President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. on Friday lauded the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) for two centuries of service in training Filipino mariners, while announcing new programs aimed at strengthening the country’s maritime education.
Speaking at the graduation of the PMMA “Kadaligtan” Class of 2025 in San Narciso, Zambales, Mr. Marcos traced the institution’s roots to its founding in 1820 as the Escuela Nautica de Manila in Intramuros.
He said the academy has since produced thousands of mariners serving in the Navy, the Coast Guard and the merchant marine worldwide.
“Each path is different, but you carry the same compass guiding you towards excellence and service,” President Marcos told the 252 graduates, praising their readiness to navigate “even the most turbulent waters.”
The President announced the creation of a National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test to assess the preparedness of students aspiring to take maritime courses in college.
He also unveiled the Ladderized Maritime Education and Training Program, designed to allow seamless progression from non-degree to degree programs, and said the Maritime Industry Authority is working to expand opportunities for onboard training.
Mr. Marcos commended the graduates’ families, calling them “the true heroes behind every cadet,” and urged the new mariners to uphold the dignity of the academy and the nation in every voyage.
“Carry the name of PMMA, of ‘Kadaligtan,’ and of the Philippines to every port and every sea you will cross,” he said.
The PMMA “Kadaligtan” Class of 2025 is composed of cadets who will join various maritime services, with some entering the military, others the Coast Guard, and many pursuing careers in the global merchant fleet.
