding chairman and president, the late Commo. Jaime C. Jimenez and the late Engr. Jaime La. Jimenez, Jr., respectively. His father was a marine and mechanical engineer while Jaime Jr. was a naval architect and marine engineer. Both contributed greatly in providing quality engineering education to Bicolano youth.

Blessings with sisters Merle and Evita.

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Before the ceremonies, a party for less

Jimenez, the moving spirit.

fortunate children in the community was held led by Commo. Jimenez who recalled Jaime Jr.’s advocacy on children and workers welfare.

Renewed commitment. The continuous developments in MPCF prove the dedication of the Jimenez family in providing best education to the region’s youth. The advancement realized at the MPCF Canaman campus are replicated in the two other sites; namely, the MPCF in Legazpi City-Albay and Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges (MPC) in Naga City-CamSur. MPCF offers merchant marine courses while MPC includes

to the Bicolanos

landbased studies such as HRM, Tourism and Customs Administration Courses. All the schools are managed by inter-locking interests of the Jimenez bloodline, namely Trustees led by children Evita Jimenez, Dr. Marilissa Jimenez-Ampuan, Merlle Jimenez-San Pedro, Gabriel L. Jimenez and Commo. Dante La. Jimenez with wife Nimpa V. Jimenez and matriarch Mrs. Elisa La. Jimenez as Chairperson Emeritus.

Influx of enrollees.

Occasioned by the growing number of cadets and scholars, Commo. Jimenez formalized cooperation with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). TESDA may fit in well in the new MPCF facilities as the engineering and welding laboratories. These are geared towards under-privileged families by offering vocational courses to them.

Jimenez with other educators.

Commo. Jimenez said they are expecting an influx of enrollees in the vocational courses by 2016 with the implementation of the K-12 system of the Department of Education (DepEd). Kindergarten-12th Grade (or K-12) system adds two more years to the current 10-year basic education program. This is one of President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino IIIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposed education reforms, covering seven years of grade school and five years of high school. The new education model is expected to help high school graduates qualify for jobs without obtaining a college degree.

MPCF officers and guests. JANUARY 2012

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NEWSIM Ark at Quezon

The p

By Lyn Bacani

eafarers complain on the many training courses to stay active in the industry. But seafaring is a global profession; hence, academe and management must be in stride with international trends, maritime conventions and the mandatory codes therein. That is, if we want to retain our one-third hold on the global crew. And increase our share by being more competitive. We cannot grow by merely accepting less wages; we must do more and better than the aspiring nations. Hard and harsh? You bet. But that’s how the cookie crumbles: train and retrain, or you brood on the sidewalk as spent labor. Manning agencies, therefore, holds training and seminars for their crew, hosting these in luxury hotels and tourist resorts. Even joined in by their families to encourage participation. In effect, this is double-tasking as one learns while bonding with loved ones. Such is the rationale why New Simulator Center of the Philippines (NEWSIM) brings Basic Safety Training Courses in Sariaya, a well-known tourist destination in the province of Quezon, Philippines. The first-class town is famous for beaches, resorts, heritage houses, and hiking areas. The more recent is the inauguration of the NEWSIM Ark building last December 8th coinciding with NEWSIM’s 11th Founding anniversary. The day was also the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, auspicious the owners being devout Roman Catholics and active members of Couples for Christ, a church-mandated lay organization. The Ark is a building shaped like a ship (hence, the biblical Noah) and located in the heart of the Monte Vista Beach Resort in Bignay II, Sariaya, Quezon. The resort is ideal for family outings and gimmicks with your dabarkads (peer group). Monte Vista has great facilities for outings and reunions of companies, associations or schools.

For Competence.

NEWSIM Chief Executive Officer Capt. Reynold “Burt” Sabay affirms the mission to deliver quality training ‘for competence and not for requirement.’ “May She bring more blessings and fortune to whoever sets foot on this Ark. That’s why I would encourage everyone to set foot on this Ark especially those who serve the maritime industry with dignity and integrity. May She bless all seafarers who trained here with courage to be righteous and assertive. Always guide them into safe voyages across the seven seas,” implores Sabay during the formal ceremonies. Capt. Sabay is a graduate of the Philippine

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NewSim flag with the Philippines, proudly inviting others to our shore.

Walden SP Villapando photos

Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) in Zambales. With the 90’s, Sabay was already known as resource person for quality systems. In Year 2000 on the feastday of December 8th, he founded NEWSIM on 100% Filipino capitalization and management to specialize in quality simulator-based training and assessment of seafarers. Today, Capt Sabay is confident the NEWSIM Ark shall be an icon as the Ark of the New Generation - the alternative training site for the new and better breed of global seafarers.

The Courses.

The NEWSIM Ark offers Basic Safety Training, Advanced Training in Firefighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Burt and leadership. Boats and Proficiency in FastMarino RescueWorld Boats.for Washington Ms. Abas and staff evaluated approval.

pleasure of Training And right there is the imposing NEWSIM Ark. There is also a “tug boat,” actually a tank of spring water that feeds the Ark 24-7. In foresight before ground-breaking last April, mahogany trees were planted by NEWSIM officers and staff along the perimeter. This is to preserve and enhance the enchantment of nature in the area. In five years, the trees shall envelop the property in vibrant green. This ensures privacy and a healthier environment. The sewage system is not just a septic tank but an STP, with a treatment plant that processes used water into clean and potable resource. Phil Asia Group is the main contractor, the same team that built the Manila Ocean Park.

Breathtaking View.

The NEWSIM Ark brings the pleasure of training in the embrace of nature, along a coastal area watched by the mystic mountain of Banahaw favored by nature lovers and mountain climbers.

Special guests.

The inspiration, the family.

On the north is Mt. Banahaw, Tayabas Bay on the south. Lying west are Candelaria and San Juan (Batangas), while on the east are Tayabas town and Lucena City. Sariaya is known far and wide as the “town” of palatial houses. It is about 23,980 hectares, the greater part planted with coconuts. Coming from Manila, Sariaya is before the provincial capital city of Lucena.

Direct Staff. To complement these new courses, NEWSIM launched last December 2nd the NEWSIM Training Academy (NTA) in NEWSIM Building, 2323 Marconi Street corner Sen Gil J. Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia), Makati City. NTA shall be the infrastructure provider for NEWSIM in its offerings for Basic Safety Training courses and other training programs to address new requirements under STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. NTA maintains updated classroom facilities, training equipment, textbooks and teaching aids for the courses.

The Facilities.

The NEWSIM Ark at Sariaya looks like a real ship with real simulator. Many of its parts are from actual ships like the satellite dome and

the glasses of the deck. The pool for the Davit free-fall lifeboat is 30 x 40 meters wide and five meters deep. On the ground floor are the administration offices, conference room, library, clinic and restaurant. Classrooms are at the second floor, the dormitory for the trainees on the third while VIP rooms are on the top for privacy. All rooms are separately air-conditioned.

Parking areas are at the back, near the beach.

From the top, approaching the ramp to the ship building is a big rotonda and a big anchor weighing about seven tons. Guests must skirt it by circling the rotonda thus viewing the ship before the resort.

NEWSIM Ark is about 124 kilometers from Manila, averaging two hours land trip. From Makati to Sariaya is about three hours, via Lipa City cuts it to two hours. By early first quarter of 2012, travel time is expected to be shorter with the completion of an ecotourism express highway.

Potentials.

The NEWSIM Ark is just the initial stage of the master development of the 17-hectare property. Today, five hectares are for the training campus and the resort consolidates 12 hectares into nature space and tourist facilities. On board are plans for staff house, natural creek for boating, fish pond, hideaway nooks, zip line from the ship’s bridge to the beach, convention center, mini golf with driving range. To be organized are regular tripping for shipping executives and educational tours for maritime students.

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Philippines’ Marino World First at US Library of Congress By Eva Tan “Marino World is now the pioneer in Philippine maritime publication to enter the US Library of Congress,” confirms a United States Embassy official. Last December 22nd, Marino World publisher Ms. Lyn Bacani met with Ms. Julianita Abas, country representative of the Library of Congress, Southeast Asia of the Embassy of the United States of America to archive complete editions of Marino World since first publication in 2005. Ms. Abas says that after careful evaluation and selection at the Manila sub-office, Washington finally gave the approval for Marino World to be included in the more than 1,000 publications in the Philippines supplied in the US Library of Congress.

and Kuala Lumpur and collection arrangements with Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, and Vietnam. The office’s mission is to enrich the research collections of the Library of Congress and other research libraries with the wealth of bibliographic production from these countries. More than two million pieces of research materials have been acquired for the Library of Congress and participants in CAP-SEA. The Jakarta office staff acquires, catalogs, and preserves publications from this region. The office also provides reference and information assistance for the U.S. Congress (via the Library’s Congressional Research Service), occasionally for program participants, and also for colleagues in the American Embassy who support LC’s work.

e current issue and th ry of n e id a m ’s ibra rld Marino Wo archived at the U.S. L ll a s. w e o n ci n s e e g n a o nd selected Congress a

Moreover, Ms. Abas is confident that because of the Filipino seafarers presence in almost all vessels around the world, she can encourage subscription by their other partners in the Cooperative Acquisitions Program for Southeast Asia (CAP-SEA). These are universities and research institutions in Asia and parts of Europe and continental United States.

Acquisition program. The Manila sub-office which Abas heads spearheads the Library’s acquisitions program in the Philippines. It coordinates with vendors and other publishing organizations, but also seeks out valuable material through research and fieldwork. Staff further ensures that the exchange of publications between the United States and the Philippine governments is sustained. The US sub-office also has alliances and active cooperative arrangements with at least 100 non-governmental organizations with offices and affiliations in the fifteen regions in the Philippines. Today, the Jakarta office serves as the regional center for Southeast Asia and has sub-offices including Manila, Bangkok

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Ms. Abas and staff evaluated Marino World for Washington approval.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Capt. Gregorio S. Oca.

THE DREAM LIVES ON

The torch-bearers, Oca matriarch and siblings. Chai Cubilla photo

By Lyn Bacani

he believers kept their faith, honoring Capt Gregorio S. Oca with the unveiling of his monument at the MAAP campus at Kamaya Point, Barangay Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan. Maritime industry leaders and stakeholders also paid homage, laying floral offerings to an exemplary peer: inspiring but not dominating, visionary with feet on the ground. These are Capt. Oca’s traits which give life and fulfillment to his dreams on the advancement of seafarers through education and training. Maybe this is why the unveiling ceremony of November 28, 2011 takes a life of its own with the simultaneous launching of the Center for Advanced Maritime Studies (CAMS) at the MAAP campus (an institution Capt. Oca himself founded).

CAMS is a graduate program within the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP). This answers the growing demand in the industry for qualified and well-trained Marine office executives and Maritime educators. The aim is to raise the academic status of Filipino Merchant Marine Officers and prepare them to be effective Ship Superintendent or Professors. Two programs are on as approved by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED): Master of Science in Maritime Transportation (Marine Superintendent) and on Marine Engineering (Technical Superintendent). CAMS is a joint project of the AMOSUP under Dr. Conrado Oca together with The Seafarers’ Promotion Fund managed by All Japan Seamen’s Union (AJSU) under Capt. Yoji Fujisawa and the International Mariners Management Association of Japan (IMMAJ) under Mr. Tsutomu Ilzuka. JANUARY 2012

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Global shipping community

DR. SURESH NARAIN IDNANI

Outstanding Service to Seafarers’ Welfare W

inners of the 2011 International Seafarers’ Welfare Awards were announced at a high proﬁle ceremony at the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva. It was on the opening night of the Maritime Labour Convention tripartite meeting attended by practically who’s-who in the shipping industry Dr. Idnani of India led the winners, namely: • Judge’s Special Award for Outstanding Services to Seafarers’ Welfare: Dr Suresh Idnani, India • Port of the Year: The Port of Antwerp, Belgium • Seafarer Centre of the Year: Duckdalben International Seamen’s Club, Hamburg • Shipping Company of the Year: Wilhelmsen Ship Management, Norway & Malaysia • Welfare Personalities of the Year: Reverend Peter Ellis of Hong Kong and Mrs Paddy Percival of Durban Roger Harris, ICSW Executive Director comments, “… a real celebration of not just the winners but all those who are committed to the welfare of seafarers.” In accepting the honors, Dr. Idnani reminds, “… Much still needs to be done, especially, in the key areas of work stress, piracy, ship-visiting, counseling and maritime education. None of us should rest our laurels.”

The leaders. Keith Parsons, Group HR Director at V Ships, says, “ We recognise that many seafarers, support organisations and shipping companies go that ‘extra mile’ on a regular basis…” David Cockroft, Secretary of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, intones that it “… is a reminder of the importance of the work all of us are engaged in to provide a safer, healthier and better environment for seafarers.”

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Dr. Suresh Idnani (left) beaming with pride by the recognition of his peers.

This year’s judges were Mr Spyros M Polemis, President of the International Shipping Federation, Mr David Cockcroft, General Secretary of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, Mr Michael Grey MBE, the distinguished maritime journalist & ex-editor of Lloyds List and Mr Douglas Stevenson, Chairman of the International Christian Maritime Association.

Credentials. Dr. Idnanis’ career spans three decades of practical experience and training in the areas of seafarers’ health and welfare. He was elected twice as President of the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA). For four years he ran the South Asia Programme of the International Committee on Seafarers’ Welfare. As a result of his continuous follow up, there are now more than ten port welfare committees in India; the Colombo

Port of Sri Lanka leads the way in welfare matters and countries such as Bangladesh and Pakistan. Dr. Idnani is a certiﬁed ship visitor from the Nautical Institute, a workshop leader at the Lloyds Conference in Manila in Nov 2006. In 2009, he organized the 10th International Symposium on Maritime Health (ISMH10) in Goa India, the Global Partnership on HIV and Seafarers along with the ILO, IOM, ITF, ISF and UNAIDS. He is also assisting with the implementation of the ILO MLC 2006; and more recently, with the 2010 IMO STCW revision on matters relating to seafarers’ health and welfare. He holds academic positions with the University of Tarragona in Spain, Lloyd’s Maritime Academy and the National Sea Training Centre. He has written a chapter on seafarers’ welfare in a textbook on maritime medicine.

WESTERN SHIPPING SOUTHEAST ASIA INC. is continuously hiring competent Marine Ofﬁcers and Ratings for our ﬂeet of Panamax and Aframax Oil/Product Tankers, Chemical Tankers and Bulk Carriers. For further information, please contact the following numbers: Main Office 1810 Prestige Tower, F. OrtigasJr Avenue (formerly Emerald Avenue) Ortigas CenterPasig City e-mail address – info@westshipmanila.com Phone no: (632) 6364697 Fax no: (632) 6364691 to apply online please visit this website: www.westernshipping.sg

WSP MARITIME TRAINING CENTER INC. (WSPMTC) A newly registered Maritime Training Center conveniently located at 1802-1806 Prestige Tower, F. OrtigasJr Avenue (formerly Emerald Avenue), Ortigas Center, Pasig City, will open by February 2012. The following are the initial list of Maritime Courses to be offered: • • • • • • •

Electronic Charts and Information System (ECDIS) Radar Navigation/Radar Plotting and use of ARPA (RNRPA) Ship handling and Collision Avoidance Voyage Planning and Chart Corrections Tanker Vetting Course Marine Risk Assessment and Investigation Analysis ISM for Ofﬁcers and Ratings

For further information, please contact the following numbers: Main Office 1802 Prestige Tower F. OrtigasJr Avenue (formerly Emerald Avenue) Ortigas Center, Pasig City e-mail address – info@wspmtc.com Phone no: (632) 6553016 Fax no: (632) 6559641 Website: www.wspmtc.com (under construction

JANUARY 2012

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Effective January 1, 2012

ICS advises on rest, drugs and alcohol The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) reminds shipping companies to comply with the Manila amendments to STCW, particularly in relation to seafarers' rest hours and the more stringent requirements for preventing drug and alcohol abuse. These will apply worldwide by January 1st 2012. ICS and the International Shipping Federation (ISF) led employer representation at the IMO Diplomatic Conference which adopted the Manila amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 2010). The Manila amendments begin a phased entry into force from January 1, 2012. The new STCW minimum rest hour

requirements are likely to be vigorously enforced by Port State Control Officers who will have the authority to check that ships maintain accurate records for individual seafarers which demonstrate they have been provided with the required minimum rest. For example, seafarers must now always have at least 10 hours rest in any 24hour period. To help further reduce the possibility of fatigue, much of the flexibility that previously applied under STCW has now been removed. The new STCW rest hour requirements were developed to ensure that they were compatible with those stipulated in the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) expected into force in 2013 yet.

Peter Hinchliffe, ICS Secretary General, explaines: "It is particularly important that companies comply with the new IMO rest hour requirements and record and monitor seafarers' rest periods. Apartâ&#x20AC;Ś from preventing fatigue, Port State Control can be expected to begin checking the authenticity and accuracy of any record by comparing them with other vessel documentation. Seafarers must also confirm that their hours are accurately recorded." ICS advises that, because the STCW Convention already has widespread ratification, the 2010 amendments will be enforced on a global basis earlier than the ILO MLC standards. In practice, from January 2012 it is therefore expected that STCW 2010 will become the principal regime for rest hours that will be checked by Port State Control. For the first time under STCW, mandatory limits for alcohol consumption are also being introduced (a limit of not greater than 0.05% blood alcohol level (BAC) or 0.25 mg/l alcohol in the breath), although individual flag states may choose to apply stricter limits. Other new STCW requirements governing competence standards and certification will be phased in from January 2012. To avoid misunderstandings, ICS recommends that vessels keep on board copies of two circulars developed by the IMO Maritime Safety Committee in May 2011 which clarify the implementation dates of the STCW 2010 amendments for Flag States and Port States. Useful advice and reference information is available in the updated ISF Guidelines to the IMO STCW Convention. In addition, the ISF Watchkeeper 3 software will assist compliance with the new STCW seafarers' rest hour requirements, particularly with recording, monitoring, checking and planning.

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Jamaica Acts to be Regional Maritime Centre

amaica has kept its international maritime rule-making following its re-election to the United Nation’s International Maritime Organization’s Council (IMO) as its government unveils maritime development plans.

ports able to handle the Genesis class vessels. He considers pivotal its maritime training institute being the only IMO accredited Englishspeaking officer training institution in the region.

“Jamaica believes its role in the Council is critical to ensuring the interests of member States of the Caribbean Community as well as other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCS) continue to be adequately represented within the IMO,” declares Hon. Michael Henry, Jamaica’s Minister of Transport.

Mr. Henry continues, “The potential to develop as a ‘shipping centre’ is now being realized and actively supported at the highest policy levels. This all fits into the national transportation policy to integrate all aspects of transportation within the multimodal concept.”

Mr. Henry was speaking at 27th Assembly of the UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London early December following the re-election of Jamaica to the IMO Council. Jamaica is a Category C Council member and will serve up to 2013 on its seat held since 1976. Rear Admiral Brady chairs IMO’s subcommittee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping (STW). He is also Director General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica.

Jamaica vows to continue support on IMO, particularly: Providing leadership through technical assistance to CARICOM in training and capacity building, complementing and augmenting the work of the Regional Maritime Adviser (RMA) through the Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme; Assisting CARICOM States to strengthen their national Administrations and hosting of the Secretariat of the Caribbean Port State Control.

Minister Henry reiterates, “Jamaica considers the development and growth of our maritime sector as a major feature of our 2030 Development Plan to grow the economy while providing employment through a range of professional services.”

As a Regional partner, providing host-ship facilities for numerous IMO seminars and workshops including a Regional Seminar on Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention and Code and a workshop on Annex V of the MARPOL Convention.

He highlights Jamaica’s substantial investments in world-class ports in cruise and trans-shipment, as a leading cruise destination,

Providing experts to deliver training at a number of Regional Workshops outside of Jamaica.

As a lead partnering country (LPC) under the Globallast Partnership Initiative, conducting several Regional Seminars relating to the Ballast Water Convention. (Jamaica chairs the Regional Task Force on Ballast Water Management and has provided assistance to other Caribbean States through the sharing of experiences in carrying out obligations in Port State Control and in establishing the appropriate policies.) Ratification of all major conventions governing maritime safety, security and pollution prevention. Jamaica has joined its Caribbean partners to eliminate sub-standard shipping in the region through the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (CMOU). Jamaica has undergone voluntary assessment on VIMSAS audit regime.

Thomas Gunn partners with Regs4ships Thomas Gunn formally announces its partnership with Regs4ships to provide a complete bridge solution for the navigator with the latter’s digital maritime regulations incorporated into Gunn’s streamed Voyager navigational data management system. This should simplify the bridge environment which is one of the greatest challenges faced by the shipping industry. Thomas Gunn, founder and Managing Director of Thomas Gunn Navigation Services, says, “Today’s bridge environment is becoming more complex and regulated, and the navigator is subject to increasing pressure in order to stay abreast of regulations and requirements. Officers and in particular, navigators, demand access to the most up-to-date

information, exactly when they need it - be that navigational charts or legislation. Our partnership with Regs4ships means that this important information can be delivered regularly in one package through the Voyager chart management system.” Regs4ships delivers a vessel electronic documentation covering Flag State requirements, EU Legislation, ILO Conventions and IMO output. Key documents are amended and updated by maritime professionals saving time and money; preventing accidents and avoiding compliance issues. Gunn’s Voyager provides a personalised database of publications, charts and the applicable notices to mariners (NTM)

within a clear folio system. Weekly updates are provided through email or internet. Data is sent to the service user via weekly updates and an emphasis on reducing file sizes is key as file compression is used and only files of relevance to the vessel’s chart outfit are supplied. Nearly 2,000 vessels are currently subscribed to the Voyager service worldwide. “The synergy between our two businesses can only benefit our customers,” adds Mr. Gunn. “Customer response to this initiative has been very positive so far and we are looking forward to a long and mutually productive partnership with Regs4ships in the future.”

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The year that was and looking ahead

llow me first to extend my greetings to everyone for a more progressive and less disastrous New Year in comparison to what transpired in 2011. I would like to relay to the readers what MMAP has accomplished in 2011 and what to look for in the year 2012.

Oath Taking Ceremonies The Masters & Mates Association of the Philippines and Professional Regulations Commission Board of Marine Deck Officers (MMAP – PRC BMOD) joint oath taking ceremonies were held nine (9) times this year, i.e. January 11, February 16, April 11, May 11, July 11, August 31, September 30, October 28 and November 28. A total of 7,800 Marine Deck Officers took their oath either as first time licensees or promoted to the next rank.

Social Programs Last July 22-29 MMAP joined a medical and dental mission spearheaded by the Sonshine Media Network International in Taguig City, Paranaque City and Mandaluyong City with the Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabansa (RAM). As part of the National Maritime Week, MMAP supported last September 30th the Philippine Coast Guard in their medical and dental mission in Bulacan. MMAP’s dental services included 400 tooth extraction and 150 prophylaxis to members. Benefits of various categories were released, viz: 3,804 free accident insurance coverage while on vacation. 55 study-now pay-later scheme with partner centres.

February 16: Supported maritime NGO’s in the call for solidarity at the rally at DFA condemning the mortal shooting by Somali pirates Filipino Seafarers Farolito Vallega and Elviro Salazar; June 21 to 25: Supported the weeklong celebrations culminating on June 25 as the “Day of The Seafarer” spearheaded by MARINA;

of Marine Deck and Engine Officers, and technical experts from various maritime schools and training centers.

MMAP CORNER

July 18 to 22: Participated in the “National Seminar on Familiarization with the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention and Code” held at the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP); August 4 to 5: Participated in the “1st International Seafarer Family Convention” held at PICC where the MMAP President was one of the resource speakers; September 25 to October 01: Participated in the week-long celebrations of National Maritime Week. Your President was one of the resource speakers at the First National Seafarers’ Congress on September 29-30 at the National Museum.

Government Agencies In the second quarter of 2011, the European Union through EMSA warned withdrawal of recognition to Filipino seafarers if Philippine shortfalls on compliance with the STCW protocols are not corrected by August 30, 2011. This made waves in maritime industry, diplomatic circle and the Office of the President.

Our documented compliance was transmitted ahead of the deadline and accepted by EMSA. But we must be ready for the compliance audit sometime in March of 2012.

PRC Donation

Fire gutted the 4th floor of PRC last year, the area for filing application for Marine Deck and Engine Officers license, COC, endorsement and acceptance for licensure examinations. After the fire, all these were lumped on the auditorium at the 5th floor of PRC. PRC’s budget to rehabilitate the 4h floor was not enough, particularly the airconditioning system. MMAP pitched in as a 3-star donor and new facilities were inaugurated November 23rd and now open again to our members.

MMAP Regional Chapters MMAP inducted the new set of officers for its Regional Chapters and it was administered by no other than yours truly. As embodied in its by-laws, each MMAP Chapter is governed by a body called “The Council”. MMAP’s Batangas Chapter was created to cater for its members that are residing in the provinces of Batangas, Mindoro and Quezon. The Council for Batangas Chapter was inducted last July 2nd with its following officers: Executive Officer - Capt. Carlos Aguado Secretary – C/M Hemogenes Aguba Treasurer – 3/M Edwin Agena Business Manager – 2/M Arnold Consignado PRO – 2/M Melchor Gutierrez Auditor – 2/M Anacleto Gonzales

Maritime Events

MMAP extended technical expertise and time to MTC, CHED and TESDA as part of the Technical Working Group, Technical Committee and Technical Panel to craft and document compliance to the deficiencies cited in the EMSA report.

The induction was held at the Lyceum International Maritime Academy (LIMA) in Batangas City where the Chapter will be holding office.

We participated in the following

MMAP worked with the PRC Board

The following officers for The Council

15 free legal advice by our in-house legal counsel. 3 death benefits at Php 10,000.00 each.

maritime events :

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of the Davao – General Santos MMAP Chapter were inducted last July 30th: Executive Officer – Capt. Rogelio Paramio Secretary – Capt. Francis Aguilar Treasurer – Capt. Reynaldo Barber Business Manager – Capt. Leo Cia PRO – Capt. Generoso Galvez, Jr. Auditor – Capt. Allan Antonio The induction was held at DMMA College of Southern Philippines in Davao City where the Chapter will be holding office. The following officers for The Council of the MMAP’s Cebu Chapter were inducted last December 10: Executive Officer – Capt. Arnel N. Malaga Secretary – C/M. Cedric Wee Mabalot Treasurer – Capt. Antoine B. Dela Torre Business Manager – Capt. Norie C. Presto PRO – Capt. Samuel A. Echin & Capt. Emerico Gepilano Auditor – Capt. Arthur S. Espanola The induction was held at the Stella

Maris in Cebu City where the Chapter will be holding office.

MMAP House The flagship project of MMAP under the current administration is the construction of its own building, a 6-storey structure located at 1729 F. Agoncillo St., Manila. It was on 18th of August 2011 when the cornerstone of the MMAP House was laid which was attended by PRC Commissioner Hon. Jennifer Manalili, representing PRC Chairperson Hon. Teresita Manzala. The ceremony was attended by MMAP Directors and PRC’s Board of Marine Deck Officers; Engr. Nelson Ramirez of UFS and Mr. Willie Calderon of RAM were also there to witness the occasion with Rev. Fr. Johan Joseph consecrating the cornerstone. According to MMAP’s Business Manager, Capt. Wally Rivas, that should things go as planned the building shall be ready for turnover to MMAP sometime around September of 2012.

Looking Ahead The completion of the construction of MMAP House shall be the biggest thing that can happen to the association in

2012. Perhaps, some kind of fund raising will be necessary in order to augment the budget for the finishing and interior requirements. The programs and activities benefitting the MMAP members which transpired in 2011 shall continue. MMAP shall continue to be vigilant in ensuring the viability of the Filipino Marine Deck Officers as the choice of the world shipping community in manning their vessels. The association will take an active stance in seeing to it that the government agencies which are empowered and given the authority to implement the STCW Convention as amended are doing their jobs properly. We will not allow that our profession shall be threatened again of being obliterated. _________________________________  CAPT. RODOLFO A. ASPILLAGA. President of the Masters and Mates Association of the Philippines (MMAP). Treasurer of the League of Maritime Educators International Inc. (LEMARE). CEO of Bibby Ship Management Philippines.

FAME and AMOR

THE NEW LEADERSHIP PJMCC Chairman Eduardo Manese swears in the elected leadership of Association of Marine Officers and Ratings (AMOR). RAdm Adonis Donato, PCGA, Chairman, leads the unification of the maritime sector for a voice in Congress through the party-list vote.

POEA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac inducts officers of Filipino Association for Mariner’s Employment (FAME) led by Mr. Jose Albar Kato, president. Ceremonies were held at PICC Pasay, December 8, 2011 (when Cacdac was still an undersecretary at DOLE). JANUARY 2012

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Protection against Illegal Dismissal Under the Philippine legal system, the reason for one’s termination of employment is as important as the manner it is done. Both must be appropriate, otherwise the termination defective and may be declared unjustified. This is because a worker’s job is considered as property and the Constitution commands that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws. Since one’s job is property, one cannot be deprived of it without proper legal procedure.

The master cannot discharge a seafarer for trivial offenses. Serious offenses authorizing discharge include drunkenness, going ashore without leave, disobedience, fighting, theft, incompetency and more. A seafarer who is wrongfully discharged is entitled to sue for wages which would have been earned had the employment contract been fulfilled and for the costs of repatriation.

MARITIME LAW

There are two basic requirements for a lawful dismissal: a just or authorize cause as prescribed by law, and observance of due process. The former comprises the substantive requirement, and the latter constitutes the procedural requirement for a valid dismissal.

Seafarers are protected from illegal dismissal or wrongful discharge. While the Master has the right to discharge a seafarer for just cause or disciplinary reasons, this must be done with due process. On the other hand, seafarer cannot, on their own decide and without the consent of the Master or ship owner, to terminate their employment. Contractual obligations on the part of the seafarers and employers bind them together to respect the employment agreement. According to Section 1, Article Ill, Philippine Constitution: “No person shall be deprived of life, liberty and property without due process of law nor shall any person be denied. of equal protection of the laws.” Employment is property in the Constitutional sense. A seafarer cannot be deprived of his employment without due process of law which affords protection to labor. It directs the employer to comply with the procedural and substantive requirements of the due process clause to effect valid dismissal of a seafarer. Procedural Due Process requires notice and hearing to enable the aggrieve party to defend himself and to refute the charges against him. Substantive Due Process requires that the dismissal be for a valid cause. Failure to comply with the procedural and substantive requirements of the due process clause of the constitution makes the dismissal contrary to law and therefore illegal. The POEA Employment Contract provides procedures which must be followed in cases when a seafarer is discharged before the end of the contract. Also provided are the corresponding compensation or entitlements should a seafarer be discharged before the expiration of his contract. Like any other worker, seafarers must be provided protection against wrongful discharge. A seafarer could be discharged at any time, only for just causes as provided by law. Under general maritime law, the master is authorized to discharge. But this authority cannot be used arbitrarily. The master should observe and guaranty due process in termination.

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The POEA Standard Employment Contract enumerates offenses which may be considered as just causes of termination and grounds for repatriation.

When the seafarer is discharged for disciplinary reasons based on the offenses, the employer shall have the right to recover the costs of replacement and repatriation from the seafarer’s balance of wages and other earnings. However, before the seafarer can be dismissed , our labor laws require the service of a written notice containing a statement of the cause(s) of termination and giving said seafarer ample opportunity to be heard and to defend himself. A notice of termination in writing is further required if the seafarer’s dismissal is decided upon. The employer must furnish the worker with two written notices before termination of employment can be legally effected: (1) notice which apprises the seafarer of the particular acts or omissions for which his dismissal is sought and (2) subsequent notice which informs the employee of the employer’s decision to dismiss him. The twin requirements of notice and hearing constitute the essential elements of due process, and neither of these elements can be eliminated without running afoul of the Constitutional guaranty. An illegally dismissed seafarer whose employment is for a fixed period is entitled to payment of his salaries corresponding to the unexpired portion of his contract.

________________________________________________

 Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho. Bachelor of Science,

major in Economics (Dean’s Medalist) in 1991 and Bachelor of Laws in 1998 from the University of the Philippines Diliman. Admitted to the bar in April 1999. Heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. Lecturer on Paralegal Seminars on Legal Rights of the Seafarer in coordination with the church-based Apostleship of the Sea (AOS). Actively participated in the drafting of various legal documents pertaining to seafarers such as the revised POEA employment contract and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the amended Migrant Workers Act.

PRC re-opens maritime office

Chairman Manzala leads the reopening. Below, Commissioner Po with Board and sponsors.

By Lyn Bacani

Engineer Officers and Board of Marine Deck Officers.

Spacious but cool, that’s the return of the maritime office of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) in Sampaloc District, Manila, inaugurated November 23rd, 2011.

Cruz underscored the support of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to the maritime industry and encouraged stakeholders to continue collaborating with the government in meeting the challenges of global shipping, particularly the entry into force of the STCW Manila Amendments on January 1, 2012.

It took a year to renovate after being gutted down by fire. But it was wellworth the wait enjoying the sleek and user-friendly facility now. Labor Undersecretary Danilo Cruz led officials with PRC Chairman Teresita Manzala with Commissioners Jennifer Manalili and Engr. Alfredo Po. Also present were donors and officers from the Masters and Mates Association, Capt. Gaudencio Morales Foundation, Associated Marine Officers and Seamen’s Union, Joint Manning Group, Pos-Fil Maritime Training Center; Maritech Maritime Training Studies and Manning Services, Astra Marine International, Abosta Ship Management, Top Ever Marine Management, Pos-Fil Ship Management, Board of Marine

PRC Chairman Manzala persuaded the other professional boards to go along citing, “The PRC Maritime Office reflects the close cooperation that the government and the private sector have with regards to the seafaring profession and I wish that other professional boards would also follow the lead of the PRC marine boards to have their own offices in PRC.” Speaking for the donors, Capt. Gaudencio Morales remarks that their support to for the completion of the project “… is a payback,” reciprocating and recognizing the important role of Filipino seafarers to their respective companies, unions and associations.

New radio program

On the same month of November, PRC launches a radio talk-show dubbed, “PRC Professional Hour” aired over DZRJ AM Band 810 kHz. Every Tuesday at 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Lead hosts are Dr. Vivian Sarabia and Ms. Rikka Dylim. PRC welcomes this opportunity to join hands with its media partner, DZRJ, in providing an intelligent forum for the discussions of issues and the public’s concern about the regulated professions. The PRC Professional Hour is conceived as a forum for disseminating to the public PRC’s role in promoting and developing the 46 regulated professions under the new Chair and Commissioners. JANUARY 2012

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GOVERNMENT

DEFENSIVE SHIPS, DIPLOMATIC OFFENSIVE By Coca H. Strobar The “cream of the crop” of the Philippine Navy will ply “the icon of the modernization” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Proud and passionate claims on the recent commissioning of BRP Gregorio Del Pilar at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila. President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III led the rites with sisters Ballsy, Pinky and Veil acting as sponsors. Navy tradition requires women as christening sponsors for good luck. But instead of traditional champagne, basi (local wine fermentedfrom sugar cane) was used for the “blessings.” Navy Capt. Alberto Cruz shall command BRP Gregorio Del Pilar, the Navy’s biggest and most modern warship to date. It is a Hamilton Class Cutter acquired for PhP450-million. Two more of these are targeted for acquisition early 2012. President Aquino stressed the importance of beefing on defense facilities to defend the Republic against external threats. He was repeating previous statements that referred to defense of the West Philippines Sea (also known as South China Sea and by other names by other claimant nations). Capt. Cruz says it will be deployed within the year to secure the Malampaya gas-topower project off Palawan and to defend our territorial and economic zones. Vietnam and China has overlapping claims in the area. President Aquino and Vietnam President Truong Tan Sang have agreed adherence to the UN Convention on the Laws of the Sea

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(UNCLOS) as a peaceful resolution of the territorial issues in the West Philippine Sea (or East Sea by Vietnam and South China Sea by China).

South China Sea (WPS/SCS) through a proposed zone of Peace, Freedom, Friendship and Cooperation (ZOPFF/C) in the area.

But the Global Times, a popular tabloid in Beijing, warned that Vietnam and the Philippines should not take advantage of China’s “mild diplomatic stance.” Although not an official mouthpiece of the Communist Party, the populistpaper warns “if these communities don’t want to change their ways with China, they will need to mentally prepare for the sounds of cannon.”

A joint ASEAN declaration did not mention the Philippine proposal but vaguely made similar references as the Philippine Proposal.

This brings to a reality check the defense capability of the Philippines. For while the christening and commissioning were optimistic, what were emblazoned as “modern” are excess USA defense articles for defensive patrols and disaster mitigation operations like: • BRP Tagbilaran – made locally as a landing craft cum utility ship for troops, logistics and non-combatant evacuation like medical, rescue and relief operations. • PNH-422 – a utility helicopter, German-built and donated to the Naval Air Group by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprises Zone Authority. • BRP Ang Pangulo – back to its original name after the Arroyo Administration renamed Pag-asa this 40-year old presidential yacht. In a regional forum last November in Indonesia, the Philippines suffered a diplomatic setback when the 10-member of ASEAN failed to reach a commitment on its proposed resolution. The Philippines sought solidarity among ASEAN against China’s claims in the disputed West Philippine Sea /

The ASEAN cold-shouldering of the Philippine proposal of ZOPFF/C is understandable sinceLaos, Myanmar and Cambodia, the latter next chairman of ASEAN, are friendly to China. Malaysia nor Brunei do not want to antagonize China. Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario is pushing a legally binding Code of Conduct (COC) based on the 2002 Declaration of Parties in the South China Sea that was agreed upon with ASEAN and China. But experts believe this technically binding COC is a mere face-saving of the Philippines allowed by its ASEAN partners. And to further assuge the Philippines, agreements were signed on providing assistance during natural disasters, a rice pool, protection and rights of migrant workers and discussions in opening ceremonies relative to the global slowdown. The Philippines will continue to pursue its diplomatic offensive in various fora, expecting to animate discussions at the ASEAN Ministers’ Meeting, ASEANPlus Three, even in the ASEAN-China Commemorative Summit and the ASEAN-Plus Three Summit. Malacañang underscores that the President will bring to the floor even during bilateral discussions the ZOPFF/C and COC proposals.

PORTS

Ports are priorities By Coca H. Strobar The woes of the collector of Customs in Davao may soon be over as PhP2.7-billion will be invested for a new port in Parabo City. Customs in Davao could hardly increase its collections without a container terminal for faster turnover of trucks and plug-in facilities for reefer containers. Anflo Investment and Management Corp (Anflocor) will invest on an eight-hectare property that used to be the TADECO Wharf. Earth-breaking starts early next year and completed by first quarter of 2013. Anflocor President Alexander N. Valoria says they will build modern handling facilities and stateof-the-art yard equipment to accommodate 240,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in its first quarter operation. The Aboitiz Construction Group will build the facilities. Anflocor is part of the Florendo Group which continues to diversify from an agriculture giant to property and shopping malls. The latest project was triggered by its observation that even bananas and pineapple have shifted into containers from breakbulks. In a similar vein, International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) has opened an express lane for refrigerated containers at the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT). ICTSI Manage for MICT Aurelio C. Garcia explains, “Trucks with single transactions need not line-up with other trucks as they

can use the dedicated reefer lane.” Anflocor and ICTSI’s expansion run parallel with Government policies as announced by Secretary Mar Roxas of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC). Secretary Roxas says up to US$6-billion will be dedicated to port and aviation expansion. The whole package is US$16.8billion delayed by reviews which hold-ups even lowered the GDP growth of the country. Even Year 2002 US$471million new port proposal between the towns of Consolacion and Liloan, Cebu, is being dusted off to give maritime freight capacity a significant boost. The Philippines is ranked 123rd globally in terms of quality and efficiency of port infra-structure. For both air and road infra-structure, the country is 75thof 142 nations assessed by the World Economic Forum (WEF) last September. But while the two giants are in sync with government policies, there is a fly-in-theointment. Secretary Roxas prefers government funds like the Official Development Assistance (ODA) in building major infra projects as bank rates are higher at 6 to7%. At the other spectrum, the government is hard-pressed to accelerate spending to prime push the economy to recover the targeted 7.3% GDP growth of 2010. And clearly, the priority on the transportation sector is Secretary Roxas’ bias on port improvements.

Razon firms up growth By Ligaya Caban International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) continues to be a major port operator recording a 34% hike in third quarter profits over year ago level. Revenues increased by 24% to $185.67-million with sales rising to almost a third at $171.78-million. While expenses rose 37% to $136.36-million, the reconciliation from January to September gives a 41% ($101.63-million) profit handling 3.84 million TEU’s, a 25% growth also over last year. ICTSI operates 23 port terminals in 27 countries, six of which are in the Philippines. Recently, it invested $10.7-million in upgrading facilities at Berth 6 at the Manila International Container Terminal. Under Enrique Razon’s

corporate leadership, ICTSI continues to expand by actual construction and asset acquisition. Just at the tail end of November, ICTSI took 78% stake at Active Alliance for PhP200 million. Wespac Holdings sold 60 million shares to Prime Metroline Transit in turn owned by tycoon Razon. While Prime Metroline is not listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange, shares of ICTSI recently closed 0.36% higher at PhP55.20 apiece. Earlier, shares of Active Alliance rose to PhP76 apiece from being traded at only PhP13.72 week on week. Analysts think the surge was mainly fueled by speculations that Mr. Razon is buying Alliance owned by Bienvinido Tan III, son of a former BIR Commissioner. JANUARY 2012

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SHIPBUILDING

Steady on course, M/S Noah.

A Story of Success: CMI Shipyard By Lyn Bacani

LORY TO GOD was the passionate echo of the TanzaNavotas community, not much glint of self-centered pride expected on inauguration of a large business complex. The night was for thanks giving; the De Guzman Family led neighbors in appreciating blessings of the Almighty. It was a pious night, indeed. But a happy one, highly perked with goodwill and optimism. People know they are not just honoring a family and a business but celebrating, as well, their own opportunities in livelihood. For they know the family, rooted by their windows and growing with each of them.

Together. And sharing. A touch nostalgic was the joint birthdays of father and daughter: Engineer Carlito De Guzman and daughter Carlota. That December 11th was also formal launch of Chesteel Marine Industrial Corporation Shipyard operated at 3 Sampaguita Street, Merville Subdivision, Tanza, Navotas City. The celebrations of the De Guzman

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JANUARY 2012

family were joined in by relatives, church officers, friends, CMI officers, staff and clients. Navotas Mayor John Reynold Tiangco led councilors and barangay officials, given that patriarch De Guzman is the sitting punong barangay (elected village head) of Tanza. Indeed, CMI is a story of success every Navoteno can really be proud of.

Evolution. Engr. Carlito De Guzman with his wife Nenita started Chesteel Metal Fabricator in 1983. It was registered at the Department of Trade and Industry as a fabricator of steel doors, windows and all types of steelworks. Quite shortly, Chesteel Metal expanded as a general contractor, installation of machineries and parts, a machine shop that can do foundry jobs and marine repairs. In June 2005, growth was formalized with Chesteel Marine Industrial Corporation (CIMICORP) registration as a full corporate juridical entity with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). However, Chesteel limited equity ownership and management only to direct De Guzman Family.

In the market, Chesteel gained reputation in marine repair through satisfied local and international clients. Amongst them are Magsaysay Ship Management, Lorenzo Shipping, Negros Navigation, Oceanic Container Lines, Translift Shipmanagement, Loadstar Shipping and Alabat Shipping. From the foreign shipping companies are Tokyo Marine, Wan Hai Lines Singapore, Cosco Marine Singapore, Keymax Maritime Japan and Unix Line Ltd.

Innovation. Chesteel introduced to the shipping companies an innovation in the industry, the ultrasonic thickness gauging system which served local and foreign vessels. Maintaining quality system, Chesteel is now accredited by global certificating bodies like the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Lloydâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Register, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai, Bureau Veritas, RINA Hong Kong and the local Filipino Vessel Classification System Association certification. Year 2006 was heavy with investments,

earned from Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) an upgraded certification allowing it to build ships instead of just repairing them. Officially, now open for business: Chesteel Marine Industrial Corporation (CMICORP) shipyard.

Family-inspired. The name Chesteel is derived from Che, De Guzman’s grand-daughter from their youngest daughter. It is combined with steel being core of the business, hence Chesteel.

Love conquers all.

purchasing equipment to meet the growing demand for various industrial services. Chesteel Training Center was established on March 2008. It is accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA- Camanava) which offers courses on ship and metal art. Direct beneficiaries are neighbors who are trained practically free and with work waiting upon completion. Trainees are not constricted to Chesteel work but may hunt for jobs elsewhere. But one thing though, they must understand and practice the spiritual values inculcated into them as formal segments of the technical training. With a lot for its own shipyard and completing other requirements, Chesteel

Patriarch De Guzman established the business on his love to his family. And always by his side is the gentle, softspoken Nenita - yet, a source of will when times are rough. Chesteel daily grind in the hands of son Engr. Carlito Jr. as president and general manager. Family members hold key functions like Aireen as vice president for business development, Carlota as board treasurer and Sheryl de GuzmanTan as board secretary. Matriarch Nenita is a board member and the elder De Guzman chairs the Board.

Service to community.

Engr. De Guzman is currently the Barangay Captain of Tanza, largest in land area and third most populous in the City of Navotas. He was literary pushed into it for the community to recover from inept 18 years rule and frustrating mode of the recent incumbent. His priority is to generate employment to fellow Navoteno since CMICORP Shipyard cannot absorb even just the able bodies of a 30,000 population.

In terms of dwellings, he has more elbow room in the 500 hectares open and in cooperation with government and non-government assistance, particularly Habitat. He is currently aligned with the Tiangcos, both the mayor and the congressman. They are also in the same shipyard business but arguably the Tiangcos are much, much bigger.

Potentials. “A good thing that starts well, ends well,” curt but crispy message Capt. Celso De Guzman, brother of Carlito. He explains because the shipyard is built not for profit nor business but to help people within the community for livelihood, CMI will prosper. “We hope and pray that this shipyard will flourish in five years; hence, will become a very big shipyard”, continues Capt. Celso who is Chairman of MARITAS Training Center, a pioneer in maritime training. Two other brothers, Engr. Ricardo and Engr. Luisito, both in the maritime industry, also joined the celebrations with assurances of support to their elder brother, Carlito. Beyond doubt, the night was an outpouring of hope and gratitude to the deeds and lifestyle of Carlito and Nenita. Friends, clients and colleagues are almost one in their testimonies on his goodness and passion to generate employment for the people. It may be jaded but never-the-less a perfect wish for Engr. Carlito: May Your Tribe Increase!

Carlito De Guzman Family: Prepared for the future JANUARY 2012

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Subic next biggest exporter of vessels By Gen Dy The Philippines’ Subic Bay Freeport aims to be the biggest exporter of maritime vessel, at least, among its Asian neighbors. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia says Subic Bay possesses key infrastructure that can support a wide range of businesses including shipbuilding. He points the SBMA mission is “to generate economic opportunities and livelihood as a competitive maritime, logistics and eco-tourism” process point. Chairman Garcia sees Subic to be the next biggest exporter of commercial vessels with the highest proportion of high-value exports in the Association

of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) region.

natural environment accessible by land, sea and air.

“Subic Bay is strategically located in the growing East Asian region and ideal logistic center for Asia.

It also has a complete port with 15 operational piers and wharves, including a passenger/ cruise ship terminal plus a fullyoperational international airport with a 10,000-sqm passenger terminal and 2.7-kilometer runway.

He cites Singapore is devoid of any resources other than its people, so it is natural that it would be a leader in high-value industry. Malaysia has made great strides in electrical and electronic exports with exports in 2004 valued already at US$ 64billion which account for over half of total exports. Thailand, “the Detroit of ASEAN,” reports vehicle production doubled between 2002 and 2005 to 1.1 million vehicles. It also claims as the world’s biggest producer of pick-up trucks.

Garcia: economic opportunities. Indonesia, he observes, showed some growth in high-value exports from a low base economy. It is presently more geared towards textiles and clothing. Subic has a 670 sq. km.of commercial and tourism potential with its high quality

He stresses Subic is a choice investment site of more than 1,300 local and foreign investors with a cumulative committed investment of more than US$ 7-billion and a workforce of more than 92,000. Subic boasts of Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction –Philippines. It makes topquality ships that elevated Philippines from nowhere to fourth largest shipbuilder in the world.

NEDA plans for maritime industry, world ship orders increase By Gen Dy The government has set strategic plans for the maritime industry and policies to support seafarers, pro-active to world cargo fleet expansion anticipated in the next two years. The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) says the government supports our seafarers who comprise about 24% of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). NEDA Assistant Director-General Ruperto P. Majuca says our seafarers are facing the challenge of being banned from working in EU flagged ships and threatened to revoke accreditation of Philippine maritime schools.

NEDA’s Majuca adds that the average deployment of our seafarers stands at 285,095 annually from 2007 to 2010. In 2010, about 339,608 seafarers were deployed, up 3% from 2009. In terms of vessel type, majority are in passenger type vessels with 69,298 workers closely followed by those in bulk carriers with 67,247 seafarers.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has intensified inspection of maritime schools, clamping down some flyby-night operators.

Container types employ 44,691 seafarers; tanker 28,065 seafarers; oil and product tanker, 23,319 seafarers; chemical tanker, 19,617 seafarers; general cargo, 14,740 seafarers; tugboat, 10,396 seafarers; and other types, some 62,235 seafarers.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) also revamped the technical assessment of maritime schools, and proposed the creation of a single pool of assessors and seafarers.

Stene says about 25%t of the world cargo fleet are under third party ship management which poses the challenge to “…. promote Philippines as the ship management center not just crew supply center.”

These appear to be the response of Government to the global increase of ships coming out of shipyards which, in turn, require more seafarers.

Stene adds there is need for recruitment in the industry because of the shortage of shore staff with maritime background and competence. In particular, there is employment slots in class surveyors, insurance companies, financial institutions, port state and flag state administrators, ship-owning and shipmanagement companies.

Aboitiz Jebsen Managing Director Ole Stene, says of the 1.2 million

seafarers, Filipinos account for 30%. The world cargo fleet stands at 57, 598 ships with about 6,082 more ordered and for delivery between 2011 and 2013.

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JANUARY 2012

Ole: ship management center. He observes 90% of the world transportation is by ships, thus the need for wider awareness of its importance in the world economy. There is also a need for competence building as there are more technically advanced ships which demands specialized competencies among the officers/ crew. Dr. Majuca says regular upgrading and updating of standards on safety and security will be done to keep up with international standards and practices. “The government will strictly implement the standards on safety and security. The government will also ratify maritime safety and security-related conventions to enhance maritime safety and security,” Dr. Majuca claims.

SWAPI – birth and activities S ix years ago, SWAPI CORNER came into existence with the first issue of Marino World which coincided with the celebrations of the 10th National Seafarer’s Day (NSD), September 25, 2005. The theme was, “Filipino Seafarers: Going Strong – Lalong Tumatatag.” I can still recall the publisher Ms. Lyn Bacani distributing the magazines at Quirino Grand Stand, the venue of NSD celebrations. I am happy that Bacani invited me to join Marino World as columnist to express issues and concerns of our organization, the Seamen’s Wives Association of the Philippines (SWAPI).

Aids and VAdm Eduardo Santos of Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP).

RAdm Adonis Donato of the OSM Maritime Services discussed my favorite topic, “Security for future of the seafarers and their families. It was a successful Convention with participants even from ASEAN nations.

Year-End Activities. SWAPIans had our Advent Recollection at Goodwill 3 Chapel in Sucat, Paranaque doing a “Raffle for a Cause.” Proceeds was used to support value-formation seminars, assist victims of natural calamities and scholarship for seafarer’s children.

SWAPI CORNER

The officers and members of SWAPI are fond of reading maritime news, eager to know what’s happening in the maritime world involving the rights and welfare of their seafarer-husbands. Sometimes we send them clippings of the same interest.

ISFC. Representatives of SWAPI National office, Palawan, Cebu and Bohol chapters participated in the First International Seafarer Family Convention (ISFC) held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on August 4-5, 2011. The project was launched by Marino World and Gig and the Amazing Sampaguita Foundation (GASFI) on February at the Amosup Convention Hall attended by government officials, maritime stakeholders and associations who confirmed their support to the Convention. Among the prominent speakers were Hon. Carmelita Dimzon of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA); Ms. Carla Limcaoco, Women in Maritime Phils (WIMAPHIL); Dr. Leilani Nicodemus, Seamen’s Hospital; Dr. Asif Altif, International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) Global HIV

SWAPI’s Christmas Party became a happy reunion of old and new members. Some were joined in by their husbands and children. Thank you, Sponsors: Western Union, Toperio’s Catering, Yan Ang Marino and Marino World. Yours truly also joined the Christmas Party of the Association of Marine Officers and Ratings (AMOR) on December 22 where we had fun games with seafarers and their families. We donated used clothes for the Typhoon Sendong victims at Cagayan De Oro and Iligan cities. I encourage seafarers and their families to help our brethren in Northwestern Mindanao. May the Good Lord shower His bountiful blessings to seafarer families and their communities. ________________________________________________

 MRS. MINDA GOMEZ. National Vice President of the

Seamen’s Wives Association of the Philippines (SWAPI). Very active in maritime activities. Advocate of programs for the welfare of seafarers and their families.

Have you read to your child today? It only takes 20 minutes

www.gasfi.org JANUARY 2012

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