The government is undertaking major reforms to strengthen the country’s maritime industry and ensure the preparedness of the next generation of Filipino seafarers, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Friday.

During the commencement exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy’s (PMMA) Kadaligtan Class of 2025, Marcos cited key initiatives aimed at enhancing the training quality and global competitiveness of the Philippine maritime workforce.

“Each path is different, but you carry the same compass guiding you towards excellence and service. The seas are rife with danger. It will test you, it will push you to your limits, but above all, it will shape you into the mariner that you are meant to be,” he said.

“I believe your safe arrival at your destination is a triumph for yourself and for the people that you serve. Kaya naman tinitiyak ng pamahalaan na mas matibay at mas mataas ang antas ng pagsasanay ng ating bansa (That is why the government is ensuring that our country’s training standard is stronger and of a higher level).”

The President said the National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test would measure prospective students’ readiness to pursue maritime courses at the tertiary level, ensuring that they possess the necessary foundational skills required for the rigorous academic and practical training.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), he said, is finalizing the ladderized maritime education and training program to allow a smoother transition from non-degree programs to full maritime degrees, to open up more opportunities for Filipino seafarers.

He said MARINA is also working on expanding opportunities for onboard training.

“To our cadets, do not forget to carry your mission and carry on the tradition of excellence of the PMMA. Let this day inspire you to live up to your class’ name, bringing your own light event to the darkest of seas,” he said.

The Kadaligtan Class, which stands for “Kawal ng Dalampasigan, Liwanag ng Karagatan,” comprises 252 cadets, with 144 graduating with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Marine Transportation and the remaining 108 earning a BS in Marine Engineering.

Midshipman 1st Class Marc John Castañeto from Llanera, Nueva Ecija, hails as the top of the class. He is the son of a retired elementary school teacher and a retired bus conductor.

The PMMA, a government-funded pioneer institution established in 1820, is dedicated to maritime higher education, producing the finest Filipino merchant marine officers to serve in marine and maritime-related industries worldwide.

Its graduates are bound to join the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine Fleet as licensed marine engineers and deck officers, playing key roles in the global maritime industry and in strengthening the country’s maritime defense. (PNA)