Acknowledging the vital role of the Philippines in global maritime economic contributions, the Japanese government highlighted that the country accounts for about 70% of their merchant fleet.
During a graduation on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 84 Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) cadets and 100 Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSME) cadets of the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA), Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya noted that Filipino seafarers are evidently and indispensably present in the international maritime environment.
“The maritime industry plays a crucial role in the global economy. The Philippines and Japan are not separated, but rather connected by the sea. I have high hopes for MMMA graduates," Endo said.
Furthermore, the Japanese Ambassador stressed the shared confidence in ensuring the stability and safety of international shipping through the dedication, commitment, and professionalism of the cadets.
“And through that, you made a significant contribution to the maritime industry’s continued growth,” he added.
PH in the maritime industry
Aside from being the major provider of seafarers in the world, the Philippine maritime industry is an important component of the country’s economy through the accumulation of approximately four to five percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita.
Moreover, there were about 1.8 million workers in the maritime industry, which remained an important source of employment in 2021, aside from international shipping that generated almost 400,000 jobs in 2024.
In addition, seafarers are required to remit at least 80% of their basic monthly salary to their beneficiaries in the Philippines, making seafarers’ remittances one of the major contributors to the country’s GDP.
DMW laud graduates, share empowerment
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary Bernard Olalia also lauded the graduates of MMMA, highlighting that they are intended to uphold the Philippine flag overseas.
Moreover, Olalia emphasized that Filipino seafarers play a critical role in promoting international mobility, safeguarding the strong international reputation of the country.
“Filipino seafarers continue to earn global recognition for their competence, reliability, and professionalism. Schools like MMMA play a crucial role in shaping this reputation,” he added.
Olalia noted that seafarers from the Philippines are “indispensable to global commerce and international mobility, often working under challenging conditions far from their home.”
“The Filipino seafarer has long been a symbol of excellence on the global stage, but excellence is built early within institutions that demand discipline, uphold integrity, and instill a spirit of service,” he said.
Olalia cited that the responsibility of Filipino seafarers is not limited to technical competence, reminding the graduates to reflect on their conduct during maritime activities.
“Every time you raise the flag on a foreign ship, you represent our nation. Your conduct, work ethic, and professionalism shape how the world sees the Filipino worker,” Olalia said.
He stated that the mandate of the DMW was to safeguard Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and ensure the continuity of addressing issues regarding maritime governance.
“We recognize that you are not just workers at sea—you are vital contributors to the global economy and ambassadors of Filipino excellence,” he said.
Fulfilling their professional mandate, the graduates of MMMA Class of 2026 are set to serve as Third Officers and Third Engineers aboard vessels operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation.
Written by John Paul Ladiana Siapel, Insight PH
John Paul Ladiana Siapel, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
