Maritime scholarship slots await Cebuanos

CEBU, Philippines — Younger residents in Cebu City seeking a career in the maritime and hospitality industries now have the opportunity to pursue a tuition-free diploma education after 300 scholarship slots were opened through the Admiral Aznar Academy Maritime Training Institute (AAAMTI) under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The Cebu City Government is encouraging qualified residents to apply for the scholarship program, which covers three diploma courses set to begin on Nov. 16, 2026.

In a letter to Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr., AAAMTI Chairman Andre S. Aznar informed the city government of the available scholarship slots and asked for help promoting the program to eligible applicants, particularly recent senior high school graduates.

The scholarship covers the Diploma in Maritime Hospitality Technology, Diploma in Marine Deck Operations Technology, and Diploma in Marine Engine Operations Technology.

AAAMTI will offer all programs at its campus at Mactan City Times Square in Barangay Basak, Lapu-Lapu City.

Each course runs for three years, or six semesters, with scholars entitled to full tuition coverage for the entire duration of their studies.

Aside from tuition, beneficiaries will receive books and learning materials, student insurance, TESDA national certification assessment fees, and a personal allowance every semester.

Students, however, will still need to shoulder their dormitory accommodation, meals, and uniforms.

The academy clarified that the scholarship program will not require any financial counterpart from the Cebu City Government.

The program is open to male and female applicants aged 17 to 28 who are K-to-12 graduates or Alternative Learning System (ALS) completers. Applicants must not yet hold a college degree and must not have previously availed themselves of a TESDA diploma scholarship.

According to AAAMTI, graduates of the programs will be equipped for employment opportunities aboard cruise ships and commercial vessels, as well as jobs in the hospitality sector, including hotels and restaurants.

To reach more eligible applicants, the academy requested support from the Office of the City Administrator, barangay officials, and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in disseminating information about the scholarship.

Interested applicants may register online through the academy's application portal or coordinate directly with AAAMTI's admissions office via email at [email protected] or through 0945-761-0699.

With classes scheduled to start on Nov. 16 and slots being offered on a first-come, first-served basis, qualified young Cebuanos are encouraged to submit their applications early.  — /IHM (FREEMAN)