President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged graduates of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) Salighirang Class of 2026 to lead with humility, serve with integrity, and uphold competence wherever their careers take them.
Speaking during the graduation rites in Zambales on Friday, he also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening maritime education, training, certification systems, and facilities to keep Filipino seafarers globally competitive.
Marcos said these reforms helped address previous concerns over the country’s maritime standards that had threatened the jobs of about 50,000 Filipinos working on European Union-registered vessels.
He also emphasized that the administration remains committed to protecting the safety and welfare of Filipino seafarers, particularly those deployed in conflict-affected areas.
The President assured graduates that the government will continue to support them as they serve the country and the global maritime industry.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 18, 2026
