President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday asked new graduates of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) to help maintain the country’s global role in the maritime industry.
In his keynote address during the commencement exercises for 224 cadets of the “Madasiklan” Class of 2023 in San Narciso, Zambales, the President challenged the graduates to keep the country’s maritime workers “an asset to the entire world.”
The Chief Executive also ordered all concerned government agencies to take a whole-of-government approach to help the nation keep up with the global maritime industry standard.
Mr. Marcos told government agencies to work closely with PMMA to allow the country’s maritime industry to be more innovative, more resilient, and adaptive to the changing demands.
He also acknowledged the support of the private sector in elevating the capabilities of the Philippines as a maritime nation.
“As your partner in improving the skills and capabilities of our people in the maritime industry, I call on all the concerned agencies to coordinate closely with the PMMA,” President Marcos said.
“Facilitate what will make our maritime education even more responsive to the needs of the nation while ensuring that whatever steps that we take will be in compliance with laws and regulations. This feat represents all that you have brought to the table so that we may fulfill the goals that you have set for your lives,” the President added.
The President also said the success of the Philippine maritime industry would benefit not only for the graduates, but also their families, and the Filipino people and for the Philippines.
“Let that thought and let the opportunity to make a change in our society propel you to excel further and to become the leaders that you were trained and meant to be … May all of you be blessed as you navigate the world’s seas and oceans in the days and years ahead. My heartfelt congratulations,” he added.
Former president and Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was also present during the graduation rites along with Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Lagdameo, Zambales Gov. Jun Ebdane, and PMMA Supt. Commodore Joel Abutal.
