On February 18, Arsenio Antonio Domínguez Velasco, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), embarked on an official visit to the Philippines as part of his engagements with maritime stakeholders. His first stop was NYK-Fil Maritime E-Training Inc. (NETI) and NYK-TDG Maritime Academy (NTMA), the NYK Group's premier training center and maritime academy in the country. This visit aimed to strengthen ties between the IMO, the Philippine government, and the shipping industry, while promoting global maritime education and training standards.
During his visit, the secretary-general toured NETI's state-of-the-art simulator facilities, which provide a realistic and immersive learning environment for aspiring seafarers. These advanced technologies support the development of skilled mariners who can navigate complex global shipping operations. The IMO's emphasis on investing in maritime education and training is essential for ensuring the industry's continued growth and sustainability.
The secretary-general also attended a forum with NTMA cadets, where he delivered an inspiring address that highlighted the importance of teamwork, leadership, and safety at sea. This exchange provided an opportunity for cadets to directly engage with the IMO secretary-general and ask questions on various topics, including maritime safety, environmental sustainability, and career development opportunities.
The visit concluded with a campus tour of NTMA, where the secretary-general met with students and faculty members from the academy's various programs. This event marked an important milestone in strengthening partnerships between the IMO, the Philippine government, and the shipping industry. The IMO's engagement with maritime education institutions like NTMA is vital for promoting global best practices and advancing seafarer competence.
The visit reaffirmed the Philippines' critical role in the global maritime workforce and underscored the importance of continued collaboration between governments, industries, and international organizations. As a key player in the shipping industry, the Philippines has a significant impact on global trade and economic growth.
NYK's commitment to advancing human resource development is commendable, as it aligns with the IMO's goals for maritime safety and sustainability. The company's focus on practical education and training, as well as its adoption of innovative practices, demonstrates its dedication to supporting the development of skilled mariners.
The visit also highlighted the significance of women in the maritime industry, which is a critical area of focus for the IMO. As the shipping sector continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize diversity and inclusion, ensuring that future generations of seafarers are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this demanding field.
The formal send-off ceremony attended by government officials, diplomatic representatives, and maritime industry leaders marked the end of the secretary-general's visit. This event underscored the importance of partnerships between governments, industries, and international organizations in advancing maritime education, safety, and sustainability.
As the IMO continues to work towards a more sustainable and safe global shipping industry, its engagement with countries like the Philippines is crucial. The IMO's focus on promoting best practices, investing in education and training, and supporting the development of skilled mariners will be essential for driving growth and innovation in the sector.
The IMO's focus on maritime safety and sustainability is crucial for the industry's future growth.
