President Marcos Jr. Highlights Maritime Education Commitment
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s dedication to advancing maritime education and training in the Philippines during the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy’s (PMMA) “Kadaligtan” Class of 2025 graduation ceremony in San Narciso, Zambales. The focus on maritime education and training remains a top priority as the nation seeks to strengthen its maritime workforce.
Challenges at Sea Demand Stronger Training Standards
Addressing the 252 graduating cadets, Marcos emphasized the formidable challenges that await them on the seas. “The seas are rife with challenges and it will test your limits,” officials reported the president saying. To prepare the youth, the government is enhancing training standards to ensure they meet higher levels of competence and readiness.
“That is why the government is ensuring that the training standards in our country are stronger and of a higher level. We will soon have a National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test that will assess whether our youth are ready to take maritime courses in college,” Marcos explained, according to community sources.
Innovative Programs to Elevate Maritime Education
In addition to the aptitude test, the administration is developing the Ladderized Maritime Education and Training Program. This initiative aims to provide a seamless progression from non-degree to degree courses, ensuring continuous skill development for maritime students. Local leaders noted that this program will help bridge gaps in maritime education pathways.
Further, the Maritime Industry Authority is actively working to expand opportunities for onboard training, offering graduates practical experience that will prepare them for real-world challenges at sea.
Inspiring Graduates to Uphold Maritime Excellence
“Let this day inspire you to live up to your class’ name, bringing your own light even to the darkest of seas,” the president encouraged the cadets, as community members recalled. The “Kadaligtan” Class name stands for “’Kawal ng Dalampasigan, Liwanag ng Karagatan,” symbolizing guardianship of the shores and light of the oceans.
Marcos reminded the graduates that their horizons are vast and their voyages will take them to different parts of the world. “Remember that in every journey, you bring with you the honor and love for the nation,” he added, according to official reports.
Graduates Poised to Serve the Nation
The 252 cadets who graduated include 144 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and 108 in Marine Engineering. They are expected to join key maritime sectors such as the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Merchant Marine fleet, contributing to the country’s maritime security and commerce.
Midshipman First Class Marc John Castañeto, hailing from Llanera, Nueva Ecija, was named the class valedictorian. Sources highlighted his humble background as the son of a retired elementary school teacher and a retired bus conductor, underscoring his inspiring journey.
For more news and updates on maritime education and training, visit Filipinokami.com.
