President Marcos to maritime grads: Uphold Philippines reputation

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday urged graduates of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) to uphold the global reputation of Filipino seafarers as one of the world’s trusted mariners, as he vowed to further strengthen the country’s maritime education and training system and ensure the safety and welfare of those working in conflict-affected areas.

In his speech at the commencement exercises of the PMMA Salighirang Class of 2026 in San Narciso, Zambales, Marcos hailed Filipino seafarers for their competence, professionalism and dedication, thus earning the trust of the international community.

“To our dear graduates, you will soon join thousands of Filipino seafarers, the most trusted mariners in the world, bringing pride to our nation,” the President said. “But this reputation is not permanent. It must be earned by every generation.” 

“You will serve in different organizations and carry out different missions. Yet wherever your journey takes you, you will uphold the proud reputation of a Filipino seafarer,” he added. 

Marcos said “salig,” a Cebuano word meaning trust, conveys sagisag ng liwanag – a guiding light similar to a lighthouse leading ships safely to shore – while “hirang,” a Filipino word meaning chosen or destined, embodies haliging huwaran, or serving as role models for future midshipmen.

The batch comprised 327 graduating midshipmen – 146 from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and 181 from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering courses.  

Midshipman First Class Mark Owen Trilles of Tigaon, Camarines Sur is the class valedictorian. 

Marcos said not too long ago the country’s maritime education and certification standards came under a “serious challenge,” putting at risk the livelihood of roughly 50,000 Filipino seafarers serving on European Union-registered vessels.

“We could not allow the future of our Filipino seafarers to be placed in such a situation. And that is why your government acted immediately,” the Chief Executive said. 

“We strengthened maritime education and training, improved certification systems, upgraded facilities and equipment and worked closely with our international partners to ensure that Philippine standards continue to meet global expectations,” he said. 

“Through these efforts, we will continue to safeguard the global employability of Filipino seafarers. At the same time, we will uphold the highest international standards in our maritime education, training and certification system,” he added.

Marcos assured the public that the government would continue to prioritize the safety and welfare of Filipino sailors working in areas affected by conflict, including the Middle East.