Naval architect confab set in Davao

MANILA, Philippines - The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers Inc., (SONAME) is holding its midyear general assembly at Sea Urchin Hotel in Davao City on Aug. 17-19. The SONAME president and convention chairman Thaddy Jovellanos said the theme of the conference is Naval Architecture in Shaping our Future.

Assisting him in managing and coordinating the three-day affair are Jerome Manuel and Ronie Bontor, chairman and auditor, respectively, of the Vismin chapter.

Expected participants are licensed and non-licensed practitioners and alumni of Namei Polytechnic Institute, a pioneer school in naval architecture and marine engineering course.

Among the highlights of the conference is the government program to modernize and enhance the maritime industry. In support of this program, Executive Order 588 was issued to strengthen the ship building and ship repair sector to promote its growth and development.

The comprehensive development program aims to demonstrate the capability of the local ship building industry to establish a design standard and build appropriate vessels for use in the Philippine Archipelago.

The financial assistance to support the expansion and modernization program is being made available by the Development Bank of the Philippines through JICA by launching its high – impact Logistic Infrastructure and Development Project.