The Diamond Princess, named Best International Ship in Japan by Cruise Magazine Reader’s Poll, made a triumphant return to Manila on September 13.
Renowned for its luxurious amenities, cutting-edge technology, exceptional dining experiences, and world-class guest service, the ship is a destination in itself.
A high-level delegation, including government officials, diplomats, and maritime industry leaders, warmly welcomed the Diamond Princess to Manila. Assistant Secretaries Levinson Alcantra and Jerome Pampolina of the Department of Migrant Workers, Administrator Arnaldo Ignacio of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Executive Director El Cid Castillo of the Qualifications and Standards Office of TESDA, along with representatives from the American diplomatic corps and the MAGSAYSAY Group, were among those who greeted the ship.
Invited guests were treated to a luncheon and a tour of the ship, where they experienced firsthand the Diamond Princess’ state-of-the-art facilities and exquisite gourmet cuisine. The ship’s previous port call in Manila was in May 2020.
The port call was an excellent opportunity for the country to showcase its Filipino hospitality, highlight the country as a tourism destination, and pay tribute and salute the competency and quality service of Filipino crew members in their workplace.
The event also underscores the contributions of Filipino seafarers and helps promote career opportunities for aspiring Filipinos who would like to pursue a profession onboard cruise ship. Diamond Princess carries 2,706 passengers on board, with 1,100 crew — 517 of whom are Filipinos.
The ship is one of the 16 cruise ships of Princess Cruises employing over 10,000 Filipino seafarers. MAGSAYSAY has been the official recruitment partner of Princess Cruises since 1987 for its cruise ships’ hospitality and technical departments.
Princess Cruises’ presence has already been established in the Philippines by partnering with MAGSAYSAY, through Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA) training and education of seafarers to achieve the highest level of excellence and innovation.
In June 21, MIHCA Mandaluyong and Princess Cruises premiered the latest kitchen and housekeeping equipment which showcases cutting edge technology found only in world-class cruise ships – among the first in the country.
