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VOLUME XI NO. 2 -A ISSN 1908-0972
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1st Quarter 2016
MARINO WORLD
WORLD
MARINO
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MARINO WORLD
Shipping
1ST NORWAY MARITIME CONFERENCE
Education
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR VOICES CONCERNS
Cover Story
OSM 25 YEARS
A CELEBRATION OF FIL-NOR TIES
Policy
OCEANS OFFER OPPORTUNITIES
Training
NTC-M NEW HOME
US$8 €12 ¥200
VOLUME XI NO. 2 -A ISSN 1908-0972
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PHP120
1st Quarter 2016
Content
ABOUT THE COVER
MARINO WORLD
2016-02osm_MW.indd 1
1
22/03/2016 3:32 PM
Layout by: Jhon Henson Ong
Don and Bjorn, team-up for decades
to a partnership of families. Photo
from memorabilia, OSM Maritime
Services Loyalty Awards Night,
November 10, 2007 at the Sofitel,
Metro Manila.
EDITORIAL BOARD
Publisher
Editorial Consultant
Lyn Bacani
Creative Director
B. Cortes Lagac
Content Critique
Commo. Dante Jimenez
Eva Tan
Jhon Henson Ong
Legal Counsel
Atty. Manuel Obedoza Jr.
News and Feature Writers
Coca H. Strobar
Ligaya Caban
Contributors
Ms. Merle San Pedro RAdm. Adonis Donato
Atty. Cristina Beltran
International Contributors
F R Chowdhury
Mark Millar
Special Projects Manager
Gel Miranda
Account Executive
Karen Mainar
Richard Teo
Visayas Correspondent
Boy Ilano
Circulation Assistant
Joana Marie Tud
EDITORIAL OFFICE
1732 Modesto St., Malate, Manila, Philippines
marinoworldpublication@gmail.com
Tel. / Fax
(632) 521-3633
Mobile
(63) 906-491-2777
Published by Bacani & Associates Media Services Co. (BASMS)
www.marinoworld.com.ph
Publisher’s Note
WIN WIN: PHIL-NORWAY MARITIME
Bilateral relations between the
Philippines and Norway started in 1948,
the maritime aspect emerging as the
most important. Each State has the
strength the other needed: Norway, the
business and the capital; the Philippines,
the skills and the bargain.
Most things in life are relative, the same
act impacts differently between the
giver and the receiver. But for deeper
philosophical gleanings on cause-andeffect, the reason is less important than
the result.
So it is with Phil-Norway partnering.
Norway is merely shopping for bargains
to make her ships more competitive
in the world market. Philippine labor
hankered on the manna of reliable,
decent and high-paying jobs (at a time of
rising unemployment).
What could have been exploitative
became mutually beneficial --- best
workers for lesser dollars; great careers on
better wages. All platitudes (or expletives)
are just babble if results do not enrich
coffers, skills, and circumstance of those
involved.
This illustrates giving more is not charity
but wise investment. More so on human
resources as no one can quantify returns
from well-trained, better-initiated crew.
Today, the new word for conquest is
cooperation, colonialism negotiated on
MOUs and MOAs, agreed on treaties and
Conventions. No captives, no surrender,
but all survive coming from the
bargaining table. Ideally, anyway.
In the affairs of business, there is
romance, no marriage but with divorce.
For as long as profits register, there
is syndication, consortiums. When
things turn red, there is divorce (read,
financial parachutes as in forced options,
takeovers, downsizing, the likes).
The scouts and proconsuls of old are
now grants and soft loans to actually
position strength over weakness, or max
on opportunity. Yes, even creamed with
bleeding hearts or sparkling optimism.
This is not being callous, just regular
business hours.
But let us see the trees as we look at
the forest. Phil-Norway relationship
has been through thick and thin, still
together in crisis after being pampered
by prosperous years.
The Norwegian Training Center-Manila
(NTC-M) has marked its silver year with
a US$4-million simulator complete with
its integrated system, the first in the
Philippines.
The Norwegian Shipowners’ Association
(NSA) Philippines Cadet Program is the
most promising on the wings of the
Association of Shipowners’ Training and
Education Project (ASO-ATEP) to develop
the young into competent seafarers
through the best maritime education on
scholarship grants.
The Norway Asia Business Summit and
the First Norway Maritime Conference are
solid examples of commitment to initiate
and be part of defining moves. Fact is,
there are other potentials untapped while
offshore is reeling.
As Norwegian Ambassador Forner
points, their technologies are applicable
to other ventures like construction and
infra, windmills and energy, seafood and
aquaculture, and on. He points out about
2% of what people eat come from water.
Keep this natural resource clean and the
Philippines can replicate Norway as the
world’s top exporter of seafood next to
China. Norway started with just small
fishing boats and the salmon, brought to
the table fresh and healthy.
But as we look at potentials, we must not
ignore that no State can be complacent
with any of its laurels. Japan has taken
a security risk by allowing foreign crew
to dominate its merchant marine fleet.
But she incessantly pits India with the
Philippines to compete in loyalty, as a
safety net.
European countries open doors to
Philippine sailors while funding Vietnam,
Thailand and Myanmar develop their
maritime skills. Nigeria is aggressive, so
are troubled African states, foremost to
wean from piracy and crime. Back-up
manpower pools for shipowners, if you
may.
Nothing insidious on these. Just pun in
not letting the right hand know what the
left is doing. Or setting up. Critical are
current results, juice success to the drop
while preparing for alternatives. After all,
anything that stops to grow starts to die.
MARINO WORLD
5
Shipping
1ST NORWAY MARITIME CONFERENCE
FROM THE HEART, BETWEEN THE EYES
Significant even on the beaufort scale
--- Waves of Change. Setting the Course
Together, the theme of the First Norway
Maritime Conference, held last January
28 and 29 at the posh Shangri-La Mactan
Resort, Cebu, Philippines.
A downpour could not scale down
enthusiasm from about 200 delegates
from the Philippines, Norway and Asia;
government officials and regulators,
ship owners and manning agencies,
educational institutions and training
professionals, other interest groups all in
force.
Main organizer is the Royal Norwegian
Embassy–Manila with the Norwegian
Maritime Foundation of the Philippines
and Philippines Norway Business
Council. Cordials were imbibed a
day before, with light banter and
reconnecting, formalities elegantly
European.
But knuckles on hard issues were yet to
bare.
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MARINO WORLD
The opening.
The battery.
Norwegian Ambassador to the
Philippines Erik Førner, gave the
welcome, underscoring that bilateral
relations between the Philippines and
Norway are strong and solid and the
maritime sector remains the most
important.
Ms. Nisha Pillai, a journalist and
previous BBC news anchor, was
moderator as she was in the last Norway
Asia Business Summit. Ms. Pillai deftly
evoked perspectives from the heart that
hit on concerns between the eyes; with
depth that ably channeled interaction
into productive dialogues, albeit some
departures of viewpoints.
“This conference is simply reflecting the
value of the maritime partnership that we
have, and it’s high time,” Forner beams.
In the keynote address, Norwegian
Shipowners’ Association CEO Sturla
Henriksen shared perspectives on
global trends affecting the industry and
where these lead in terms of maritime
opportunities.
“(I)n a world of uncertainties, in a world
of change, there is one thing which I
think can be predicted with substantial
significance, and that is the demand
for maritime services will increase,”
Henriksen believes.
Ms. Pillai navigated well with these
speakers and topics, viz:
•
•
DNB Bank Head of Asia Vidar
Andersen, An Economic Perspective
on the Maritime Industry
Grieg Star Chairperson Elisabeth
Grieg, Not Business As Usual
Likewise, with these presenters:
•
•
Prof. Torger Reve, BI Norwegian
Business School, Strategies for
Competing in the Ocean Industries
CEO Gerardo Borromeo, Philippine
Transmarine Carriers, The
Moderator Pillai with NSA Henriksen,
OSM Olofsen, DFA Olberg, PTC Borromeo
•
•
Norwegian Maritime Authority
Pres. and CEO Dag Schjerven,
Wilhelmsen Maritime Services
Director Birigit Liodden, NorShipping
Competent People Make the Difference
•
•
•
•
CEO Olav Nortun, Thome Group
VP Lene-Camilla Nordlie, Gard
Pres. Conrad Oca, Associated
Marine Officers’ & Seamen’s Union
of the Philippines
Medical Director Glennda Canlas,
Halcyon Marine Healthcare Systems
Crises.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Philippine Challenge: Developing a
Future Maritime Roadmap – In the
Midst of Global Change
Director Kristian Vandermeer, Ben
Line Agencies, Stand Your Ground
Director General Olav Akselsen,
Norwegian Maritime Authority,
Safety at Sea in a Green
Environment
Director Birgit Marie Liodden,
Nor-Shipping, A Digital Revolution
- Environmental Challenges and
Opportunities
CEO Olav Nortun, Thome Group,
Competence Check
VP Lene-Camilla Nordlie,
Gard, The Importance of Crew
Competence to Reduce Claims Risks
VP Stig-Morten Helland, Teekay
Shipping, Innovation in Learning
Business Unit Head Alexander Jose
Javier, Risk Competence of our
Maritime Human Resources
President Adrian Stray, Marine
Benefits Assistance Services
•
•
Commissioner Maria Cynthia
Bautista, Commission on Higher
Education, Future Plans for
Maritime Education in the
Philippines
Administrator Maximo Mejia, Jr.,
Maritime Industry Authority, Will
the Philippines Keep its Position as
the Manning Capital of the World?
There were three major topics with
heavyweight panelists:
How Stormy is the Future
•
•
•
•
CEO Sturla Henriksen, Norwegian
Shipowners’ Association
CEO Gerardo Borromeo, Philippine
Transmarine Carriers
Director General Petter Ølberg,
Department of Foreign Affairs
Managing Director Tommy Olofsen,
OSM Crew Management
Is Technology the Savior?
•
NSA’s Henriksen removed the gloves:
“Uncertainties, and they are now
impacting directly on our industry. In
the offshore industry, obviously, the
massive drop of oil prices. We see layups
going from 0-100 last year in Norwegian
controlled ships, units laid up offshore
vessels in the space of a year. And this
has increased significantly this year,
so this is really a dramatic situation,
going from bad to worse…Now it’s
not sustainable, we’re in for a major
restructure of this industry.”
(Ms. Pillai quipped, “restructure is very
polite way of talking about really painful
things.”)
Henriksen continues, “Ships are being
laid up and people are being laid off.
And this is, of course, a very difficult
challenge, we have to go through it, we
have to so focus on what is possible
to lift us… The macro economic
environment is more uncertain than
we’ve seen it maybe in generations.
The massive drop in oil prices is, of
course, a matter of supply because new
technology has brought trade indeed.
We have Saudi (Arabia) trying to protect
their global market share…Drop of the
oil prices is also reflecting a drop in
commodity prices…”
Director General Olav Akselsen,
MARINO WORLD
7
FROM THE HEART, BETWEEN THE EYES
MARINA Administrator Mejia explains
China.
DNB’s Andersen “Few years ago when
the growth was slightly higher, the
growth was mainly investment driven
and export driven. Export led economy
produced good established containers
around the world and the investment
led growth Go West policy of the
government means huge investments
in infrastructure but also meant a lot of
transportation…commodities up etc.
Today’s approximate 7% GDP (if
it tells you is a correct number), is
driven mainly by financial services, by
education, by technology, by tourism
and health care over which has no real
impact or positive impact to the maritime
industry.
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MARINO WORLD
So for maritime industry 7% today (if it’s
true) is very different from 7% few years
ago.
One Belt One Road policy: The belt
is actually the road and the road is the
sealane. One belt is the land...and road is
the maritime road along the coast, around
Asia. I think we will definitely benefit
but again it’s a grand policy (of Chinese
leader Xi Jinping reincarnating the Silk
Road of Marco Polo that opened China
to the trade of the West).”
This demands so many bilaterals,
agreements with various States and
territories along the route. Anderson sees
the economic and maritime angle will be
on a lot of investments that will create
needs and opportunities: transportation,
labor, new trade routes (as the original
Silk Road is vast: Central Asia, West
Asia, the Middle East and Europe, as
well as a maritime road that links China’s
port facilities with the African coast,
pushing up through the Suez Canal into
the Mediterranean).
Watch out.
Xi Jinping’s dream actually redirects
China’s domestic overcapacity and
capital for regional infrastructure
development to improve trade and
relations with Asean, Central Asian and
European countries.
Small wonder a voice from the audience
warns: “I spent about a decade in
Shanghai, and I have a comment to how
I believe the Chinese may influence
our future. I worked on a daily basis
SHIPPING
with Chinese banks and
investment funds.
(T)hey are preparing to
take advantage of the
downturn in the industry.
For sure they have the
capacity in terms of
capital, they have after a
while also the knowledge
to really invest and we
have seen it in over
the last few years that
take up large chunks of
tonnage…
I think in the next
few years we’ll see
decision makers from
China coming into to
actually take a strong
play in the industry not
only from a banking
perspective but also in
active management and
control…
I think our industry is
not very well prepared
to deal with a Chinese
decision. We don’t know
how to communicate, we
don’t really know what
they want and I think
in terms of preparing
for the future we should keep that in
mind. Because they will be a very, very
serious play.”
Optimism.
Ms. Pillai posits offshore and gas
industry are so important for Norway,
enormous bets for the future. But now
that future is here and not a very happy
one. She asks whether the industry can
just shrink, or business just gonna go
bust?
Henriksen: “Business has gonna go bust.
That has happened already. There will
be companies which will have very hard
time surviving in the coming months
and years. But at the same time Norway
has been a major maritime nation for
200 years, we have survived... global
depressions, global super cycles and
today we are bigger as a maritime nation
than ever.
Now we are facing a challenge and
restructuring in the offshore sector. In
the offshore sector they have also gained
and accumulated experience, competence
and technology which we imbibed
for exploring deep about maritime
opportunities …”
OSM’s Olofsen: ”What we are seeing
right now from OSM is a lot of change is
happening, that’s very much the same
from that happened in 2008… What
we are seeing in the offshore market
segment …where financial institutions
are taking ownerships…a lot of owners
were debt floating…a lot of ships are
floating. I think we’ve seen these things.
I think what we need to realize by
this change in financial institutions is
see shipping differently as well as our
shipowners does.”
Grieg’s Chair Elisabeth shared
insights on how to deal with business
uncertainties in the industry. “Don’t lose
sight of your integrity and principles
during difficult times.”
Partnerships.
Olberg of the Foreign Affairs Ministry
predictably hews on a middle fence:
“We know this will happen, we have
solved international issues together, not
as a government, not as an industry, I
think. Be it terrorism, be it piracy, be it
wars, be it natural disasters as you have
here in the Philippines and others. So
we are in this together and that is the
perspective we have.
He adds government may help with the
framework and the security.
OSM’s Olofsen fully agrees, “…that was
my point before… And our industry
is changing rapidly. This turmoil that
is happening in our industry and I see
the same as you do with the Chinese
investors. I visited some yards, there’s
a lot of vessels lined, newbuildings
that have to be taken and it won’t take
long for the Chinese investors to start
trading new ships…
Whether its Chinese or other
investors… its new people in the
industry and that will disrupt, and we
better be prepared for it.”
Ambassador Forner banters with delegates
MARINO WORLD
9
FROM THE HEART, BETWEEN THE EYES
Light exchanges during a coffee break
Henriksen adds almost a testimonial:
“We consider our relationship with our
Filipinos friends to be a partnership.
We’ll end this together. We consider
you to be an integral part of the
Norwegian maritime community. We
wouldn’t be advanced maritime nation
that we are today without you.
(T)here is one aspect, important to
both the Philippines and Norway. And
that’s how are we able to integrate,
interconnect the practical, operational
experience of our seafarers with a
wider maritime cluster, that is achieved
through new developments, training and
transitional innovations.
And this is also why we are investing
heavily in new training facilities, we are
investing in one of the most advanced
simulators in the world. And that is
heading into the future, so we’ll end this
together.
(A)nd that, I think, is a key and a
challenge to all of us.”
Henriksen also believes government
could help with “stable, predictable and
competitive framework conditions in
an uncertain world.” The shipowners’
man even voices “envy” that we have a
maritime party in our bicameral Congress
(which is Angkla under the PartyList
system in the Lower House).
He reiterates Norwegian approach has
always been professional and long-term.
The Filipino seafarers and their families
have been treated with the respect
they deserve in getting good training,
safe working conditions and decent
salaries. In return, the shipowners have
received loyalty with excellence and
professionalism from the Filipinos.
Challenges.
MARINA Administrator Mejia assures,
“The Philippines shall maintain its
position as the manning capital of the
world - not only to promote our country’s
own self-interest, but also to do our share
in ensuring continued efficiency, safety,
and environmental sustainability while
moving global commerce. With this
comes a commitment to work strictly
within globally set and agreed parameters
of quality.”
CHED Bautista adds a dimension: “Our
dream is that the Philippines become
a center of excellence not just for the
production of ratings but also for the
production of officers.”
Olofsen is honestly pragmatic: “What
10
MARINO WORLD
SHIPPING
Philippines is offering is a cost-effective
solution, very much, that’s been the drive
and also the volume.
I think some of the concerns in the
Philippines, establishing as a very
attractive …when there has been a
gradual of ships or more demands on
competence then there has been more
and more focus on how has the Filipino
infrastructure within education and
training actually work.
(T)he initiatives he (Mejia) has taken
have been impressive in changing the
quality ...the European flag states are
now easing the pressure and recognizing
the efforts…however, the companies and
the managers have a big responsibility
to not just recognize competence (via
the CoC but) …performance, that comes
when you go onboard the vessel start
operating in a right environment.
And if the Filipinos are to be at the top,
many to be trained onboard like in any
other industry, they need to have the
exposure... the opportunity to actually
learn and develop...they will also have to
make mistakes once in a while.”
Norwegian Training Center-Manila
Managing Director Erlend Grimstad,
in closing, delivers the gist in a sweet
concentrate: The key challenge is to
make the right long-term choices whilst
facing immense short-term challenges.
Feedbacks.
With a battery of maritime experts
and corporate moguls, the ballroom
of the Shangri-La morphed into one
dynamic conversation platform. A
delegate comment is worth repeating:
“There’s something distinctive about this
conference compared to other seminars.
I like the fact that the delegates ask
questions rather than giving self-serving
speeches.”
Delegates appreciated the timeliness
and relevance of topics. One delegate
confirms, “The conference is very
educational. The topics are very relevant
and push us to look to new ways
to improve the maritime industry.”
Another adds, “The conference gives us
information about the challenges in the
industry. It’s a great calling not to be laid
back but to move forward.”
Numbers.
owned or controlled vessels at any time,
which benefit both nations. Thousands of
Filipino seafarers receive good training
and decent work; Norwegian companies
employ a world-class workforce for their
ships plying blue waters.
Philippines Norway Business Council
VP Jannicke Steen stresses Norway
and the Philippines share strong
maritime relations. “It is now time to
strengthen this bond. With the many
complex challenges, many shipping
companies need to think differently and
innovatively, and to meet and exchange
ideas and thoughts.
Ambassador Forner confirms the next
conference will be in two years; hence,
regularly every two years. And these
should factor in regaining the usual
for the maritime industry: plus, minus,
multiply. It seems a roulette on financial
gamble. But really, of progressive math
when stripped of vested speculations.
It is the major cog in the chain of
logistics and values; without which
mankind will be marooned in backward
islands of wants and wishes.
Currently, there are more than 25,000
Filipino seafarers onboard Norwegian
www.solvangship.no
A manning and recruitment agency accredited by
POEA with license No. POEA -295-SB-060313R-MLC is presently hiring applicants to man and
operate our modern fleet of LPG vessels sailing
under the Norwegian flag (NIS);
Position:
CHIEF OFFICER
SECOND ENGINEER
ELECTRICIAN
CARGO ENGINEER/GAS ENGINEER
– Preferably with ethylene experience
We have competitive salary package, good rotation
program and high retention rate of officers and
crew in our fleet. We also offer additional fringe
benefits such as;
•
•
•
•
Health Card for our seafarers and family members.
Company retirement package for our loyal crew.
Company sponsored trainings.
Career Development.
For interested applicants you may visit us in our
office located at 4th Floor 1751 Building, Dian Street
Palanan, Makati City 1235 Philippines.
Telephone : +63 (2) 831 65 20
Telefax
: +63 (2) 831 65 19
You may also send your resume at crew.phils@
solvangship.no or contact our designated person;
CAPT. VIRGILIO A. LOPEZ, JR
President
SOLVANG PHILIPPINES, INC.
Telephone : +63 (2) 555 76 22
MARINO WORLD
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MARINO WORLD
Education
preeminence in maritime education to
Dr. Arcelo’s “hard and clever work”,
allowing thousands of Filipinos to
graduate with viable credentials to board
Norwegian vessels.
He also praised Dr. Arcelo for giving
extensive assistance to many
Norwegian companies, for having
promoted in various ways Norwegian
interests in the Philippines.
MARY LOU L. ARCELO, Ph.D.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
VOICES CONCERNS
Neither a son nor a first born, here is a
daughter any parent would be so proud
of --- be it in the pragmatics of living or
in the sensitivities of life: Dr. Mary Lou
L. Arcelo.
She could empty herself in work but
never disregard values; she stands in
the vagaries of business but keeps
essentially private herself and family.
Such may be an enigma to traditional
minds but never a conflict in achieving
her goals, in realizing her objectives for
the school, for the community and for
things that fuel her.
Dr. Arcelo may be semi-retired now
and acts as a Consultant after being
Chairperson and President Emeritus
of the John B. Lacson Foundation,
JBL Foundation Maritime University
(JBLFMU) at Arevalo, Molo and
Bacolod units.
But she is still very much in the flow,
be it pursuing the QUEST (mission
statement) of the JBLFMU system, the
research orientation for the academe’
and the community, the unceasing toil to
be excellent, to be world-class and first
among equals, so to speak.
Year 2011.
Here, a double major was awarded to
the eminent doctor. Firstly, the Juran
honors from the Phil. Society for Quality
for distinguished leadership and quality
management. Secondly, the Royal
Norwegian Order of Merit Cross for
developing maritime relations between
Norway and the Philippines.
The latter is given exclusively to
foreigners who have done outstanding
services in the interest of Norway.
Formalities were held October 14th, at the
Norwegian ambassador’s residence in
Manila attended by select guests.
“For decades you have worked most
efficiently to facilitate and develop a
fruitful and mutually beneficial maritime
cooperation between our two countries,”
beams Norwegian Ambassador Knut
Solem in his welcome speech.
Educating Filipino seafarers.
“You have simply been an extremely
valuable partner for both Norwegian
business and the Embassy,” adds Mr.
Solem.
While thanking Dr. Arcelo and
the Lacson University for years of
cooperation, the Norwegian ambassador
encouraged the school to continue
working to increase the quality of
Philippine maritime education.
Dr. Arcelo agreed, underscoring she is
grateful for the collaboration between
the school and the Norwegian maritime
sector since 1986, and hoping the ties
continue with the years.
Maritime is important in the bilateral
relations of Norway and the Philippines.
About 25,000 Filipino seafarers are
onboard the Norwegian international
fleet.
The award ceremony was attended by the
CEO, Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian,
Administrators Atty. Lorna Gellada, Dr.
Ralph Pador and Capt. Luis Evidente (all
of the JBLFMU Executive Council and
Board of Trustees), Norwegian shipping
and manning company representatives,
Embassy staff.
Seafaring profession is strongly founded
on the fact that majority of global trade
is through the vast oceans, men and ships
work together to improve the world
economy. However, Dr. Arcelo submits
men cannot become seamen without
being educated and trained by a credible
maritime institution.
Ambassador Solem credits the school’s
MARINO WORLD
13
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR VOICES CONCERNS
Q&A.
Marino World probed further into her
mindset, peppered with questions. With
minor edits for brevity but never on
context, here are her responses delivered,
without puss nor hiss but with inborn
sophistication.
JBLFMU HAS EARNED JUST
ABOUT ANY HONOR. ANYTHING
IT HAS YET TO ASPIRE FOR?
Yes, a lot to aspire for such as its
continued aspiration for quality
education and competent cadets based on
the STCW standard.
We continue to improve through Quality
Health Safety and Environment, for
performance excellence, for Total
Quality Management (TQM).
We aspire that our cadets develop
leadership qualities and confidence
through our core values, culture, and
advocacy integrated in the curriculum.
It is expected cadets demonstrate these
in the workplace as they are reflective of
JBLFMU.
ANY PLAN OF NEW CAMPUSES IN
ILOILO, OR EXPANDING PERHAPS
TO MINDANAO OR NATIONWIDE?
No.
(So curt and certain we cringed to have
asked the question - Editor)
HOW IS YOUR PARTNERSHIP WITH
NSA ON CADETSHIP PROGRAM?
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE
PROGRAM TO YOU, WHAT VALUES
ARE INVOLVED?
The partnership is ongoing, the number
of scholars dependent on the subscription
of the shipping companies.
The NSA is important to JBLCF-Bacolod
because we are the only school so far in
our region.
There is monetary support in the
partnership with NSA which goes
directly to the tuition and other
needs of the scholars, the values
upheld by the Institution like loyalty,
discipline. Godliness serves as basis
14
MARINO WORLD
Priceless family heirloom, the Norway Merit Cross.
for the commitment to strengthen the
partnership.
The NSA composes 10% of JBLCFBacolod population on maritime
education.
YOUR M/V JUAN B. LACSON IS A
HUGE INVESTMENT, WHY DID YOU
TAKE THE RISK?
The M/V Juan B. Lacson is our floating
laboratory. We do not call it a training
ship yet, until fully refurbished to
meet our standards of a training ship.
Meanwhile, it greatly enhances practical
and hands-on training of our students.
The ship is expected to have good returns
based on the feasibility study, it is not
even a financial risk. JBLFMU is only a
part-owner, its alumni are the investors.
They pooled technical and financial
resources; our valued clientele also
played a huge factor with expert support
pro bono.
HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR
ADMINISTRATORS TEAMED UP,
UNIFIED IN EXCELLENCE?
Our Administrators are professional
leaders who are encouraged to compete
with their own performance yearly.
ANY MAJOR ISSUE WITH MARINA?
CHED?
Yes. Policy changes like “flash floods”
put too much strain on schools. Before
one policy could be completed, more
policies and timelines are issued. These
do not give enough time for us to comply
and allow us to clean-up the debris
before another policy may come again.
Personally, I feel policies have not been
properly thought of before they were
given out for proper implementation.
They were rather a reaction to EMSA
audits.
With too many schools, politics and
“corruption” will take more than one
lifetime for the Philippines to become a
maritime country. But It will continue to
be a good supplier of seafarers.
HOW DO YOU RE-ACT ON THE
CURRENT DISTRESS OF GLOBAL
SHIPPING?
In my years in maritime education, the
global shipping condition has undergone
several distresses through the years.
But they ride through the “troughs.”
Shipowners with vision are prepared for
this. They will ride it out till the sea is
calm again.
DO YOU FIND INTEREST ON
PARTYLIST NOMINATIONS TO
PROTECT SEAFARERS?
NO. Self-interests and partisan politics
are always the primary motivation.
I have yet to meet Partylist nominees
whose hearts are truly for seafarers
and will not be dissuaded by sponsors
who funded their election or where
the scholars as preselected from their
company sponsors.
EDUCATION
JUST AS UNIONISM AND ACTIVISM
BOTHERED YOUR FATHER BEFORE,
ARE THERE THINGS AROUND THAT
CONSTRAIN THE CONTINUED
GROWTH OF JBLFMU?
We are a foundation, a non-profit
institution. All funds go to the students’
welfare, the faculty, and the staff. We
are transparent in our operations.
JBLFMU continues to grow because our
constituents and the movers behind
grow with JBLFMU. No one can claim
personal success or glory. All successes
and glory belong to everyone at
JBLFMU.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE
PRIORITIES OF MARITIME
EDUCATORS TO SOLIDIFY
PHILIPPINE SHARE OF MERCHANT
SEAFARERS OF THE WORLD?
1. To educate for qualified and
competent seafarers, from ratings
to officers. This should not only be
our concern but we have to work to
become a maritime nation.
2. Develop allied maritime activities like
shipbuilding and repairs, protection
of the maritime environment like our
seas and territories, protection of the
health and safety of our seafarers, and
development of the talents of our
seafarers.
I will have to write a dissertation (or
perhaps a book?) on what it takes for the
Philippines to become a maritime nation.
problem. EMSA’s valuable observation
serves to improve. They should not
upset agencies or schools provided
they have been following the STCW and
improved on it. After all, the STCW is
the base guide. Education and agencies
should have inspired us using this as a
base and we shall have today improved.
EMSA should be looked at as a validator,
not as an inhibitor.
ANY PARTICULAR INTENT YOU
WISH TO SHARE YOUR SECTOR OR
THE MARITIME INDUSTRY?
Yes, we beg and kindly pray that we
please respect our seafarers.
We should not allow them to sleep on the
sidewalk to wait for MARINA to open.
At least, provide seats, add staff to attend
to their needs. Our seafarers deserve to
be treated with dignity, not as commodity
but as professionals.
Stop corruption! Help the schools to
improve.
A fair lady.
Her clear visioning and intensity mold
the image of an Iron Butterfly. But when
she lets hair down, one sees a humanist
and creative spirit. Her research focus are
always with communal benefits, viz:
•
•
•
Comparative Maritime Education
Status and Problems of Maritime
Students in the Philippines
Economic Status of Maritime
Students in Region VI.
And after the mundane, her four books
radiate sensitive feelings and sensible
depth:
• Ripples, coffee book of her poems
and paintings
• Less Than Noble Intentions, a novel
on the bright days and dark nights
of a family
• Career Placement Manual, a values
manual
• Mary Lou’s Overflow, a collection of
poems and paintings
She mothered two: Dr. Maria Teresa
L. Sebastian, married to Salvador of
the prominent Sarabia clan; Dr. Ronald
Raymond L. Sebastian, now JBLFMU
CEO and married to the beautiful Venus
Bernardo.
The children seek their priorities but Dr.
Arcelo is never the shrinking violet. She
keeps days buzzling with the arts she
communes with, the deep respect of
scores of Balangaw scholars she actually
lives with. Yes, not just fund but also
minister to the needs of everyday life.
Always, the question is whether a
son will fit his father’s hat. Now, the
challenge is gender reversed: will her
son, Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian,
be a trustworthy bearer of a legacy of
leadership and excellence?
Yes, expectedly. But let time mark the
scars and the valor.
IN REACTION TO EMSA, THE
GOVERNMENT HAS DEMANDED
FROM TEACHING INSTITUTIONS
MORE FACILITIES AND
EQUIPMENT LIKE SIMULATORS
THAT COST MILLIONS. HOW DOES
SUCH DEMANDS AFFECT YOUR
BALANCE SHEET?
For a maritime educational institution
that conforms with the STCW
Convention, there should be no problem.
These are developed through the years.
EMSA comes to audit. They are here
only to see how we are doing. If one
does what he should have been doing
based on the STCW, this would not be a
So young with youthful Balangaw scholars
MARINO WORLD
15
cover story
OSM Core Management then
OSM 25 Years
A CELEBRATION OF FIL-NOR TIES
A great example of Filipino-Norwegian
partnership --- strong, sincere.
Successful.
Filipino maritime professionals for the
OSM manning company in Manila --and the rest, proud history.
70% are Filipinos and, predictably,
Manila has the biggest crewing office
with about 300 workforce.
The company’s soul and body, OSM
Group Founder and Chairman Bjorn Tore
Larsen and OSM Philippines Chairman
Adonis Donato led the 25th Anniversary
celebrations January 20th at the Palacio
de Maynila.
On January 21, 1991, Larsen
accompanied the first of an all-Filipino
crew on a flight to Japan. The maiden
voyage created a milestone, adopted now
as founding anniversary of OSM-Phil.
Recognitions.
OSM was established 1989 in Arendal,
Norway, by young Larsen with four
associates. It started as a travel agency
for seamen. Upon noticing the emergence
of Filipino seafarers in international
shipping, the entrepreneurship bug
worked on. Larsen partnered with
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MARINO WORLD
OSM started serving less than 10
vessels, with only 13 staff in Manila
aided by offices in Norway and Hong
Kong. Now, OSM services about 500
offshore and conventional vessels
employing some 10,000 seafarers of
various nationalities managed from a
network of 24 offices worldwide. About
Norwegian First Secretary Kristian
Netland says, “OSM is a great
Norwegian company with a long and
proud history. Since its establishment
in 1989, OSM has developed into one
of the leading third party management
providers within maritime and offshore
industry. Today OSM has offices all over
the world with the Philippines as a very
crucial part in its operations.”
Philippine Overseas Employment
“The passion has always been
to win together...”
- Larsen
Larsen
Donato
Administration Chief Hans Leo Cacdac
adds, “OSM is an awardee of excellence
from the National Government, from the
Department of Labor and Employment.
There’s good reason behind that.
few years and it soon became clear to
me that this man is a man that wants
others to be well. He stood out in the
way he took special care of the crew to
make them develop.
A very impressive line-up of innovations
… quite special: the dollar allotment
arrangements, the extended insurance,
retirement pay, seamen’s lounge with
entertainment room for kiddies; corporate
social responsibility, efforts especially
those in disaster-stricken areas.”
In the maritime community, Don
has a good reputation. He is known
to be honest and stand out against
corruption. We wanted him to provide
his integrity and principles to our shore
based team. Then I asked him after his
ship was sold if he could work with us in
the office.
Partnership.
Donato joined in 1992 as one of first
ship masters to manage bulk carriers. In
two years, he assisted Mr. Larsen put up
its first crew development and welfare
department from Arendal, the head
office. In 1994, he went ashore to be
President and GM of OSM-Manila.
Larsen recalls: Don (pet endearment for
Donato) sailed with us as captain for a
Second is the fleet. And the 3rd important
area is the Crew Development and
Welfare which we would like you to head
if you like to.
But if you accept it, you have to stay
in Norway for three months so we can
develop this department together because
there’s no substitute for face-to-face
communication.
“Readily, without dealing with salaries or
compensation, I gave him my interest to
accept.”
Don: Bjorn approached me on my last
voyage in Malta and asked, “What is
your plan after this? Will you continue
sailing or are you going to put up a
manning agency?’ But my answer was a
question, “Before I answer you, Bjorn,
do you have any plan for me?”
Key to success.
“Yes, Don, I have plans for you.” He
continued, “In OSM, we have 3 major
areas of importance – first is shipowners.
Also take care of people around you,
your family, friends, colleagues, nothing
can replace the value of good relations,
Larsen: Balance is very important,
be happy for what you got, don’t
worry about things, all set-backs are
opportunities to improve. My greatest
energy comes when I see possibilities.
MARINO WORLD
17
A CELEBRATION OF FIL-NOR TIES
and Partners, for supporting the
endeavors.
The lady president also noted more
than 5,000 Filipinos enjoy (at OSM)
decent good job consequently,
positively affecting more than 5,000
Filipino families. Herein she repeats
the slogan and advocacy, “It’s all
about people.”
Walk the talk.
Ms. Cheri enchants the merrymakers.
you will always see it in the end. I have
my life in OSM, many memories of great
excitement, but there is also sad parts to
the story. The passion has always been
to win together, by creating workplaces
and adding more and more people to the
team, to the family.
Don: Love your work in whatever
position you are, and give your utmost
best in performing your duties and
functions, maintaining respect and due
consideration to your fellow worker.
And in all your plans and decisions, put
God first in your heart and He will direct
your steps and help you achieve success.
Finally, remember to have this kind of
attitude in life: We are born in this world,
“not to live to work, but rather work to
live.”
Faces of success.
have paved the way towards our success.
Today let us reveal the people behind the
OSM success.”
With undisguised emotions, Borillo
asked the merry-makers to remove the
masks and to take the spotlight; each
of them, while
she declares the
platitudes:
* Employees,
local and global,
who have chosen
to stay behind
to provide
quality service to
customers and
seafarers and
families;
Today, we recognize the people who
* Family members
MARINO WORLD
Mr. Carlos Mendoza and C/E Arturo
Abarabar received Faces of Triumph
for over 20 years of outstanding service
and for providing inspiration to many.
* Seafarers, for
everyday you
spend braving the
dangers of the
sea and enduring
months away
from your family,
choosing to give
your excellence
service to OSM
and customers;
At the silver celebrations, a distinct part
was, Unmasking the People Behind the
Success of OSM which Pres. Mailyn
Borillo impressed: “It’s all about people.
It’s all about OSM people. Yes, it’s
you. All of OSM accomplishments and
victories, all of the challenges we’ve
surpassed, it’s all because of you.
18
Aside from assurances, formal
recognitions were given to Faces
of Loyalty, 11 office staff and 50
seafarers for more than two decades of service and commitment.
Pres. Borillo: To charter, to lead.
COVER STORY
Faces of Triumph: Mendoza, Abarabar.
And for continuously being at the top
of their profession, successful, socially
responsible, without compromising values
of family.
The event was unique in that attendees
wore masks, attired formally and served
dinner in five-star ambiance. Filipinos
and Norwegians, together celebrating;
bonded by the OSM mantra of family, of
providing the finest to produce the best in
each person.
OSM –- ALL ABOUT PEOPLE
Entertainment came from talented
employees and cadets. OSM Maritime
Services Vice Chairman Cheri VillasinDonato sang “Climb” to give recognitions
to loyal employees. And the OSM band
played with a really special vocalist,
Adonis Donato himself (confirming where
daughter Cheri inherited her singing
range).
bright with lots of exciting opportunities
to grow and expand into the new areas.
In closing, Crew Management Managing
Director Tommy Olofsen set the course:
“I personally believe that the future is very
We need high performance from
everyone… Please do keep up the good
work!”
However, the near future, say 2016, 2017
looks to be toughest to everyone in our
industry. We thus need to ensure that
we keep our relentless focus and deliver
the best service and quality at the most
effective cost.
MARINO WORLD
19
Feature
Kristian Gerhard Jebsen Skipsrederi
KGJS CHARTERS FOR THE FUTURE
will continues to grow, then the number
of cadets will also grow.
A Norwegian and former ship Captain,
Morten synergizes his rich experience
with a Filipino, C/E Malvar Castellon.
This teaming makes the whole operations
ship-shaped, a master mariner and a chief
engineer.
In 2009, he took over as GM of KGJS’s
ROHQ-Manila, from being Project and
QA Manager of the Norwegian Training
Center-Manila and the Norwegian
Shipowners’ Association.
Johnsen
Castellon
Kristian Gerhard Jebsen Skipsrederi
(KGJS), Norwegian-owned, anchors
today on responding with the best of
technology and incessant trainings, in
a Cadetship Program to mold and pool
qualified merchant mariners, to have
reliable partners in its advocacy for green
technology.
Kristian Gerhard Jebsen (1927-2004+)
founded KGJS in 1967, and led it to
become a major international shipowning
company. The Jebsens have a long history
in ship-owning, technical management
and maritime operations, both in the dry
and liquid cargo shipping sectors.
KGJS remains a family-owned company;
as of December 2010, controlled by the
founder’s son Hans Peter Jebsen and
his family. KGJS currently operates in
SKS, KGJ Cement, BTG and KGJS Fleet
Management.
KGJS-Manila was incorporated in 1993 as
a manning agency to provide in-house
manning services for ships managed by
its foreign principals.
It employs about 2,000 Filipinos, 75%
of the whole crew with the rest East
Europeans, Russians, Polish, Croatians
and a few Scandinavians crewing the 28
tanker vessels, 16 cement carriers and 8
OBOs.
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MARINO WORLD
KGJS recognizes there is a shortage of
quality sea staff. To maintain its levels of
professionalism and customer services,
KGJS has the Cadetship Program in
the Philippines. This aims to maintain
continuity, replace both senior seafarers
and shore staff in the future.
Organization Man.
Morten Solo Johnsen, Owner’s
Representative and ROHQ-Manila GM,
that’s who.
“Our priority is to develop our own pool
of crews... (W)e have tried to have keep a
steady intake of around 40-45 cadets.”
In 2000, he worked in Bodo and became
Deputy Head of Pollution Prevention
Team/Depot
Norwegian Coastal Administration. Before
this, he was Principal Surveyor of the
Norwegian Maritime Directorate with
worldwide reach for ten years.
Morten had a seven-month (2005) stint in
Trincomale, Sri Lanka, as Deputy Head
of SLMM Naval Monitoring Team for the
Norwegian Refugee Council of its Ministry
of Foreign Affairs.
His management level postings are
pivotal and varied: with Odfjell ASA,
5 years worldwide, chemical carriers;
with Westfal-Larsen & Co AS, 3 years
worldwide, chemical carriers; support
level at Anders Jahre’s Rederi, 5 years
worldwide, VLCC and bulk carriers.
Johnsen recalls KGJS was twice bigger
than now. But a brother pulled out
Gearbulk to operate independently,
reducing assets to half. The split also
affected the Cadet Program, reducing to
40-45 cadets sponsored from the usual
100 annually. Yet, the prospects and the
mix continue: some end-up senior officers,
some juniors, some, ratings; but everybody
have the opportunity to be captains and
chief engineers.
Executive primus.
“Basically we like all of them to stay with
us forever. This is our priority to maintain
our cadets through their careers. With our
present fleet, with our own 45-50 vessels,
we need 40-50 cadets a year. If the fleet
He was of the original team that set-up
the company in 1993, starting as Port
Engineer and Training Director and
did the rounds of internal managerial
posts. He is also honed up on Philippine
C/E Malvar Castellon as KGJS-Manila GM
holds his own candle, in his yard and on
the whole.
Castellon is responsible for the whole
operations of KGJSM crew manning and
training company, its development and
the continuing satisfaction of customers,
both internal and external.
government decision-making and policy
implementation having worked with its
agencies on maritime concerns: Maritime
Training Council, Commission on Higher
Education
(CHEd), Maritime Industry Authority
(MARINA) and Technical Education and
Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
In the private sector, Castellon was C/E
at Gearbulk/Jardine Ship Management
and engineer with various international
shipping companies on-board various types
of vessels.
He chaired the Filipino Association of
Maritime Employers (FAME) Technical
Committee on Engineer Officers and
served as Associate Port Control Inspector
at the Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA).
Ahead.
Castellon government sorties --- assisting
in developing Philippine responses to
STCW 95, exposure in the implementation
--- enabled him to anticipate
requirements. His company
was already doing shipboard
training record book even
before it was mandatory.
we have a return of investment… (S)ince
I started here, we have not had any major
accident. Of course, minor things happen
(just as they) happen all over.”
KGJS prides itself of an excellent 95-98%
retention rate of its seafarers. Even those
who leave to seek greener pastures knock
back on KGJS’ door.
The regular trainings are supplemented by
Family Day, Christmas Party, with updates
on relevant information for families to
be at ease and assured. Manila, Cebu and
Davao have Seamen Clubs, all independent
to decide on their priorities and charities to
support, should they wish to.
Cautions.
While his experience with Filipinos is very
positive, Johnsen shares some points, “We
have challenges. First of all, the salary and
the cost for a Filipino crew especially for
a senior officer, it’s now more or less the
same as with a European. Actually, we are
paying a Polish captain less than we are
KGJS invests heavily on training, inhouse, with simulators, for their cadets and
seafarers of different nationalities and in
partnership with other training centers for
mandatory STCW courses.
Morten confirms, “We do a lot of
trainings. It’s hard to measure the return
of investment but we strongly believe that
Future.
Morten attended the First Norway
Maritime Conference held in Cebu and
reacts on the topic, Is Technology the
Savior?
“We’d like to look into the future what
we can expect tomorrow. And there
are a lot of green technologies in focus
now… (W)e have actually just taken
delivery of OBOs... our contribution to the
environment.
OBOs are vessels designed to perform as a
tanker for oil or a bulkcarrier for dry cargo
better able to minimize wasteful ballast
legs between cargoes, to the benefit of
both parties as well as the environment.
KGJS awaits its newbuilt bulk
carrier, also constructed on cuttingedge technology with the engine
requiring much less fuel and spewing
minimal pollution.
Now, the company sponsors
cadets under the auspices
of the NSA (which KGJS is
a member and contributes)
and in partnership with the
Development Bank of the
Philippines Endowment for
Education Program (DEEP).
Trainings.
We also believe that this new law that
was signed just recently will help on that,
hopefully. We have to see.
Unfortunately the gas prices today
are more expensive than marine
diesel. So we will see if that will
balance, but the future will definitely
be green technology.”
KGJS started its cadetship
program as early as 1994.
KGJS takes in cadets from
the Philippine Merchant
Marine Academy; University
of Cebu, John B. Lacson
Colleges Foundation Bacolod; DMMA College of Southern
Philippines.
the legal system and reports in the
Philippines…ofcourse those have negative
effects.
Practicals on the simulator to be world-class
paying for a Filipino. And the Filipinos are
all the time asking for more and more and
more and more.
If this continue at one point the Filipinos
will not be competitive anymore. So that’s
something we have to be careful with.
And the different court cases for disability,
that has been a problem for the industry
in general. For us as well, we have paid
out hundreds of thousands of dollars for
kidney stones, and things like that, which
has nothing to do with work related things,
it’s more on lifestyle. But unfortunately
Morten also notices these innovations
are complemented by Filipinos who
takes well on English, the language
of technology. Most of the crew
speak English and should be able
to understand and maximize the
advantages of the equipment and
facilities.
He believes Filipinos will remain, for
many more years, as the major supplier of
seafarers to the world fleet --- for as long
as Filipinos continue to be competitive,
compliant to all international requirements
and respond well to industry challenges.
Europe is currently in a financial crisis and
the unemployment rate there is getting
higher and higher. He projects European
countries will promote their own crew
in more economical ways. There may be
changes in the future (with the EMSA
audit on the Philippines already resolved).
MARINO WORLD
21
Policy
NORWAY AMBASSADOR ERIK FORNER
OCEANS OFFER OPPORTUNITIES
Marino World was given last February
23rd a personal interview by H.E. Erik
Forner, Norwegian Ambassador to the
Philippines, held at Global City, Taguig,
at Metro Manila.
The ambassador confirms the
“challenging” situation of the maritime
industry. Oil price used to average
US$150 per barrel. It was halved in
2014, and currently trades on the world
market at around US$30/barrel. Petro
dollars dried up, investment constricted
with the slowdown of the world
economy.
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MARINO WORLD
The crisis demands patience, even for
shipowners already keeling for quite
sometime now. Those better capitalized
are on survival mode; others must settle
with banks for restructuring of loan
portfolio or go bust.
and gas as one part of it, the maritime
industry as the second part and then
the seafood industry as the third… all
of them have synergies to the others.
Amidst the flicker in the offshore
industry, Norway sees light in the
seafood industry in its partnership with
the Philippines now essentially based on
the maritime industry.
And that’s also what the government
would try to do in their planning, to
try to take out the synergies and try
to develop the ocean industries…I
think this is also interesting for the
Philippines because we have the same
proximity to the water.”
Ambassador Forner details, “(W)
e started to talk about the ocean
industries…a new interesting term, oil
He hazards to guess seafood is the
largest potential given Norway pegged
on it her largest growth in a couple of
where you can use much more
space, he explains further.
Forner recalls Norway started with
just small fishing boats and the
salmon, brought to the table fresh
and healthy. She became second
largest exporter of seafood in the
world after China.
“But this is our salmon… you here
have other things, this area that
we’ll develop in the years to come,”
the ambassador clarifies with
optimism.
Aquaculture.
At the recent Norway Maritime
Conference in Cebu, Prof. Torger
Reve of BI Norwegian Business
School, underscored aquaculture
as the future in his presentation,
Strategies for Competing in the
Ocean Industries.
Aquaculture in the Philippines
involves many species, farming
practices in diverse ecosystems.
Produce comes from farming
seaweed, milkfish, tilapia,
shrimp, carp, oyster and mussel.
It contributes significantly to
the country’s food security,
employment and foreign exchange
earnings.
decades or so.
He points out, “… about 2% of
everything that we eat on the planet
come from the water, it could be much,
much more. What’s in the water is
mainly healthy if you keep the waters
clean, it’s unlimited.”
While Norway specializes on
construction of offshore platforms,
the same technology could put up
windmill, a fishpond, aquaculture. The
process looks like a ship but instead of
fish farming in a bay, you put it offshore
in big construction with clear water and
But while its aquaculture is
growing much faster than capture
fisheries, Philippine aquaculture
production has fallen steadily from
4th place in 1985 to 12th today. Its
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources (BFAR) and the Council
for Agriculture and Aquatic Resources
claim the country was once top world
producer until the slide starting 1997.
Current performance is just over 1% of
global farmed fish production as against
5% previously.
Philippine aquaculture may hibernate
unless new buyers are attracted, market
competitiveness strengthened and
farming risks reduced. It needs to plan
and implement a national development
and management program with a
global perspective.
And more doors.
The Ambassador picks ship registry
which is developing as an attractive and
important option. He believes a new
plan should soften regulations to make
it more competitive, adding more ships
in the registry.
Then there is shipbuilding, the
Ambassador thinks. Norway labor is
expensive, compromising its large
shipping industry. Hence, the paradigm
shift to specializing on highly advanced
ships in the offshore industry. Since
technology needed on these is very
expensive, labor cost is no longer a
pivotal factor for viability.
From what Marino World gathers
from the ambassador, Norway is more
competitive now downsizing but
specializing, operating together with
platforms. Shipyards make smaller boats
for harbor piloting, water ambulances,
and police crafts. The small yards make
boats for leisure, with small motor or sail
boats. Norway has weaned from the big,
big ships she used to traditionally build.
Green ship.
Mr. Forner relates to experience in
Norway on the green development.
When there is a public bid for ferries to
bring people, cargo and cars between
the islands, the government seeks
bids which are environment-friendly,
possibly ferries with zero emission and
pollutants.
Instead of diesel-fed engines, the
government prefers electric engines
fueled by cleaner battery packs. As the
ferries are docked, they double-task to
recharge batteries.
Ambassador Forner beams that in
Norway, electricity is 100% generated
from hydro power, never coal nor fossil
fuel. The message Marino World reads
from these is that the Philippines has
same and similar resources to exploit.
Norway technology and investment are
just waiting to be tapped. But, seriously.
MARINO WORLD
23
Training
NTC-M New Home
A WORLD-CLASS TRAINING CENTER
The Norwegian Training Center-Manila
(NTC-M) has marked its silver year with
a US$4-million simulator investment,
complete with integrated system, the
first in the Philippines.
With such major expansion of
equipment and facilities, NTC-M
relocates last February at the 6th floor
of Five E-Com Center, Harbor Tower,
Mall of Asia complex, Pasay City.
It is now the most modern and largest
in the whole of Asia with 30 simulators,
of state-of-the-art technology, a
wide range of models. These are high
technology solutions and sophisticated
equipment from Kongsberg, viz:
•
1 Full Mission Forward and Aft
Bridge with DP 2 (K-Sim Offshore)
•
1 Forward Bridge with optional DP
2 and Aft Bridge (PSV)
•
3 Deep Sea Navigation Trainers
(K-Sim Polaris) with GMDSS
•
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1 K-POS DP Trainers DNV Class B
(K-Sim DP Simulator)
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•
6 K-POS Basic Trainers with DP
Software (K-POS DP Simulator)
•
1 Offshore Crane Simulator and
Slinger and Banks man Stations
•
1 Full Mission Engine Room
Simulator
•
6 Desktop Engine Room
Simulators
•
6 Desktop Liquid Cargo Handling
Simulators
Kongsberg’s 40 years in simulation
leadership is patched with NTC-M’s 25
years of quality maritime training; the
synergy allows NTC-M to give the best,
most realistic training and learning
experience.
In general, the simulators have the
sophisticated Seaview 3D technology,
extensive fleet of ship models, realistic
behavior and learning experience,
complemented by advanced instructor
system. Flexibility of the simulators
enables various training possibilities,
including team training for complex
operations. Most importantly, these
simulators are integrated to exercise
the best practices, communication
and interaction to prepare participants
in day-to-day operations, even in
emergency situations on-board.
Cadetship program.
NTC-M runs the Norwegian
Shipowners’ Association (NSA)
Philippines Cadet Program on the wings
of the Association of Shipowners’
Training and Education Project (ASOATEP) to develop the young into
competent seafarers through the best
maritime education on scholarship
grants.
The program has tied up with four
maritime schools: Philippine Merchant
Marine Academy; John B. Lacson
Colleges Foundation - Bacolod; DMMA
College of Southern Philippines; and
University of Cebu - Lapu Lapu and
Mandaue.
NTC-M Managing Director Erlend
Grimstad says, “The result of NSA
cadetship program is that many are
being given the opportunity to get this
education. They are being guaranteed
12 months on board ships as part of their
education. We see that the quality of the
training and competence is very good
so we get a very good feedback from
the Norwegian shipowning companies
and also from monitoring them and
comparing them with other cadets.”
There are now a total of 6,000 cadets
admitted to the NSA Philippines Cadet
Program.
Pitstops.
Three success stories of cadets under
the program was played on video at
cocktails, a day earlier than the January
28 to 29th Norway Maritime Conference
at the Shangri La resort hotel on Mactan
island.
On that morning, NTC-M officers and
members accompanied NSA CEO
Sturla Henriksen at the University of
Cebu where Pres. Augusto W. Go and
Chancellor Candice Gotianuy (Honorary
Norwegian Consul in Cebu) led a
program with:
•
Signing of deeds of NSA equipment
to UC-Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue
(UCLM).
•
Campus tour to inspect new Engine
Room Simulator and other maritime
facilities
•
Presentation from UCLM NSA
Cadets and UC Dance Company.
The group also visited the SOS Children
Village-Cebu at Highway 11, Talamban,
Cebu City, to turn-over a donation of
ten desktop computers. NSA members
fund the Village as a corporate social
responsibility (CRS).
The party was welcomed with songs
and dances by the children; in parts,
with mothers, workers and youth of the
Village.
Solvang execs visit NTC-M new center.
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ship’sBridgeSimulators
OffshoreVesselSimulators
DynamicPositioningSimulators
EngineRoomSimulators
BallastHandlingSimulators
CargoHandlingSimulators
Crane&WinchSimulators
Communication(GMDSS)Simulators
VTSSimulators
INCREASE EFFICIENCY & SAFETY AT SEA
– BENEFIT FROM BEST PRACTICE!
MARITIME & OFFSHORE SIMULATORS
THE FULL PICTURE
Kongsberg provides simulator solutions that
maximise performance in a range of operations at
sea. Our simulator solutions are based on unrivalled
experience with real systems, to provide you with the
highest degree of realism in use and appearance.
You get the ability to train your students or crew
to act with precision and certainty in difficult
conditions. You can train on day-to-day challenges
as well as emergency and critical operations, helping
to increase knowledge, safety and efficiency at sea.
With Kongsberg simulators you will benefit from
best practice learnt by training on operations over
and over again, until you get THE FULL PICTURE!
www.km.kongsberg.com
Training
SHIP CATERING NCIII CERTIFIED
By Ms. Lina Anacla-Banuelos
Cooks working onboard ships must be certified as Ships’
Catering NC III (Ship’s Cook) by January 1, 2017, barely
nine months away and competing with other office or contract
schedules and personal priorities.
But there are Three Easy Ways to cope, viz:
Mandatory assessment.
All learners/students who have completed the training
program covered by the Ship’s Catering Training Regulations
are required to take the mandatory assessment, either:
•
Written Examination
•
2. Photocopy required documents (but have originals ready for
the processing officer).
Written Examination + Demonstration of Practical
Cookery Skills
•
Portfolio Assessment
3. Go to accredited Ship’s Catering NC III Assessment Center.
Table below guides on the documents required, qualification
and assessment fee.
1. List all your ships’ cook, verify which mandatory
assessment they fall into.
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Legislation
Training
GIGAMARE RENEWS COMMITMENT
CEO Ullakonoja seals with Administrator Garcia.
A Finnish company serving many
Norwegian firms has re-launched long-term
commitment to the maritime industry, in
support of Filipino seafarers well into the
future.
A day after Valentine 2016, GigaMare
signs an extension to the lease agreement to
locate at the special economic zone of the
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)
in Zambales, Philippines.
GigaMare President and CEO Jari
Ullakonoja and SBMA Chairman and
Administrator Roberto Garcia sealed
the agreement at the SBMA boardroom.
Witnessing formalities are GigaMare
Chairman Walden Tantuico and Director
Anthony Shibley.
Pres. Ullakonoja impresses, “We signed 25
+ 25 years agreement so our commitment
is now for longer term. That means
supporting the future of the Filipino
seafarers…”
He recalls it has been 23 years since 1993
that they first located. Thus, he sees 20
and 50 more years to the future. That
this commitment to carry on is reflected
on long-term leases they sign for, on
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partnerships they agree with --- on major
investment GigaMare makes.
This time the lease arrangement is for
educational institutions, inclusive of the
free training package (scholarships) for
SBMA, of two training courses annually
for SBMA port operations.
Early bird.
Since 2013, GigaMare has operated within
the premises the Wartsila Sea and Land
Academy established by the latter in 1993.
GigaMare took over Wartsila’s training
infrastructure in Subic Bay on a lease that
ends 2016 but anticipated to be renewed.
Wartsila still operates locally focused on
sales of new power plant, new equipment
and servicing, with training as part of the
package. GigaMare maintains partnership
with Wartsila on training for after-sales
servicing.
Fact is, Ullakonoja had worked for Wartsila
as Director for Training Services (19892013). Wartsila packs quite a credential;
the most recent, bagging the largest retrofit
contract on11 boxships owned by Bernhard
Schulte GmbH. To be installed on the
vessels are the Wartsila Aquarius ballast
water management system (BWMS), given
IMO’s ballast water treaty soon coming
into force.
The company.
GigaMare serves maritime, oil and
gas, energy and mining industries with
innovative and quality products and
services for safe and efficient operations.
Its network is effectively worldwide, with
Norwegian companies a good part of its
growing clientele.
Finnish-owned, there are three majority
interests, viz:
•
GigaWatt Power - owns and operates
power plants in the Philippines. The
wide experience and know-how
strengthens GigaMare in power plant
training.
•
Novia University of Applied Sciences
(Finland) - owns and operates Aboa
Mare, one of the oldest maritime
universities in Europe. These form a
solid foundation for development of
training in maritime and engineering.
•
LS Academy (Finland)
- specialized in
corporate training
and development,
operation and
management services.
Expansion.
“(W)e have long term lease
to support our plan. We
believe that our number of
trainees will grow. In 2020
we see that our activity
will double… We have
enough space for our future
expansion plans, ”asserts
Ullakonoja.
GigaMare GM Hernane Balinas hawk-eyes parts.
GigaMare leases about
four hectares at SBMA, a
clear manifest of investing on buildings and
equipment such as generating set for small
power plants and types of simulators.
It carries Cadet Programs and uses third
party training providers for the STCW
programs. Ullakonoja plans to consolidate
these in one house, immediately apply
for accreditation as soon as the Maritime
Authority Administration (MARINA)
finalizes revisions of the GigaMare
syllabus.
And there’s assessment, something
GigaMare may start in Manila by offering
third party assessments for manning
companies to evaluate staff and crew
suitability for certain areas.
Practical amendments.
GigaMare has signed an MoU with the
Lyceum-Subic Bay, part of the process
of accrediting with CHEd the Naval
architecture program planned for June.
“One part of GigaMare owners is Novia
Univesity… we can bring that know-how
here in the college degree programs, “
explains Ullakonoja.
Its Cadet Program is currently implemented
with cadets having employers and the latter
pays for the education. He favors amending
the system since “… shipping is in turmoil,
money is very tight.”
He explains, “… (I)f we have student
financing available we could provide more
employment opportunities for Filipino
graduates. And we are working with Asian
Development Bank (DBP) and I hope
within this year available where we can
provide low interest rates for the cadets.
And that could then be the system where
the shipowner and the cadet could share the
expense, so it’s a commitment from both
sides.”
GigaMare has been discussing alternative
approaches with DBP on its DEEP
program; also with the Asian Development
Bank (ADB) lending money to the schools,
in turn lend to the students funneled
through local banks.
Built to exacting ship specs, a major investment.
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