marino world july sept 2014 digital edition

MARINO WORLD 1

VOLUME IX NO. 2 ISSN 1908-0972 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014

US$8 €12 ¥200 PHP120

JOB OPENING: WELDING TRAINING OFFICERwith the following responsibilities:

Conduct and implement various training programs / courses of weldingin areas of SMAW, TIG, MIG/MAG and Oxy-Acetelyne processes;

Set and maintain workshop facilities and other improvements;Assist in the Assessment of welding test results;

Carry out of town assignments for NTC-MCarries out substantial review of welding courses at least once a year

Interested applicants may drop by or call the Human Resources Department, at NTC-M building, TESDA Complex East Service Road Taguig City, Tel. No.: (632) 812-0742 or (63) 0917-5222472

He or she must be:A Unitor certified Welder DNV class 6-g

With extensive welding experience of at least 5 yearsAll around working knowledge of Welding Technology

and Willing to travel

SHIP AND CARGO HANDLING COURSES01A Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker - STCW 2010 (5 Days)01B Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker - STCW 2010 (5 Days)02 Advanced Training for Oil Tanker – STCW 2010 (10 Days)03 Ship Maneuvering and Handling (5 Days)04 Advanced Training for Chemical Tanker – STCW 2010 (10 Days)05 Ship Simulator and Bridge Teamwork – STCW (5 Days)06 Advanced Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker - STCW 2010 (10 Days)06A LNG Familiarization for Deck & Engine Ratings ** (4 Days)06B LNG Cargo Handling Operations * (5 Days)06C LPG Cargo & Ballast Handling * (5 Days)08 Navigational Watchkeeping & Collision Avoidance * (5 Days)09 Bridge Team Management (5 Days)10 Ship-to-Ship Lightering * (5 Days)11 Electronic Chart Display & Information Systems – STCW 2010 (5 Days)12A Dynamic Positioning System – Basic (5 Days)12B Dynamic Positioning System – Advanced (5 Days)13 Fixed Hydraulic Ship Crane Operator Course – G20 (3 Days)13A Offshore Crane Training Course – G5 (5 Days)- Shiphandling with High Lift Rudder (5 Days) | Refresher * (2 Days)- BRM w/ Shiphandling (3 Days)- Crane Simulator Training * (5 Days)- ECDIS – Kongsberg Familiarization* (2 Days)

MANAGEMENT COURSES21 Shipboard Management * (10 Days)22 Maritime Administration (5 Days)23 Maritime Crew Resource Management for Deck & Engine Officers – (BRM/ERM) ** (4 Days)26 DNV- ISM Course * (3 Days)27A Maritime Risk Management & Incident Investigation (3 Days)

SAFETY COURSES61 Ship Security Officer Course (3 Days)61A Gangway Watch Security Course *** (1 Day)61B Ship Security Awareness Training and Seafarers With Designated Security Duties (1 Day)62 Company Security Officer Course * (3 Days)63 Gas Measuring Equipment Course (2 Days)64A Safety Representative and Working Environment Committee – Formerly PEC (5 Days)65A GMDSS / GOC – STCW (15 Days)65B GMDSS Refresher Course * (5 Days)14 Basic VHF Radio Communication (2 Days)

TECHNICAL / ENGINEERING COURSES41 Engineering System * (5 Days)49 Bilge Water & Waste Oil Operation Management (5 Days)50 AMOS –Windows (5 Days)- AMOS-W Refresher * (3 Days)51A Auxiliary Boiler Operational Maintenance * (3 Days)57 Corrosion Protection and Paint Maintenance ** (4 Days)- Paint Course Practicum * (1 Day)- Sandblasting Trade Test* (1 Day)- Hydroblasting * (1 Day)58A Star – IPS (3 Days)58B BASSnet HR – Payroll * (2 Days)58C BASSnet SAFIR * (2 Days)58D BASSnet Document Manager * (2 Days)58E BASSnet Maintenance & Procurement * (3 Days)59 TM Master v2 – ONBOARD (3 Days)

ASSESSMENT PROGRAMShip’s Catering Services NC I (Messman Assessment)Ship’s Catering Services NC II (Ship’s Cook Assessment)Ship’s Catering Services NC III (Chief Steward Assessment)Deck / Engine / Electrical Officers Evaluation ProgramSwedish Maritime Legislation Examination

ELECTROTECHNICAL COURSES42 Control Engineering – Module 1 (10 Days)43 Control Engineering – Module 2 (5 Days)44 Introduction to Marine Electro-technology (10 Days)45 Marine Electro-technology (5 Days)46 Electrical Equipment & Schematics (10 Days)46A Marine Refrigerant Transition & Recovery ** (3 Days) Marine Refrigeration & Air Conditioning - 5 Days*70 Pneumatics for Marine Application * (5 Days)71 Electro-Pneumatics for Marine Application * (5 Days)72 Programmable Logic Control for Marine Application * (5 Days)73 Hydraulics for Marine Application * (5 Days)74 Electro-Hydraulics for Marine Application * (5 Days)- Marine Electrical Maintenance * (10 Days)- Ex / Exi for Marine Application * (2 Days)

ALFA LAVAL47A Alfa Laval Marine & Power Auxiliary Machinery Systems – Module 1 (4 Days)47B Alfa Laval Marine & Power Auxiliary Machinery Systems – Module 2 (5 Days)48A Alfa Laval Auxiliary Machinery Course (Customized )*48C Fuel Management *

FRAMO CARGO PUMPS52 FRAMO Operation & Maintenance – for Officers (5 Days)53 FRAMO Operation & Maintenance – for Ratings (5 Days)

CULINARY COURSES81A Ship’s Catering Services NC II (Ship’s Cook) MLC 2006 (10 Days)82A Ship’s Catering Services NC I1 (Messman) MLC 2006 (10 Days)- Ship’s Catering Services NC III (Chief Steward) MLC 2006 *- Scandinavian Cooking Course * (5 Days)

WELDING COURSES83A Advanced Welding Course – Various Onboard Welding Processes (10 Days)83B Electrode Welding and Cutting (5 Days)83C Welding and Brazing of Stainless Steel (5 Days)83D Gas Welding / Cutting and Brazing (5 Days)83E Tig Welding and Brazing of Seawater Pipe (5 Days)83F Mig and Mag Welding (5 Days)83G Basic Welding and Fabrication (10 Days)83H Upgrading for Shipfitters (10 Days)83I Trade Test 1 – Basic Test of Welding Skills (2 Hours)83J Trade Test 2 – Advanced Test of Welding Skills (1 Day)83K Training / Testing for DNV Welder Certification83L Arc Welding and Gouging – Sea Fastening (5 Days)83M Basic Welding and Metalworking (20 Days)83N Advanced Welding and Pipe Fabrication (10 – 15 Days)83O Fitter / Fabricator Test (1.5 Days | Max 12 Hours)83P Plasma Cutting Process (1 Day)83Q Pipe Welding Practicum83R Welding Inspection Course for Ship Officers (3 days)

OTHER COURSESMarine Engineering Auxiliary Machineries * (5 Days)Energy Management Awareness Course * (3 Days)Environmental Awareness Training * (3 days)Diesel Engine Course * (5 Days)Engineering Knowledge for Deck Officers * (4 Days)Maritime Leadership Training* (4 Day)Shipboard Time Management * (2 Days)Bosun’s Course *

NOTE:* Course conducted only upon request** Course starts every TUESDAY of scheduled week.*** Course conducted on THURSDAY and FRIDAY of scheduled week

2014 COURSE PROGRAMS

Visit our blog: http://ntcm360.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/norwegiantrainingcenter-manila www.ntcm.com.ph @ntcm360













































COMPLIANCE OFFICER - will be responsible for the design and continuous development of course programs offered by NTC-M both for regular participants and NSA cadets, ensuring their compliance with the requirements of STCW ’78 as amended and other applicable rules and standards.

The Candidate: • Acollegegraduate,preferablyabachelorinmaritimefieldofeducation; • Sufficientknowledgeandunderstandingofmaritimeeducationalsystem; • Musthaveanexperienceincoursecurriculumdevelopment,educational

measurementandevaluation; • HolderofvalidPRCidentification; • Completed6.09and3.12IMOModelCourses; • Preferablywithteachingexperienceinmaritimerelatedfield; • Genuineinterestincoursedevelopment.

JOB OPENING

MARINO WORLD4

EDITORIAL BOARD

EDITORIAL OFFICE

International CorrespondentsF R Chowdhury Mark Millar

News and Feature WritersEva Tan Coca H. Strobar Ligaya Caban

Contributors

[email protected]

Content CritiqueCommo. Dante Jimenez

PhotographerRoyette De Paz

Legal CounselAtty. Manuel Obedoza

CirculationJoana Marie Tud

Tel. / Fax(632) 521-3633

Mobile(63) 916-6307080

Address1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines

PublisherLyn Bacani

Editorial ConsultantB. Cortes Lagac

Creative DirectorJhon Henson Ong

www.marinoworld.com.ph

Published by Bacani & Associates Media Services Co. (BASMS)

RAdm. Adonis Donato Ms. Merle San Pedro Atty. Cristina Beltran

MARINO WORLD 5

It’s more fun in the Philippines, so goes our official line on tourism. So much festivals to see, so much food to taste, so much culture to experience.

And in seas yonder, we have Filipino Seafarers ply about their trade in silent dedication; in inclement weather and life-threatening risks of virus, battles and pirates.

Yet, little does our countrymen realize we already have a foothold on a quarter of the global merchant marine total; but ambitious planners prod us to book for more share, more principals, more jobs.

How should we do it? May come at a premium.

For despite the world clamor on Filipino tripulantes, we still cower at the threat of the European Union to withdraw recognition on our

competence. There could go about 80,000 jobs on EU-flagged vessels; and possible copycats of other nations seeing how we crumble when jobs are ransomed (i.e., recent Taiwan and Hong Kong threats to ban Filipino OFWs).

We are being criticized for having too many maritime schools. Why not, our janitors are college graduates. Education is a passion and fashion. So hint on the quality, not on quantity.

As one educator laments, our degree courses are being scrutinized; schools warned of closure if we don’t come up to the demands of the employers. Funny, he observes, because less than 10% of our BSMT and BSMarE proceed to be officers.

So why not just build on better Ratings or OS. We save a lot of time, money

and aggravation with pushy foreign principals. And let the ambitious go all the way.

Overall, EMSA is a good wake up call for us to be world-class. It is on sovereignty and mendicant posturing that we cringe. Will EU allow our financial auditors to check on liquidity of their principals before doing business in the Philippines? You’re out-of-your-mind just to ask, eh?

So let’s continue the trending: reforms on systems, policies, schools, the works. But let us do it because we want to, not pushed at. Let us discover and re-discover our saline blood, reform and reformat to a global competitive thrust.

Indeed, explore Maritime Philippines!

EXPLORE MARITIME PHILIPPINES

Publisher’s Note

MARINO WORLD6

MARINO WORLD 7

Content

ABOUT THE COVERWhile elders demand and debate their interests, the real pawn is the future of the young.

Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong

12Analysis

Stakeholders Call for Tripartism

08Cover Story

As EMSA Returns

SCHOOLS IN DEEPER DILEMMA

32Feature

Shipping Bodies Issue Ebola Virus Advice

16Shipping

Pilipino Reelected at Intl Chamber

24PORTS

Europeans Wary On Decongest Policy

MARINO WORLD8

As the government try to please the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), maritime schools remain floating in turbulent waters.

EMSA Senior Project Officer Jaime Veiga inspection team is coming back this year, by the last week of September, thereabouts.

This is to verify in situ, on the spot, implementation of measures promised by the Philippine Government made basis of a six-month reprieve given by the European Union (EU) last April.

On top, the Philippines also agreed to report developments every three months; the first report submitted late in July (but EU graciously accepted) in consideration of Typhoon Glenda raging then the islands.

MARINA IRR.

Officials confirm that the highlight of the July report is the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA10635, the law that mandates MARINA as the country’s “single maritime administration” for the enforcement of the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, and other related international covenants.

RA 10635 is also known as “MARINA STCW Administration Act of 2014.”

The IRR went through the grinder on a photo-finish: maritime industry consultations June 5th, DOTC approval July 18th, MARINA signing on July 24th and publication in a national periodical (i.e. Manila Times) August 9th to make it officially a law.

Section 3 of RA 10635 is a defining proviso: MARINA as singly mandated to implement the 1978 STCW for all seafarers registered or certificated in the Philippines; to cover all government agencies in the entire process of securing all relevant certificates and documentary evidence for the seafarer.

Consultations?

On alleged industry consultations, sparks were already flying.

The Multilateral Technical Working Group (TWG) drafted the IRR headed by MARINA STCW Executive Director Alvin Tormon with representatives from the Commission on Higher Education, Professional Regulation Commission, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, National Telecommunication Commission, Department of Health, Angkla Partylist and UP Law Center.

The private sector representatives were raffled from the manning agency,

academe’, deck officers, marine engine officers and seafarer ratings sector.

Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) Secretary General Dante La Jimenez says, “… Capt. Michael Sarthou, Jr., member of the TWG representing the Academe… did not consult our organization.”

PAMI, the biggest organization of maritime schools with around 80 members, submitted its position paper on June 10th, deadline of MARINA. But just like the other organizations, observers believe almost none of their comments were considered in the final IRR.

Director Capt. Alvin Tormon counters they have studied all the sectors suggestions but there are points that can already be clarified through STCW circulars.

CHEd Memo.

On July 15th, CHEd issued a memo on the “Corrective Action for Submission to EMSA on 21 July 2014.”

CHEd states, “…MARINA and CHEd are compelled to identify by 21 July 2014 initial candidates for phase out as well as initial candidates for reclassification – or for the unbundling of the BS program, either from the enhanced support level program or the

As EMSA ReturnsSCHOOLS IN DEEPER DILEMMA

Cover Story

by Coca H. Strobar

MARINO WORLD 9

regular support level program – based on a triangulation of available data…”

This is “… to safeguard the national interest, ensure the survival of the Philippine maritime industry, preserve the primacy of the country in the provision of competent seafarers and establish a niche in the quality education and training of officers for the international maritime industry.”

The triangulation includes:

1. Status of submission and STCW compliance of the curriculum, of the first and second year course programs, and of the catch-up plan for the first year courses offered in 2013;

2. PRC licensure examinations in the last three years;

3. Results of the outcomes-based evaluation for those that have been visited;

4. Proportion of students with completed academic requirements; and

5. Other significant indicators that MARINA and CHEd will identify.

Letters and show cause orders will be issued to the candidates for phase out on or before 15 August 2014. Unless they can justify by 31 August, they will be excluded in the provisional White List of the MHEIs and BS programs that MARINA will publish on 30 September.

If they are still unable to meet the criteria by 31 December 2014, they will no longer be in the final White List that MARINA will publish by January 2015.

The memorandum also states “MARINA and CHEd are contemplating the possibility of lifting the moratorium on the BS Marine Transportation and BS Marine Engineering programs.

Position.

PAMI reacted by July 28th, “(W)e lament… all these measures to overhaul the MET system from education, training to certification of seafarers, had to be done almost overnight, unmindful of the

due process that is sacrificed and much wastage of resources resulting from the sheer absence of clear direction for the reforms…”

On August 28th PAMI had a dialogue with MARINA Administrator Max Mejia, Jr. and CHEd Commissioner Cynthia Rose Bautista to discuss the paper.

Whitelist.

PAMI appeals to “ensure the due process to all maritime higher education institutions by completing the evaluation of MHEIs prior to publication of any list.”

MARINA initially released MHEIs 4-category classification: A- for decision (35 schools), B- for monitoring (46 schools), C- Phase-out

Under Appeal (6 schools), D- Phase-Out, Final (8 schools).

PAMI VP for NCR/South Luzon VP Dr. Chito Dalaguete, VP of Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, suggests to classify the schools in terms of their extent of compliance because “What EMSA is looking is how effective or efficient are we in monitoring our schools.”

The MARINA list also brought misinterpretations. Some schools confirm principals have stopped sponsoring cadets from them because they are not in the Class A. In fact, they are but just listed in Class B because they are yet to be inspected. Class A schools are not off the hook nor most outstanding.

Closure, Phaseout, Delineation.

Schools worry on the failure of the MARINA IRR to clearly define “Closure” as against “Phased-out.”

Phased-out program is where First Year Students are no longer accepted but Upper Year students shall be allowed to continue until all graduate from the Phased out Program*. Closure means the program is immediately closed and all Upper Year students are required to transfer to other MHEIs*. (*Both per CHED definition).

CHED calls for the:

• Voluntary phase out in good faith by June 2015 of the BS programs of MHEIs that do not meet STCW regulations; and

• Voluntary delineation starting June 2015 by MHEIs that meet STCW regulations at the operational level but only for a subset of students – the alpha class – of the BS program for these classes and the ESLP and/or the regular ratings program for the other students who are otherwise enrolled in the BS Programs with the caveat that a system of admission from the ESLP must be instituted for students who are eligible to proceed.

But PAMI asks CHEd/MARINA to issue clear documentary reference materials to MHEIs on the proposed

Admin. Mejia

Comm. Bautista

MARINO WORLD10

EMSA RETURNS

ESLP immediately to guide MHEIs in the realignment of plans for institutional programs per CHEd memo.

Dr. Marcelo Fernandez, PAMI auditor and president of Fernandez College of Arts and Technology in Baliuag, Bulacan, encourages fellow educators, “Hayaan natin sa top 15 schools to produce the top students in maritime. Tayo naman pagbutihin natin sa baba. Kumbaga mga engineers, mekaniko kung magagaling naman yan will be proud..why go through the stringent requirements.” (Let the top 15 schools produce the top students… Let us excel under…)

Fernandez school is in Class D of the MARINA whitelist. But says he was the first to ask CHEd for their BSMT program to be phased out after analyzing that only 10% of their graduates opt to be officers.

C/E Benito Chiongbian, president of West Bay Colleges, worries for those schools which are offering only maritime programs.

This is aside from the fact that many maritime schools have already invested millions in facilities like simulators and other upgrades; purchased through borrowings.

“But there are schools, 90% offering only maritime, that will be a big problem,” says Chiongbian, PAMI immediate past president.

Instead, Choingbian suggests “… all of us will promise to limit number of freshmen, commit ourselves how many percent to reduce… we will be more selective…because the biggest problem that we have is the lack of qualified faculty members. This will automatically solve our problem…for a specific lesser number of students, quality education.”

The moratorium.

PAMI reiterates “CHEd should not lift the moratorium and allow new applicants to offer maritime programs (degree and ESLP) as this action runs contradictory to the very reason for the phase out and closure order of maritime programs aimed at cutting down the big number of schools currently operating.”

PAMI adds, “It is lamentable that as early as 2005, new maritime schools have sprouted despite the moratorium policy and further in 2011, despite a closure order, another Cavite-based College relocated in Manila to absorb thousands of students from the MHEI ordered closed.

Today, despite a CHEd cease and desist order, this institution continues to enjoy offering maritime programs allegedly with CHEd permit. How can a cheat deliver reforms, observers ask.

PAMI appeals to be given one year of extension to prepare its Letter of Intention to comply with the CHEd Memo dated July 25, 2014 on Extension of Deadlines and Clarification of July 15, 2014 Memo.

Due process.

PAMI believes Section 7.4 Instructors, Assessors and other Required MHEI/MTI Personnel…to report to MARINA STCW office and CHEd any incident of non-compliance or prohibited acts… “are arbitrary, one-sided and smack of a Gestapo-style of addressing non-compliance issues.”

Due process demands opposing parties enjoy equal rights and protection of the law. Hence, PAMI asks for a “grievance procedure” be in place to clearly delineate accountability.

PAMI also finds as too high the P100,000 fine for a single offence in one school year and final written warning on the possible phasing out of the MHEIs.

PAMI seeks judicial process on this while PAMI’s Merle Jimenez-San Pedro underscores the provisions

are “indicators of showing low level of confidence for the institutions.”

Shipboard training.

Last August 20th, CHEd conducted a public hearing on the proposed revised policies, standards and guidelines for shipboard training, minimum laboratory equipment requirement and bridging program at its auditorium, UP Campus, Quezon City.

More than 300 school heads, deans and shipboard training officers of maritime education, the largest crowd since CHEd conducts public hearing for maritime schools.

PAMI asks MARINA and CHEd with the support of Angkla Party List to adopt and implement a strong policy/support mechanism for shipboard training berths of cadets in all domestic ships and international vessels.

MC3, s-1982 must be revisited and mandate domestic ships to provide shipboard training berths. Just as reference to moving targets for key indicators in shipboard training at 70% should be reduced initially to 30%, with commitment to increase yearly.

Other challenges.

Maritime schools are also burdened by less (or delayed) enrollees with the two-year addition on secondary education by CHEd’s K-12 program.

They also face open competitions with other Asian countries with the ASEAN Integration due 2015 in major aspects of business, education and policy.

Maritime schools may be in a choking situation; but ultimately, students are the victims if reforms are not instituted.

Shareholders speak.

http://www.informamaritimeevents.com/FKT2665MWAD • Tel +44 (0)20 7017 5511 • Email: [email protected]

JOIN US AT THE SHIPPING INDUSTRY’S LARGEST SEAFARER RECRUITMENT, RETENTION & TRAINING CONFERENCE

In association with:

Free five day online trial

Wednesday 26 – Thursday 27 November 2014 • Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

QUOTE VIP CODE FKT2665MWAD TO

SAVE £100

500+ senior experts representing 30+ countries 45+ exhibitors

MARINO WORLD12

A wild card is dealt against the usual control of Government of the maritime industry: that of unity, calling for active and meaningful participation (read, involve us; as in tripartism).

“All of us are in one boat. Let us sail together towards one direction,” declare the stakeholders in an “Open Letter” published in three major broadsheets (Inquirer, Star and Bulletin), August 11th.

The stakeholders find the urgent need to “unite, forge cohesive action and direction, and prevent enmity… otherwise, we face a very dim future of losing our premier position in the international shipping community.”

Observers believe the new-found bargaining chip is egged by an Agency’s “demand” for a public endorsement via an “open letter.” It’s a likely tit-for-tat; so you want us for you, then try us against you. Or worst, merely fence-sitting for plum interest.

The industry might also have been jolted into pragmatic realization of its import by the ballistic reaction of MARINA against the sniping of one man escalating the issue to the international front.

Whether unity, or rebellion, or coming-of-age, some are wary it is forged on the eve EMSA auditors are coming back for a final look whether the European Union withdraws or retains recognition on

Philippine maritime competence.

Of course, there are signatories who are outwardly anti (antay or waiting) but are waiting to be peace brokers to covet perks in their persuasion.

Most importantly --- and that is why the Open Letter is a milestone --- is that one only asks what is not there. And one goes public, spends heavily on it, when things seem unbearable.

Signatories.

The open letter of August 11th is signed by major associations, viz:

• JMG, Joint Manning Group

BY LIGAYA CABAN

Analysis

MARINO WORLD 13

• FSA, Filipino Shipowners Association

• INTERMAP, International Maritime Association

• PAMAS, Association of Manning Agencies

• PJMCC, Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council

• AMOSUP, Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union

• PSU, Seafarers Union

• MATEU, Mariners’ and Allied Transport Employees Union

Also included are:

• ISLA, International Seamen’s Mutual Labor Association

• ISP, Integrated Seafarers

• MMAP, Masters and Mates Association

• SONAME, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers

• FILSCAPTS, Society of Filipino Ship Captains

• PMMAAAI, Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association

And:

• PAMI, Association of Maritime Institutions

• PAMTCI, Association of Maritime Training Centers

• MARCDOC, Maritime Clinic and Doctors Association

• NTIF, NYK-Transnational Institute Foundation

• MAAP, Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific.

Sea Lion Finally Growls

STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR TRIPARTISM

by Ligaya Caban

MARINO WORLD14

Major sector.

The opening of the declaration is quite predictable on its own importance:

• Nurtured for more than 40 years by all stakeholders;

• Continuous employment to over half a million Filipino seafarers; with thousands more in ancillary services;

• Remits over US$5.2 billion annually to our foreign exchange; and

• A pillar of stability at the height of financial crises.

Playing mind games.

The stakeholders commend government on the timely passage of R.A. 10635 that established MARINA as the Single Maritime Administration responsible for full implementation of the 1978 STCW international convention, with all its amendments.

Angkla Partylist Congressman Jesulito A. Manalo was praised for its successful enactment (given Presidential priority as it is unlikely a freshman can move Congressional leaders the way they did for RA10635).

MARINA’s Administrator Maximo Q. Mejia Jr. was cited for leadership in crafting the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) “… as well as other initiatives to harmonize efforts… to pave the way for the country’s full compliance with International Conventions”.

So are the cooperation of CHEd, TESDA, PRC, NTC, and DOH in supporting DOTC, MARINA and DOLE in the implementation of R.A. 10635.

Appeals galore.

The open letter takes the case for all the ergonomics or parts of total maritime concerns. It does not default to one advocacy. One must read in between

meanings to substantially understand the “pakiramdaman” (sublety) like:

To Congress

• Allocate the necessary budget to fund the new organizational structure, systems and regulations under R.A. 10635 (or, put money where your mouth is);

• Consider the many pending legislations and consult the signatories in the deliberations of proposals (or, stop ignoring us, please).

To Government Agencies

• Like (DOTC, DOLE, DFA, DOH, CHED, MARINA, POEA, PRC, NLRC, TESDA, OWWA, PCG, PPA directly in the maritime industry involved in the maritime and seafaring Industry (or, clarify the wishy-washing);

• In particular, MARINA, PRC and TESDA must immediately put in place all systems, process and accreditation of training centers and training programs in the issuance CoC, CoE, and CoP as well as NCI and NCII to be compliant with MLC 2006 and 2010 STCW by December 31, 2016 (or, avoid lines under blazing sun).

• With the private sector, to come up with a comprehensive and sustainable “roadmap” that will enhance, sustain and further develop domestic and international maritime and seafaring (or, govern by policy, not knee-jerks).

To President Benigno Aquino

• As your boss, “We claim our vested privilege not only to be heard, but more importantly, be listened to. We also ask that the practice of tripartism be adopted

in all policy and other important deliberations affecting the industry.”

To our Seafarers and Families

• Maintain professionalism while serving on board and give honor to the country as role models of an Overseas Filipino Worker;

• Continue to enhance competence through continuous and timely training to meet the global standards and comply with the International requirements;

• Give meaning to the Filipino’s sense of gratitude to people who have given you employment opportunities; and

• Continue the hard work and excellent service you are providing and refrain from acts that will tarnish our good image.

Back on the fence.

As a parting shot, the open letter encourages refrain from any act detrimental to the industry “… especially in the eyes of the international shipping community and maritime organizations…” a clear snipe on dissenters.

Albeit, “to continue our commitment to assist and support all initiatives of government agencies towards improvement of the industry.”

It also reminds manning companies to monitor and encourage their pool of seafarers to prioritize training requirements for re-certification in compliance with MLC 2006 and 2010 STCW Manila Amendments.

With a final pitch for unity, the signatories herald “… Let us remain to be one strong cohesive team in our journey towards greater success as the country of choice for maritime manpower in the world.”

STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR TRIPARTISM

Let us remain to be one strong cohesive team...

Cruise lines continue to home port ships in Asia offering an ongoing opportunity in the ship repair, refurbishment and port infrastructure development sectors. Showcase your products and services to the cruise line buyers and decision-makers responsible for these projects at Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific. The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest emerging market in the cruise industry. Put your stake in the ground and reserve your exhibit stand today!

AMUSEMENTS & RECREATIONAL ATTRACTIONS

DESIGN & REFURBISHMENT

DESTINATIONS

ENTERTAINMENT

FOOD & BEVERAGE

HOTEL OPERATIONS

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

SHIP SERVICES

Pan-Asia’s PremierCruise Industry EventNovember 20-21, 2014

Contact [email protected] or visit cruiseshippingasia.com to reserve your stand.

Owned andorganized by: In partnership with: Host City:Official Event Partner:

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong

Marino World_FullPAgeAd_210x280_CSAP14.indd 1 8/12/14 16:16:07 PM

MARINO WORLD16

The 4th Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific, slated for November 20-21, presents the 2014 conference program as cleared by UBM, organizers of the event.

This year will analyze the market potential and challenges associated with the emerging Asia cruise market. It will also explore the infrastructure and itinerary development opportunities.

The conference will be led by a panel of regional and international industry experts, to be named at a later date.

The conference kicks off on Thursday, November 20 with The State of the Cruise Industry in Asia, followed by concurrent sessions: “The Operating Environment in Asia” and “Focus on China.”

Friday has concurrent morning sessions: “How Asia Will Grow as a Source Market” and “Cruise Infrastructure Across Asia,” followed in the afternoon by “The Itinerary Development Across the Region” and

PTC Vice-Chairman and CEO Gerardo A. Borromeo was re-elected Vice-Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), extending his term to 2015.

Also re-elected as Chairman was incumbent Masamichi Morooka, along with three Vice Chairmen namely John C. Lyras of Greece, Karin Orsel of Netherlands and Esben Poulsson of Singapore.

PILIPINO REELECTED AT INTL CHAMBER

“Shipbuilding and Refurbishment in Asian Yards,” concurrently.

Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific is organized by UBM in partnership with Seatrade Communications and is exclusively supported by Cruise Lines International Association and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association. Official Event Partner: Hong Kong Tourism Board.

More data are available at www.cruiseshippingasia.com

Venue is at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre; for more info, www.hkcec.com

About UBM

UBM connects people and creates opportunities for companies across five continents to develop new business, meet customers, launch new products, promote their brands and expand their markets.

Its premier means are Routes, CPhI, IFSEC, TFM&A, Cruise Shipping

The meeting was hosted by the Cyprus Shipping Chamber celebrating its 25th anniversary.

ICS representatives from national shipowners’ associations from the Americas, Asia and Europe carefully reviewed many significant regulatory developments affecting shipping with respect to safety, environmental protection and employment affairs. They

Miami, the Concrete Show. UBM exhibitions, conferences, awards programs, publications, websites and training and certification programs are an integral part of the marketing plans of companies across more than 20 industry sectors.

UBM Asia (www.ubmasia.com)

Owned by UBM plc listed on the London Stock Exchange, UBM Asia is Asia’s leading exhibition organizer and the biggest commercial organizer in mainland China, India and Malaysia.

Headquartered in Hong Kong with subsidiaries across Asia and the US, UBM Asia has a global network of 30 offices and over 1,200 staff in 25 major cities.

It operates in 19 market sectors with 160 exhibitions, 75 conferences, 28 trade publications, 18 vertical portals and virtual event services for over a million exhibitors, visitors, delegates, advertisers and subscribers from all over.

also scrutinized various legal, insurance and trade policy developments.

This chamber is the principal international trade association for shipowners, with member national associations from 36 countries representing all sectors and trades of over 80% of the world merchant fleet.

Features Comprehensive Sessions : CRUISE SHIPPING ASIA-PACIFIC 2014 CONFAB

SHIPPING

Thomas Kazakos, CSC Director General; Peter Hinchliffe, ICS Secretary General; Karin Orsel, ICS Vice Chairman; Eugen Adami, CSC President; Masamichi Morooka, ICS Chairman; Dirk Fry, CSC Board member; John C. Lyras, ICS Vice Chairman; and Mr. Gerardo Borromeo.

MARINO WORLD 17

The Philippine Center for Advanced Maritime Simulation and Training (PHILCAMSAT) has received the distinction of being the first maritime training center in all of Asia to be recognized by the Belgian Maritime Inspectorate.

PHILCAMSAT courses receive certification from the Directorate-General for Maritime Transport under the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport agency of the Kingdom of Belgium.

Also granted certification was the Mapua-PTC College of Maritime Training and Education (CMET), an industry academic-linkage between leading crew management company Philippine Transmarine Carriers (PTC) and the Malayan Colleges Laguna of the Mapua Institute of Technology.

Issued in Antwerp, Belgium, by Naval Architect-Director Bart Heylbroeck, the certification verifies whether that the content, method of instruction and the evaluation employed by PHILCAMSAT and CMET in their training courses are in accordance with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) code.

With this development, PHILCAMSAT trainees and graduates of CMET are

assured that their training is compliant with international standards and is duly recognized by European-flagged ships, thereby helping secure employment on board these vessels.

This is another testament to PHILCAMSAT’s strength in and commitment to providing seafarers with world-class competency training through its simulator-based center in First Maritime Place, Makati City.

Its basic safety training campus in Maragondon, Cavite, (nicknamed The MAST) is in collaboration with CMET for basic education.

Instrumental in PHILCAMSAT’s attainment of this distinction is Exmar Shipmanagement, represented by Capt. Marc Robert, LPG Unit Director, who shares in PHILCAMSAT’s belief in the capability and skill of the Filipino seafarer enhanced through opportunities for continuing professional development.

A total of 10 training courses passed the certification audit and these include:

• A-VI/3, Advanced Firefighting Training

• A-VI/1, Basic Safety Training

• A-VI4-1, Medical First Aid Training

• A-VI/2-1, Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Other than Fast Rescue Boats Training

• A-II/4, Trainings for Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch on ships of 500 Gross Tonnage or More

• A-ll/2, Trainings for Masters and Chief Mates on Ships of 500 Gross Tonnage or More

• A-ll/1, Training for Officers in Charge of a Navigational Watch on Ships of 500 Gross Tonnage or More

• A-lll/2, Training for Chief Engineer Officers and Second Engineer Officers on Ships Powered by Mail Propulsion Machinery of 300kW or More

• A-lll/1,Training for Officers In Charge of an Engineering Watch in Manned Engine Room or as Designated in a Periodically Unmanned Engine Room, and

• A-III/4, Training for Ratings Forming Part of a Watch in a Manned Engine Room or as Designated to Perform Duties in a Periodically Unmanned Engine Room.

The First in AsiaBELGIUM

RECOGNIZES PHILCAMSAT

Training

(From L-R) Marc Robert, LPG Unit Director of Ex-mar; Bart Heylbroeck, Director of the Belgian Maritime Inspectorate-Flagstate; Katherine Avelino, PHILCAM-SAT GM and Executive Director for Education and Professional Development; and Claude Maerten, LNG Director of Exmar.

MARINO WORLD18

As one of Bicol’s most revered institution, the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) prepares for more ambitious projects going into its 40th anniversary.

On its fourth decade, the theme for the anniversary is “Mariners for Bicolanos: 40 Years and Beyond.”

MPCF was conceived and founded by the late Commodore Jaime C. Jimenez, Sr., then of the Navy, a Chief Marine Officer, and a serious advocate for quality education.

He was former president of the Philippine Maritime Institutions (PAMI), an organization of maritime schools; chairman of the Commission on Government Reorganization (PCGR).

Commodore Jimenez believes the youth must be given best education to become effective leaders. Hence, in 1974, he

opened the Mariners Polytechnic School in Manila with an enrollment of 35.

The school was transferred to Bicol to help fellow Bicolanos develop into quality seamen. From 52 Bicolano cadets, the enrolment grew by leaps and bound for the quality it shared.

Today MPCF has three campuses: in Canaman, Camarines Sur, in Panganiban Drive, Naga City, and in Rawis, Legazpi City, administered by Jimenez siblings Dante, Merle, Gabriel, Marilissa and Evita.

Swimming competitions.

To keep body attuned to the mind, Mariners partners with the Philippine Swimming League (PSL) in the 1st Commodore Jaime C. Jimenez, Sr. Swim Meet in MPCF-Legazpi on March 22nd.

PSL is the national sports association for swimming of the Federation of the School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP), it is also their 55th Leg Series.

The school hosts the one-day event which features swimmers from 6-under, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-17 and 18 over, competing at the newly-built school training pool.

An outstanding product is MPCF Midshipman Jifrey Azor, winning bronze, silver and gold in local and international swimming competitions. Notable is the swimfest in Bangkok, Thailand last December 2013 and Cape Town, South Africa in February, this year.

Global Library.

The institution dedicates the launching of the Mariners

AT 40 MARINERS GETS STRONGER

1st Commodore Jaime C. Jimenez, Sr. Swim Meet

MARINO WORLD 19

Library for Safe Seafaring (L4SS) in MPCF-Canaman to Co-founder and Chairperson Emeritus Eliza Lazaro Jimenez who just celebrated her birthday June 14th.

L4SS is a grant from the Amsterdam-based Elsevier Foundation. Mariners is the only recipient maritime institution in the whole of Southeast Asia.

L4SS connects students, faculty, and stakeholders to other partner-libraries in the world thereby making the researchers’ quest easier, wider and more effective.

The project enhances the MPCF library, updated with maritime publications and internet-linked computers as continuing learning facility easily accessible (even when current students are already onboard ocean-going vessels).

L4SS covers a wide range of categories under technology, science, health and issues of family, society and culture. The learning materials focus on promoting awareness, aiding learning and building capacity on maritime safety.

JCJ Series.

Another innovative effort is MPCF’s regular forum Mainstreaming Maritime: the JCJ Series, held at the Manila Yacht Club on June 25th, Day of the Seafarers.

Key speakers are CHEd Commissioner Cynthia Rose Bautista and MARINA SCTW Deputy Executive Director Jabeth Dacanay. Also contributing are Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) President Elizabeth Salabas

and Association of Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI) President Fred Haboc.

Maritime stakeholders and representatives from the US Embassy participated.

The discussions focused on the theme “EMSA: Response of Maritime Schools and Training Centers.”

Radio program.

Last June 5th, MPCF launches its own “Buhay Marinero,” radio program over Veritas Radio and TV.

The program airs every Thursday, 11am to 12nn with livestreaming via www.veritaslegazpi.com/radyo.

Anchoring the program are MPCF-Legazpi’s media relations officer Steven James Diño and Mariners System’s corporate public affairs officer Elmer Abad.

Education

Honoring Dona Eliza Lazaro Jimenez, Emeritus The L4SS Global Library

MARINO WORLD20

Feature

“A most unique and timely service by a high-caliber team.”

This appears to be the common reaction of stakeholders when introduced at a forum to the consulting offering of CVNS Educational Consultancy Services (CVNS).

The first CVNS forum, Maritime Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) Design and Implementation: Policy Considerations, Challenges and Barriers, that was held August 1st at the Bayview Hotel, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

CVNS is a professional organization composed of seasoned technical experts in various fields, advocating for the upliftment of maritime education in the country.

In pursuing its goal, CVNS refers to memorandum orders by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd):

• CMO No. 46, Series 0f 2012

“Advising the shift to learning competency-based policies, standards and guidelinesand outcomes-based quality assurance in higher education programs”;

• CMO Nos. 13 & 14, Series of 2013

“Defining the alignment of maritime undergraduate degree programs to national academic requirements, industry needs and international standards for maritime education and training as set by the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code”;

• CMO Nos. 31 & 32, Series of 2013

“Stating that the instructional approach for the BSMT and BSMarE programs shall be learner-centered and

outcomes-based to prepare students for a career at sea and to effectively carry out the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an Officer-In-Charge of a navigational watch and an Officer-In-Charge of an engine watch”.

• CMO No. 37, Series of 2012

“Providing the policies, standards and guidelines for all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) offering engineering programs to work towards establishing an Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) System and promoting the capacity-building of concerned HEIs to plan for the needed infrastructure and continuing quality improvement program in support of the OBE system.

In order to ensure the sustainable delivery of an OBE system in the concerned HEIs, an institutional framework with the following shall be in place for each program offering:

Educational Consultancy ServicesCVNSCVNS Pres. Maambong

MARINO WORLD 21

1. Vision, Mission and Goal/s (VMG)

2. Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

3. Program Outcomes (POs)

4. Matrix of Courses with Program Outcomes (Curriculum Map)

5. Outcomes-Based Teaching and Learning Delivery Process (OBTL)

6. Program Assessment and Evaluation Process

7. Continuing Quality Improvement Program (CQI)”

CVNS offers to assist a Maritime Higher Education Institution (MHEI) in developing an Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) System – compliant curriculum/curricula for its maritime degree program/s and in revising the course syllabi for each degree program

in accordance with the policies of CHEd and the competencies of the STCW Code.

CVNS resource persons and mentors shall coach the MHEI select administrative officials and all maritime faculty (of both Professional and GE courses) in:

1. Developing a curriculum ( for each of the maritime degree programs) that implements the OBE System;

2. Aligning professional courses with the policies of CMO Nos. 13 & 31 and 14 & 32 s2013 and the STCW Code;

3. Aligning GE courses with the policies of CMO No. 13 & 31

and 14 & 32 s2013 and the STCW Code;

4. Revising the Professional and GE course syllabi (for each of the maritime degree programs) and designing the accompanying course maps within the OBE framework, that is compliant to CMO No. 37 s2012; and

5. Applying the principle of Continuous Quality Improvement on the assessment and evaluation of student performance.

CVNS is headed by Dr. Christopher P. Maambong, former Co-Chairman of the CHEd Technical Panel & Technical Committee for Marine Engineering and Chairman of the Board of Marine Engineer Officers of the Professional Regulation Commission.

CVNS is a professional organization composed of seasoned technical experts in various fields, advocating for the upliftment

of maritime education in the country.

CVNS Team and guests

MARINO WORLD22

“A silver anniversary is a celebration of love, partnership, tolerance and tenacity,” says Capt. Arsenio Padilla, EVP of the Association for Maritime Training Centers (PAMTCI).

The merchant marine captain was referring to MARSAMAN 25th Anniversary where he is the keynote speaker. Padilla is also VP of Exact Excellence and Competency Training Center, Marsaman’s major partner for the training of its seafarers.

Marsaman officers and staff were joined by their family, friends and partners in the industry in celebrating its 25th year operations.

President and GM Antonietta Acenas-Mabelo leads the celebrations though she is recovering from recent surgery.

“It is a privilege and honor for me and my family to be here … with the group of people who have contributed important roles in the success and fruitful journeys of Marsaman for two

and a half decades,” she shared in a message delivered by her husband.

She underscores, “ups and downs are normal for any business…but despite the obstacles and challenges Marsaman… continue its growth and development…through simple and sincere ways of service.”

Flashback.

MMAI is founded by Capt. Emmanouil Malis and Mrs. Regina Lima.

Ms. Teresita Sibug, Asst. GM, shares the yesteryears she being one of the pioneers: “…indeed it’s always my great pride and honor serving this

MARSAMAN SILVER GLITTERS

Honors for Padilla from Lakshnan and Mabelo

MARINO WORLD 23

company for 25 fruitful years. I have always been a witness how Marsaman Manning Agency continues to grow in the industry by providing our seafarers proper incentives and ultimately enhanced service ...

From the past to present I can say that today our company is now big enough as

evidenced by the number of crew and employees from four employees.”

MMAI began operations on June 28, 1989 at J.P. Rizal, Makati City. In 1995, it transferred to E. Rodriguez, Quezon City.

Since 2007 until now, MMAI holds

office at the ground floor of T.M. Kalaw Center, 667 Kalaw Street, Ermita, Manila.

Today Marsaman principals include Marmaras Navigation, Delta Tanker, Paschal Holdings Golden Alpha Marine and Spartacus Navigation.

The company deploys hundreds of seafarers on 45 international vessels and is DNV ISO 9001-2008 certified.

“Now, with Capt. Lakshnan Krisnan (owner’s representative) and Ma’am Tonet (Mrs. Mabelo), we are in good hands for another 25 years,” declares Ms. Sibug.

Recognition and fun.

Loyal staff and outstanding seafarers were recognized and given awards.

The evening was filled with sumptuous food, exciting games, and lively entertainment. On top of the blazing live band, even cadets showcase talents in the sing-and-dance competitions.

Manning

Marsaman Core

Honors for Sibug

MARINO WORLD24

“The measure is unrealistic,” declares Henry J. Schumacher, director of the European Chamber of the Philippines.

Schumacher refers to the order transferring overstaying containers in Customs yards either to Subic or Batangas ports at owners’ costs. This is to fast-track Manila port congestion triggered by a truck ban on city streets by the Manila local government.

He explains, “The issue is access to the ports and availability of trucks. It is unlikely that the congestion can be resolved before the end of the year…”

While he did not comment on actions by authorities to maximize time, area, and usage of streets, Schumacher categorically mentions one of the issues is the franchise for trucks-for-hire: “This needs to be abolished.”

Truckers have earlier balked they are

losing revenues and spending more due the low turn-around of cargo because of gridlock traffic brought about by the truck ban.

A senior adviser of the American Chamber here (AmCham) was more circumspect and quoted: “Manila roads are too small… Batangas and Subic should be expanded. Until then, we will suffer congestions as exports and imports increase with high GDP (gross domestic product).”

Lags behind.

The Philippines remains behind Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia and Thailand as potential expansion site for American business.

Rising labor costs, infrastructure and ease of moving products through Customs have been tagged as barriers to investment in the country.

These are concerns highlighted in the latest survey by US chambers in Southeast Asia, The ASEAN Business Outlook Survey 2015. It was conducted by the US Chamber of Commerce and American business chambers in ASEAN economies from May 5 to June 5, this year.

The results mirror that of 2014 with the Philippines staying ahead of Cambodia, Singapore, Laos and Brunei Darussalam.

The Philippines also fared slightly better in terms of financing constraints, scoring 16% and lesser than the 19% of ASEAN competitors.

A major roadblock is decreasing low-cost labor, decreasing 69% to last year’s 74%. It could partly be explained by the increase in holidays from 16 (2013) to 19 under the current administration.

by Ligaya Caban

Ports

EUROPEANS WARY ON DECONGEST POLICY

MARITIMA file photo

MARINO WORLD 25

TIMONEL FOR TSUNEISHI

On Its 20th Anniversary The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) gave Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) (THICI) the Timonel Award for Outstanding Maritime Entity during MARINA’s 40th Founding anniversary June 2nd celebrated at The Palacio de Maynila, Malate, Manila.

THICI bagged the honor as “outstanding maritime entity,” recognizing its exemplary achievements and remarkable contribution in the maritime industry for the last 10 years, a major impact of national, and international significance.

In behalf of THICI President Hitoshi Kono, THICI Engr. Charlie Ombao, with Business Group senior staff Lady Fer Villaceran received the award from the MARINA Administrator Dr. Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., DOTC Undersecretaries Julianito Bucayan Jr. and Edwin R. Lopez.

As a major contributor in the growth of the Philippine shipbuilding industry, THICI already delivered 182 ships since inception in 1994. Its first ship, M/V Sea Amelita, was named after the first lady of then President Fidel Ramos.

The Philippines now ranks fourth largest shipbuilding hub in the world.

THICI is celebrating its 20th year in the Philippines. It occupies 149.7 hectares in Balamban, Cebu and currently employs 13,000 including subcontractors and affiliate companies.

Government

THICI Ombao and Villaceran accept the award from MARINA Admin. Mejia and DOTC Usecs Bucayan and Lopez

KGJS Fleet Management Manila, Incorporatedcongratulates MARINA on it's 40th foundinganniversary with a theme “Maritime Philippines:We Move the World!”.

May your organization continue to demonstratewisdom and leadership in guiding the Philippinestowards excellence in the global ship manningindustry .

6th Floor Rufino Plaza Bldg. 6784 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street Legaspi Village, Makati City, Philippines 1200Tel No. 9763330 Fax 7514494Website: www.kgjs.ph

MARINO WORLD26

Teaming on “Gearing Towards Stronger Relationships,” Mideast Shipmanagement (Mideast) and Centennial Transmarine (CTI) sign an agreement for stronger ties.

In simple ceremonies August 12th at the Hyatt Hotel-Manila, Mideast President Robert Houston and CTI President Eduardo Jabla formally sealed the memorandum of agreement.

Witnesses are Mideast Fleet Personnel Manager Mark Buchanan, CTI Chairman Mercedes Gatmaitan, COO Jeffrey Solon and Atty. Jun Espinosa, director and legal counsel.

Organization.

Houston underscores the MOA as “clean and simple.”

“The same, nothing change. We have taken all the staff, the Vela staff, crew, all come in to CTI under our MOA. Just basically under one group. Basically the same,” explains Houston.

Mideast fleets are oil/product/chemical tankers, cargo, containers, bulk carriers, VLCCs and ROROs.

Mideast is the in-house ship manager of the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) which owns a fleet of 21 chemical carriers, 17 VLCCs, 6 RORO containers and 5 bulkers through its subsidiary, the National Chemical Carriers (NCC) in partnership with SABIC and has become one of the largest companies of the world in this field.

Recently, Mideast acquires 10 ships from Vela (shipping arm of Saudi Aramco), with another ten by November. By then, CTI will be deploying about 1,200 crew on 70 Mideast vessels.

Challenge.

CTI’s Jabla confirms they waited for this development with Vela for almost a year and a half, and “... finally it’s here, thank you.”

But Jabla’s joy is never amiss as he poses a challenge to CTI employees, “… our excitement is tempered by the realization that there’s a huge challenge and responsibility, because just as the opportunity was given can easily be taken away if we fail, if we falter, if we

fall short of their expectation.

(T)he future of this business relationship is in our hands, your hands, and hopefully with sincere commitment, honest, professional, dedication, and with God’s help, we will not fail.”

He then proposes a toast for the success of the CTI-Mideast partnership.

Future.

Currently, Mideast is sponsoring cadets from three schools: John B. Lacson Maritime Academy, University of Cebu and Davao Merchant Marine Academy.

Houston recalls, “When we first came here, the ambition was to get more and more senior officers from the Philippines. We now got five ships with Filipino masters and chief engineers…a lot more junior officers that are going to become senior officers.

We’ve got a lot of cadets, the aptitude is changing in the Philippines…the real focus is on the cadets. Young guys who want to be senior officers.”

MANNING

The Mideast-CTI TeamSTRONGER COMMITMENT

MARINO WORLD 27

I am writing this paper at a time when there is so much misunderstanding about certificates and documents that a seafarer is expected to have and carry. I hope this will make things clear.

Seafarers’ Identity Document

Issued in compliance with ILO Convention No. 185 on Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised) 2003. This has replaced old identity document Convention Number 108 of 1958. This is supposed to be issued by the authority of seafarer’s state of nationality. It calls up on the member states to apply the same stringent measures as applied for issue of an international passport but does not call it as equivalent to or replacement of a passport.

Seaman’s Book or Seafarer’s Record Book (SRB) or Discharge Book or Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)

They all relate to the same thing. It originates from ILO Convention No. 22 of 1926 on the subject of Article of Agreement that entered into force in 1928. Article 5 of that Convention requires every seafarer to be issued with such document that can show his/ her period of service with relevant capacity on a particular ship. It clearly forbids writing anything about his/ her ability, conduct or character.

Apparently this document shows in a

comprehensive manner services performed by the seafarer on different ships. It summarizes his/her experience and is a useful reference for further employment. Some time it is also used to substantiate mandatory requirement of sea-service for taking higher grade of examinations.

This book is also normally issued by the authority of the State the seafarer belongs to. However, if s/he serves on foreign flag ship, the Flag State may also issue this Book.

This document is by no means a travel document though sometime with other supporting documents it has been accepted for travel purpose.

Seafarer’s Certificate of Medical Fitness

Issued under MLC-2006 and regulation I/9 of the STCW-78 Convention as amended. It is issued by medical practitioner approved by the Administration and is valid for two years from the date of issue. Certificate for Color Vision remains valid for six years.

Certificate of Competency

Officers including master shall have certificate of competency showing capacity and limitations with period of validity. If the COC is not issued by the Flag State then there shall be a recognition endorsement from the Flag State.

Ratings’ certificates

Ratings may have similar certificates (certificate of qualification or certificate of proficiency) for capacities identified in the STCW Convention. Ratings certificates do not require a recognition endorsement from Flag State.

Other supporting training documents

Officers and ratings obtain quite a number of ancillary training documents (different for different categories) in the process of obtaining the main certificate for the

identified capacity. They remain with the seafarer concerned:

1.Basic (Safety) Training (BT); 2. Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft (CPSC); 3. Advanced Fire-fighting (AFF); 4. Medical First-Aid (MFA); 5. Security Familiarization (SF); 6. Proficiency in Medical Care (PMC); 7.Tanker Training – Basic/ Advanced – Oil/ Chemical/ Gas; 8. Training for service on Passenger Ships; 9. Radar – ARPA/ Bridge Resource Management (BRM) / ECDIS etc.

For the convenience of inspection by PSC, the certificates of various capacities and medical fitness may be left with master or Duty Officer. Otherwise seafarer is the custodian of all his/ her document. Any certificate/document kept with the master must be returned to the seafarer when s/he is leaving the ship after being signed off.

Article of Agreement/Crew Agreement

It is derived from ILO Convention No. 22. This remains on the ship (not a document belonging to the seafarer) as an evidence that the relevant seafarer is genuinely employed on the ship.

International travel

International Passport (with Visa where so necessary) is the recognized travel document. Passport may not be necessary to serve on a ship but for the purpose of joining and repatriation, the seafarer may have to present passport and visa like any other air passenger.

Shore leave

Seafarers duly signed on the Article of Agreement, duly listed in the Crew List and being in possession of SID (ILO Convention-185) should be given normal shore leave during the vessel’s stay in port without the necessity of separate visa.

Editor’s Note. Our international columnist welcomes relevant maritime questions filed through [email protected]

F R Chowdhury is a former Director General of Shipping, Bangladesh. He is also an Ex-Deputy Chief Examiner of UK-MCA, Maritime Administrator of Gibraltar and Maritime Adviser to GOP, Kingdom of Bahrain.

IMPORTANT SEAFARER DOCUMENTS

Opinion

by F.R. Chowdhury

MARINO WORLD28

The assistance to be provided by the financial security system shall be: (1) granted promptly upon request made by or on behalf of the seafarer concerned as long as supported by the necessary justification of entitlement, i.e., proof of abandonment as defined under paragraph 2; (2) sufficient to cover the following:

(a) outstanding wages and other entitlements due from the shipowner to the seafarer under their employment agreement, the relevant collective bargaining agreement or the national law of the flag State, limited to four months of any such outstanding wages and four months of any such outstanding entitlements;

(b) all expenses reasonably incurred by the seafarer, including the cost of repatriation (travel travel by appropriate and expeditious means, normally by air, and include provision for food and accommodation of the seafarers from the time of leaving the ship until arrival at the seafarer’s home, necessary medical care, passage and transport of personal effects and any other reasonable costs or charges arising from the abandonment); and

(c) the cost of necessary maintenance and support from the act or omission

constituting abandonment until the seafarer’s arrival at home.

Mauritius suggested that the phrase “granted promptly upon request” and the mechanism to be adopted should be specified. Thailand said that the authorized body to which the request for assistance from the financial security system is to be submitted, and the relevant information and supporting documents that must accompany the request, should be specified. Honduras suggested that the assistance to be provided should also cover leave entitlement.

Germany suggested that Members should be permitted to introduce “socially acceptable” ceilings on the coverage of outstanding wages and to adopt measures to prevent abuse. Mauritius suggested that the reasonable expenses to be covered by the assistance should be incurred during abandonment.

Standard A2.5.2, Pars. 11, 12 and 13

Paragraph 11 grants the provider of insurance or other financial security the right, up to the amount it has paid, to acquire by subrogation, assignment or otherwise, the rights which the seafarer would have enjoyed while paragraph 12 declares that the provisions in the standard shall not prejudice the right of recourse of the insurer or provider of financial security against third parties.

Paragraph 13 clarifies that the provisions in the Standard are not intended to be exclusive or to prejudice any other rights, claims or remedies that may also be available to compensate seafarers who are abandoned.

Once the above amendments come into force, abandonment may no longer be seen as a viable business decision by shipowners. However, their approval and coming into force will still take a while. Though the manner by which the subject amendments can be made, i.e., as outlined in Article XV of the Convention, is considered as the simplified procedure, the steps laid down in Article XV readily give the idea of the time required for the amendment to come into force.

Under Article XV of the Convention, the amendment process involves:

1. An amendment is PROPOSED to the Director General of the ILO by any of the following:

a. The government of any Member of the ILO, provided it has been proposed, or supported by, at least five governments of Members that have ratified the MLC, 2006, or by the group of Shipowner or Seafarer representatives who have been appointed to the Special Tripartite Committee;

b. The group of Shipowner representatives who have been appointed to the Committee; or

by Atty. Ma. Cristina Ramos-Beltran

Atty. Beltran is a practising lawyer and Counsellor-At-Law with the Ramos and Ramos law offices. She holds a Masters of Law from Erasmus U of Rotterdam, the Netherland on top of degrees from Arellano U and UP-Diliman. Ms. Cristina is inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Pi Gamma Mu Intl Honor Society (Social Science- Bulacan State U). Also a full-pledged Rotarian.

WHEN CAN AMENDMENTS TAKE EFFECT

Conclusion of a Two-Part AnalysisOn the Amendment to MLC 2006

MARINO WORLD 29

Opinion

c. The group of Seafarer representatives who have been appointed to the Committee.

2. Upon verification that the proposal has met the requirements above (as to who will file the proposed amendment), the Director General of ILO communicates the proposal (together with any comments or suggestions) to all Members of the ILO, with an invitation to them to submit their observations or suggestions concerning the proposal within a period of six (6) months or such other period prescribed by the Governing Body. Such period shall not be less than three (3) months nor more than nine (9) months. In the subject amendments, communication of the proposal to the Members of the ILO was made through a letter dated October 4, 2013.

3. At the end of the period mentioned above, the proposal, together with a summary of any observations or suggestions made by the Members of the ILO, is transmitted to the Committee for consideration at a meeting. An amendment shall be considered adopted by the Committee if:

(a) at least half the governments of Members that have ratified the MLC, 2006 are represented in the meeting at which the proposal is considered; and

(b) a majority of at least two-thirds of the Committee members vote in favor of the amendment; and

(c) this majority comprises the votes in favor of at least half the government voting power, half the Shipowner voting power and half the Seafarer voting power of the Committee members registered at the meeting when the proposal is put to vote.

The subject amendments were adopted by a vote of in favor by the required majority of at least two-thirds in April 2014.

4. The ADOPTED amendments shall be submitted to the next session of the Conference for approval. An approval requires a majority of two-thirds of the votes cast by the delegates present. If the required majority is not obtained, the proposed amendment shall be referred back to the Committee for reconsideration (should the Committee wish);

The next session of the Conference will be held in Geneva on May 28 to June 12, 2014. Based on the tentative plan of work for the next session of the Conference, approval of the amendments will be considered on June 9, 2014.

5. If the amendments are APPROVED by the Conference, the Director General of the ILO shall notify all Members whose ratifications to the MLC, 2006 were registered before the date the amendments were approved by the Conference (the ratifying Members). The notification shall

contain a reference to Article XV of MLC, 2006 and shall prescribe the period for the communication of any formal disagreement. The period to communicate any formal disagreement shall be two (2) years from the date of notification unless a different period is set by the Conference and in no case that such period be less than one year. A copy of the notification shall be communicated to the other Members for their information.

6. The amendments approved by the Conference is deemed to have been ACCEPTED unless by the end of the prescribed period (2 years), formal expressions of disagreement is received by the Director General of the ILO from more than 40% of the Member which have ratified MLC, 2006 and which represent not less than 40% of the gross tonnage of ships of the ratifying Members.

7. Amendments which are deemed ACCEPTED shall come into force within six (6) months after the end of the prescribed period.

Thus, if the amendments would be approved by the Conference in June 2014, the same would be deemed ACCEPTED two (2) years thereafter or in June 2016, and they shall come into force in December 2016.

Editor’s Note: Amendments approved June 2014.

Once the above amendments come into force, abandonment may no longer be seen as a viable business decision by shipowners.

However, their approval and coming into force will still take a while.

MARINO WORLD30

The Integrated Seafarers (ISP) gave initial broadcast for its Gabay ng Pamilyang Marino (GPM or Guide of Seafarer Families) last September 6th.

GPM was aired over DZIQ Radyo Inquirer, 990 AM, at 4:30pm with global live streaming via www.ustream.tv/dziq.

Capt. Jess Morales, ISP President, himself is the prime host, with co-host Ms. Ariane Langit, a seafarer’s daughter and entrepreneur.

Initial guests of the regular Saturday program were Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Chief Rebecca Calzado and former DoLE Secretary Marianito Roque.

Greetings.

MARINA Administrator Max Mejia, Jr. pitched in personal greetings on-line,

solidifying the credibility of the radio talkshow even at this early stage.

Mejia was joined in his greetings by “bunkmates”of Morales, Senators Allan Peter Cayetano and Sonny Angara who are now honorary members of PMMA Alumni association which Morales also heads.

Reintegration.

Morales says ISP primarily aims to guide seafarers on their seafaring career, until their re-integration into local society .

He underscores ISP is a brotherhood association promoting payback concept, which is helping each other and contributing to the common good.

OWWA Chief Calzado announces the government’s continuing programs for the reintegration of the overseas Filipino workers, including the seafarers.

In turn, Secretary Roque notes seafarers should plan on how they can be reintegrated after a career on-board.

Cooperative.

Capt. Morales announces the plan for ISP multi-purpose cooperative, the bonding together of seafarers for shared benefits and better impact on the host community in various disciplines like finance, entrepreneurship, social responsibilities and family values.

Seminars.

Ms. Langit, as co-host, announces the next free seminar on personal financial management on September 26th. This is every last Friday of the month on a first-come basis for ISP members.

Winter Crew and Buss Shipping after the officers conference with principals and PAL Maritime management.

Feature

MORALES LAUNCHES ISP RADIO

Guests Calzado and Roque

Hosts Morales and Langit

MARINO WORLD 31

From the Editors of

Marino World

Published by [email protected]

• Twice a month, Metro

• Easy reading, Taglish

• Maritime and tidbits

•

In format ive . Enterta in ing.

FREE! ! !

MARINO WORLD32

SHIPPING BODIES ISSUE EBOLA VIRUS ADVICE

MARINO WORLD 33

Three global shipping organizations issued guidance on the risks to crews calling in countries affected by the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The ICS (International Chamber of Shipping), IMEC (International Maritime Employers’ Council), and the ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) share these urgent advice:

1. The Master should ensure that the crew are aware of the risks, how the virus can be spread and how to reduce the risk.

2. Ensure no unauthorized personnel board the vessel while in port per ISPS requirements.

3. The Master should be careful in granting any shore leave in impacted ports.

4. The shipowner/operator should avoid making crew changes in the ports of an affected country.

5. After departure the crew should be aware of the symptoms and report any immediately to medical care.

The advice is supplemented with information from the World Health Organization (WHO) on the virus (www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs103/en)

A spokesperson for the three organisations comments, “Everyone is deeply concerned for those suffering from the Ebola epidemic and supportive of a coordinated world response to help them. We particularly applaud all those

medical staff who are risking their lives to help.”

RISK OF EBOLA VIRUS.

WHO issued these to assist in the education of on-board personnel:

Ebola is introduced into the human population through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodilyfluidsofinfectedanimals.InAfrica, infection has been through the handling of infected chimpanzees, gorillas, fruit bats, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines found ill or dead or in the rainforest.

Ebola then spreads in the community through human-to-human transmission, with infection resulting from direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions, organsorotherbodilyfluidsofinfectedpeople, and indirect contact with environments contaminated. Mourners with direct contact with the body of the deceased may also transmit Ebola. Men who have recovered from the disease can still transmit the virus through their semen for up to 7 weeks after recovery from illness.

Ebola is not spread through the air.

Health-care workers have frequently been infected while treating patients due to close contact with patients when control precautions are not strictly practiced.

Among workers in contact with monkeys or pigs infected with Reston ebolavirus, several infections have

been documented in people who were clinically asymptomatic. Thus, RESTV appears less capable of causing disease in humans than other Ebola species.

But the only available evidence comes from healthy adult males. It would be premature to extrapolate the health effects of the virus to all population groups, such as immuno-compromised persons, persons with underlying medical conditions, pregnant women and children. More studies of RESTV are neededbeforedefinitiveconclusionscanbe drawn about the pathogenicity and virulence of this virus in humans.

Signs and symptoms

EVD is a severe acute viral illness often characterized by the sudden onset of fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. This is followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding.

Laboratoryfindingsincludelowwhiteblood cell and platelet counts and elevated liver enzymes.

People are infectious as long as their blood and secretions contain the virus. Ebola virus was isolated from semen 61 days after onset of illness in a man who was infected in a laboratory.

The incubation period, that is the time interval from infection with the virus to onset of symptoms, is 2 to 21 days.

Ebola is introduced into the human population through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected animals.

Feature

MARINO WORLD34 MARINO WORLD34

The Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) Cadet Program

bagged the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association (PMMAAAI) Polaris Maritime Award.

It was formalized August 22nd at the PMMAAI 45th Anniversary and Fellowship Night held at Palacio de Maynila, Manila.

PMMAAAI President Gaudencio “Jess” Morales and PMMA President Richard U. Ritual led the awarding ceremonies. Capt. Erik Freberg Blom, NTC-M’s Managing Director, accepted the award for the Norwegian association.

A posthumous award was given for Capt. Gregorio S. Oca, known for many

legacies and contribution to maritime trade unionism. Cmdr. Romulo Guerrero was also cited for exemplary dedication during his teaching years at the PMMA.

The Polaris Star Maritime award honors individuals, companies and organization which have major contribution to the development of Philippine maritime industry.

PMMA is one of the three original maritime schools selected by NSA as beneficiary of then NIS Class Project in 1993. In 2007, NSA took in 124 scholars; almost half of the first year enrollees of PMMA.

Since inception in 1993, 501 cadets were subscribed with PMMA and 71 scholars are currently under the program.

Together with NTC-M, PMMA maintains a strong cooperation for quality assurance, technical support, faculty and institutional development, stronger ties with NSA members and principals and enhancement of NSA cadets education, training and competence.

Another peak of the fellowship night was the adoption of two honorary alumni members: Capt. Roy Joseph Daigle Jr. for Batch ‘77 and Senator Allan Peter S. Cayetano for Batch ‘90.

Feature

From left : PMMAAAI President Jess Morales, Dr. Conrado Oca (for Capt. Gregorio Oca), Ms. Margie Guerrero-Malapas (for Cmdr. Romulo Guerrero) , Capt . Erik Blom for NSA and PMMA President Richard Ritual.

NSA BAGS 2014 POLARIS AWARD

MARINO WORLD 35