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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2010 http://www.ufs.ph PHP 15.00 2 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 3 A LAW ALL ITS OWN UFS Revives Lobby for Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers he United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) prior to the enactment of RA 8042, it came has taken the initiative to revive the out as a surprise in the local maritime Tlegislative lobby for the passage industry that their inputs were hardly Engr. Ramirez of the UFS was among the offi cers of the Philippine Association of Migrant Workers into law of the Magna Carta of Filipino considered in the fi nal wordings of the and Advocates (PAMWA) who made a courtesy call on Rep. Emmeline Aglipay (fourth from left) Seafarers, which has been a long-sought law. and her staff at the Ramon Mitra Building at the Batasang Pambansa. Also on hand (from right) are dream for the local seafaring industry. Although the local maritime industry is Dr. Joe Kasim of DAMLAG, FE Nicodemus of KAKAMPI, Sister. Bernadette Guzman of the Center for Overseas Filipino Workers, Atty. Kate Sabado and Atty. Francis Ballesteros. The major stakeholders in the local considered a bankable and quite prolifi c maritime industry have long drafted and sector of the pushed for the enactment of the Magna general migrant Carta of Filipino Seafarers which shall workers or the govern the conduct of deployment of overall OFW Filipino mariners and all its pertinent industry, it still intricacies or the local maritime industry as appeared as a whole. though Filipino There were several instances in the past seafarers were when a number of legislators expressed just playing clear intentions to author the bill in their second fi ddle respective chambers but those moves fell to land-based short as they got preoccupied with other workers being pressing legislations. deployed This legal shortcoming was in fact one abroad. of the reasons why when the partylist With the nomination and representation was recent passage formally introduced to the Filipino electorate into law of the in the 1998 national election, several Republic Act stakeholders in the local maritime industry No. 10022, decided to throw their hats into the partylist offi cially known race. Nearly every contender had the noble as “An Act intention of fi nally representing the Filipino Amending RA seafarers in Congress. Unfortunately, all 8042, Otherwise those attempts fell short even up to the Known as the recent 2010 national elections. Migrant Workers The most headway that the Magna and Overseas Carta of Filipino Seafarers gained in the Filipinos Act legislature was during the fi rst regular of 1995, as session of the Senate during the 14th Amended, Congress when Senator Edgardo J. Further Angara introduced and fi led Senate Bill Improving the 214 entitled: “An Act Instituting the Magna Standard of Carta of Filipino Seafarers.” Protection and It was clear from the bill’s explanatory Promotion of note and the ensuing 17 chapters that the the Welfare Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is meant of Migrant to recognize the local seafaring industry Workers, Their as an industry by itself and should in fact, Families, be treated separately from the land-based Overseas manpower deployment sector. Filipinos in Filipino seafarers deployed onboard Distress, and foreign ocean-going vessels are For Other considered part of the overseas Filipino Purposes” that workers (OFW) lot or the general migrant included critical workers sector. However when the bill amendments governing the deployment of OFWs was that many in the enacted into law (Republic Act 8042 or the local maritime Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos industry Act of 1995), it hardly contained a specifi c considered as provision, much less a phrase, on or about detrimental or Filipino seafarers. may even led While some stakeholders in the local to the untimely maritime industry, including the UFS, were TURN TO actually part of the deliberation process PAGE 40 4 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 Danger Lurks at the Manila North Harbor Entrance Channel he next maritime disaster in the certainly not proportional to the amount of country may actually happen right siltation that the ‘human settlement’ causes Tat the Port of Manila if government on specifi c parts of the water at the entrance authorities do not take immediate measure channel to the Manila North Harbor, making to address a lurking danger right at the the buoy markings extremely important. busy entrance channel of the Manila North Manila North Harbor is the country’s Harbor, the country’s largest domestic largest domestic port and on average, at port. least 15 to 20 vessels enter or exit the Apparently, two of the three buoy harbour on a daily basis. markings at the entrance channel of the Without the buoys, skippers of domestic Manila North Harbor are no longer visible vessels just rely on their familiarity with because they have either been stolen by the entrance channel to safely navigate ‘enterprising elements’ within the vicinity of in and out of the Manila North Harbor. But the harbor or have drifted somewhere else the fact still remains that danger is up on because their age-old connecting lines the horizon every time a ship maneuvers may have already snapped. through the buoy-less entrance channel. According to the personnel of the The United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) has Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), fl oating called the attention of the PPA on the issue marker buoys should be present at the and even copy furnished the Philippine position of 14 degrees 37’ 25” N, 120 Coast Guard (PCG) of the correspondence degrees 56’ 5” E; and the position of 14 early this year. PCG was given a copy degrees 36’ 12.5” N, 120 degrees 55’ 10” of the letter because the issue involves E. maritime safety. The only available fl oating buoy marker In the fi rst letter of the UFS addressed is located at the position of 14 degrees 36’ to then PPA General Manager Atty. Oscar 5” N, 120 degrees 55’ 0” E. Sevilla Jr., the union raised its concern Buoys are important aids to navigation to the PPA over the absence of buoys in especially in hazardous maritime channels the entrance channel of the Manila North because they provide appropriate marks in Harbor and asked the port agency to do the portion of the sea where ships should something about it. not pass or avoid because it is either The Philippine Coast Guard, through shallow, or there is an obstruction beneath Commandant Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo, the surface of the water. subsequently seconded the UFS letter by Given that a good number of people sending the PPA a follow-up letter asking have turned the Manila North Harbor for funding for the buoys as those aids to breakwater into a squatter colony, it was navigation are covered by the PPA and rather expected that the areas surrounding can easily be funded from its operational the place would become shallow because budget. The PCG just offered to maintain of refuse. and secure them once reinstalled. While dredging may be a regular The requests of the UFS and the undertaking at the port by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), its frequency is TURN TO PAGE 43

With the assistance of personnel and watercraft from the Philippine Coast Guard, the United Fili- pino Seafarers (UFS) was able to conduct an actual ocular inspection of the exact location where the buoy markers should be at the entrance channel of the Manila North Harbor. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 5 6 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

Tinig ng Marino (Voice of the Seafarer) is published by the United Filipino Seafarers, a duly registered Philippine maritime union. Editorial offi ce: 4th/F Room 402, Gedisco Terraces Bldg., 1148 Roxas Blvd., Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Tele- phone nos.: (632) 524-4888; 525-5806; Fax (632) 524-2336; E-mail: ufs_07@ yahoo.com; Website: http://www.ufs.ph. Materials published in this paper may be reprinted provided proper acknowledgment to Tinig ng Marino and the author, if indicated, is made. Nelson P. Ramirez Executive Editor Rey Gambe Arianne Rodriguez Managing Editor Sonia Inserto Creative Consultant Assistant Editors Erik España Minabelle Siason Roland Cabrera Belgium Bureau Artists Capt. Arturo Cañoza Fr. James Kolin Japan Bureau New York Bureau Sapalo Velez Bundang Engr. Samson Tormis & Bulilan Law Offi ces Greece Bureau Legal Consultants Corry Llamas-Konings Danilo B. Abayata Jr. Philip Ramirez Freddierick P. Castante Bob Ramirez Ahrvie Valdez Rotterdam Bureau Production Staff SOUNDING LEAD EEDITORIALDITORIAL CAPT. REYNOLD ‘BURT’ M. SABAY 2010 Manila Amendments: Seafarer Law is a Must he time has come for a true law for Filipino Seafarers to be en- Are We Prepared? Tacted very soon. Since practically time immemorial, it has been the long-sought dream for many stakeholders in the local seafaring of competency issued to a seafarer, and ECE are good for ratings posi- tions the way we do with BSMT and industry and many grizzled mariners to have a Magna Carta of Fili- he historic Diplomatic Confer- stating that the relevant require- ence of the International Mari- ments of training, competencies or BSMarE graduates that most of pino Seafarers. time Organization (IMO) held seagoing service in the Convention them are good only for ratings posi- The enthusiasm and excitement reached crescendo during the T in Manila from 21 to 25 June 2010 have been met.” tions. fi rst session of the 14th Congress when Senator Edgardo J. An- defi nitely put the Philippines on the According to our soundings This will bring us back to the is- gara introduced Senate Bill No. 214 entitled, “An Act Instituting the world’s maritime map. therefore, COC is issued to marine sues of quality and standards of our Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.” How the Philippines would bene- offi cers and COP is issued to a sea- college education. It was very clear in the explanatory note of SB No. 214 when it fi t from the fruits of the labors of the farer. This would simply mean that The problem is clear: our educa- posed: “Human resource is an essential strength in an increasing international delegation is now up a seafarer rating does not need any tion and training regime is so infl ex- global economy. The Philippines remains to be the biggest source to the Filipino people, more particu- COC. ible to the point that we prostitute of seafarers in the global market, both for offi cers and ratings. larly those who are in the maritime The STCW went on further to courses to comply with STCW re- The challenge now lies for the Philippines to maintain its domi- industry sector and their infl uences state: “Documentary evidence quirements instead of developing nant presence vis-a-vis competition posed by emerging sources to the changes in the industry. The means documentation, other than new courses that would directly of labor. The advantage of the Philippines as a major supplier of challenge is up to the Philippines’ a certifi cate of competency or cer- comply. maritime labor will be seriously undermined if the Philippine govern- maritime education and training re- tifi cate of profi ciency, used to estab- These new courses are not ment does not take decisive steps to improve the national system of gime. lish that the relevant requirements necessarily baccalaureate and of maritime education and training and does not push for the develop- Basically there are eight new of the Convention have been met.” course not necessarily three or four ment and implementation of a strong, consistent legislative agenda training requirements and 11 exist- It would therefore mean that training years. I wonder whatever happened for Filipino seafarers. ing training programs to be revised certifi cates and sea service certifi ca- to our Technical Vocational Educa- Beyond recognition that the maritime industry is a viable option that will start to take effect 01 Janu- tions are examples of documentary tion and Training (TVET). for economic growth is the State’s primordial duty to ensure their ary 2012, a little more than a year evidence. Having said that, this will again protection and welfare. A perfect start is to come up with a defi nitive from the time of this writing. While the STCW Convention and bring us back to the issues of who is in charge. While the STCW was policy legislation that will bring together the various provisions on It was interesting to note that after its Codes demonstrated its fl exibility 32 years of the STCW Convention over the years through well-thought clear on the authority of the Admin- seafarers scattered in various laws, institute well-meaning reforms and its succeeding Amendments, -of amendments, the challenge is istration, the Philippines has yet to in our maritime industry and create a holistic approach to recogniz- the Philippines has yet to come to for the Philippines to make its Laws decide on setting up a real-cum-ideal ing, emphasizing and advancing the issues and concerns of our terms with correct defi nitions of ba- and Policies including the mindsets Administration that will call the shots seafarers as envisioned in this bill.” sic words and phrases in the STCW fl exible as well to the changes of and not always rationalize the orga- Unfortunately, without a counterpart bill at the House of Repre- that will leave no room for violent times. nized confusion in the standards of sentative, the Senate Bill just remained that – a bill. interpretations and reactions. Speculations have been made our maritime education, training, With the recent amendments to the Republic Act No. 8042 or the STCW defi nition – “Certifi cate already that in order to comply with certifi cation and watchkeeping. It is Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995 which some- of Competency (COC) means a new requirements such as Electro- only in the Philippines where can- how overlooked to delineate the fi ne and thin line between land- certifi cate issued and endorsed for technical offi cer (ETO) under Reg didates have to pass a licensure based and sea-based workers and their respective industries, there masters, offi cers and GMDSS ra- III/6 and Electro-technical rating exam before they are required to at- arises a need to have a distinct law that shall govern the deploy- dio operators in accordance with (ETR) under Reg III/7, baccalau- tend necessary courses to complete ment of Filipino seafarers overseas and the industry where they the provisions of chapters II, III, IV reate courses, such as Electrical certifi cation requirements. specifi cally belong. or VII of this annex and entitling the Engineering (EE) and Electronic The 2010 Manila Amendments to Republic Act No. 10022, offi cially known as “An Act Amending lawful holder thereof to serve in the and Communications Engineering the STCW Convention has opened Republic Act No. 8042, Otherwise Known as the Migrant Workers capacity and perform the functions (ECE) must be bridged the way Me- the doors wide on opportunities for and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995, As Amended, Further Improving involved at the level of responsibility chanical Engineering was bridged the Philippines to put its acts togeth- the Standard of Protection and Promotion of the Welfare of Migrant specifi ed therein.” to Marine Engineering. er. Hopefully, the maritime education Workers, Their Families and Overseas Filipinos in Distress, and For Another STCW defi nition – “Cer- This column sees no point in and training regime of the country is tifi cate of Profi ciency (COP) means doing it. It is like telling the world within the radar scanner of His Ex- TURN TO PAGE 19 a certifi cate, other than a certifi cate that our college graduates from EE cellency, President Noynoy Aquino. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 7 8 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

Engr. Nelson Ramirez and his wife Marilyn attended the ground-breaking rites for Bright Martime Corporation’s building that shall soon rise along Flores Street in Ermita, Manila. The ground-break- ing rites were led by BMC President Desiree Sillar and VP and Chief Financial Of- fi cer Nancy Ebron along with some of its employ- ees and select guests from the local maritime industry.

The UFS President also made a courtesy call recently on Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Ad- ministrator Carmelita Dimson and other top offi cials of the agency includng Ms. Emma Sinclair and Mr. Saul T. De Vries, Regional Director. Leaders of the Philippine Association of Migrant Workers and Advocates (PAMWA) recently made a courtesy call on the new offi cials of Home Development Mutual Fund (PAG-IBIG Fund). Shown (from left) are: Amado I. Dizon, Manager P10G, Olivia V. Zerrudo, Manager, Makati III, Jaime A. Fabiana, CEO of PAG-IBIG; Sister Bernadette of the Center for Overseas Workers,Gina Espinosa of Kaibigan ng OCW, Nellie Sotto of KAKAMPI, Luther Calderon of KAMPI, Engr. Nelson Ramirez of the UFS, Magdalena Acsay, P10G and Alexander H. G. Aguilar, Senior Vice President.

Engr. Ramirez explaining the problems of Filipino seafarers on absentee voting during the PMRW’s Public Forum held on Engr. Nelson P. Ramirez and Atty. July 29, 2010 at the Bayview Park Philson Co (right) receiving their Hotel that was participated in by Certifi cates of Appreciation from C/E representatives of various OFW Ramon Deseo Jr., 2/E Wingky Lo- organizations. pez and 3/E Ryan Oafericua (former UFS volunteer staff who is currently teaching at the Technological Institute of the Philippines) for serving as re- source persons during TIP’s Pre-Em- ployment Orientation Seminar for its graduating maritime students.

New MARINA Administrator Emerson Lorenzo assuring Engr. Ramirez that there will be no delay in the issuance of Seafarer’s Identifi cation and Record Book (SIRB) and that Masters and Chief Engineers will be accorded a special The UFS President is shown with Capt. Express Lane at MARINA. Rey Casareo (right), President of Car- go Safeway, and Capt. Ciriaco Torres during the PMMA Alumni Fellowship Night held at Hyatt Hotel and Casino on August 27, 2010.

The UFS President also took part in the Migrant NGO Forum with Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista. Among those in the caucus with Mayor Bistek were Virgie Pasalo of Women in Engr. Ramirez was among the guests during the inauguration of the new offi ces of Sea Power Shipping Development, Dori Espiritu of Advancing the Status of Women Worldwide, Sister Bernadete of Enterprises, Inc. in Mandaluyong City. He is shown at one table with Ms. Desiree Sillar, Ms. Nancy the Center for Overseas Workers, Luther Calderon of KAMPI, and Gina Espinosa of Kaibigan ng Ebron, Atty. Marilyn Cacho-Domingo and two UFS boys enjoying a hearty dinner during the event. OCW. Also present during the huddle were some of the staff of Mayor Bautista. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 9 10 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 UFS Renews Partnership with Filinvest n its continued quest to provide its As part of its commitment to the seafarer-members and their respective partnership, UFS will coordinate with, and Igrowing families with housing and refer to Filinvest, all inquiries of its members shelter, the United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) to assure the accurate, clear, and effective has renewed its partnership with Filinvest presentation of the terms and conditions Land, Inc., one of the country’s reputable of any proposed purchase of property or property developers known for providing condominium units in any of Filinvest’s Filipino families with affordable, modern development projects. and functional homes. Also on request by Filinvest, the UFS The Memorandum of Agreement shall provide information, data, studies, and between the UFS and Filinvest was offi cially records in whatever form, not otherwise signed in casual ceremonies on August 26, privileged, that would assist Filinvest in 2010 at the showroom of Beaufort at the the promotion, marketing or planning of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Beaufort development projects that can be made is one of the premier high-rise projects available to UFS members and other of Filinvest and is considered part of the Filipino seafarers, and the local maritime millionaires’ row at the Global City. industry in general. Engr. Nelson Ramirez, President of the Engr. Ramirez also encouraged Filinvest UFS, and Mr. Jing Concepcion, Project to outrightly put on their advertisements or Group Head of Filinvest, signed the MOA promotional literatures the exact amount on behalf of the parties. Mr. Concepcion of discount the company is willing to signed for Filinvest President Joseph Yap. Engr. Nelson Ramirez is shown signing the UFS-Filinvest Memorandum of Agreement. Immedi- give UFS members in the event that the Under the agreement, every UFS ately thereafter, Mr. Jing Concepcion (seated, fourth from left), Project Group Head of Filinvest seafarers agree to purchase properties or member who expresses intention to signed the agreement on behalf of the real estate development fi rm. On hand to witness the signing condominium units from Filinvest. are the sales and marketing teams of Filinvest and several staff of the UFS. purchase real estate properties or UFS will not be earning from the condominium units shall be encouraged to high-rise development projects in the Filinvest is likewise given the option partnership with Filinvest because Engr. purchase properties or condominium units pages of Tinig ng Marino beginning with to extend the advertising arrangement Ramirez made it clear that whatever being offered by Filinvest from its array of the September – October 2010 issue up to with Tinig ng Marino should it deem the commission scheme that the company has land and high-rise development projects all July – August 2011 issue initially on a non- promotion necessary or imperative in the for its account executives, the union simply over the country. exclusive basis. local maritime industry. wants the commission due it be translated In order to promote the development Advertising exclusivity of the agreement The MOA is actually a renewal of the as direct price discount to availing seafarer- projects of Filinvest, the company also shall take effect only for the portion of the formal tie-up forged between UFS and members. agreed to advertise most of its land and agreement for 2011. Filinvest in 2008. TURN TO PAGE 42 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 11 12 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 13 UGONG NG MAKINA ENGR. NELSON P. RAMIREZ AT IKOT NG ELISI na portfolio assessment na lang ang NAC Most Outstanding Marine Engineer Officer, PRC, 1996 Certifi cates at nang maibalik muli ang Walk-in Most Outstanding Student, ZNSAT, 1970 Examination System mula sa pansamantala Outstanding Achiever of the Year, Province of Zamboanga del Norte, 2006 nitong pagkasuspindi. Sa ngayon, sinisikap natin na maging portfolio assessment na lang din ang COC sa TESDA dahil ginagawa Wakasan ang Kalabisan lang itong pagkakaperahan ng mga buwitre sa industriya na naglipana sa T.M. Kalaw aisulat ko minsan sa pitak kong ito at nabahala nang inameyendahan ang mayroon tayong sariling batas para sa ating sa Luneta. Nangyayari ang mga nasabing ang tungkol sa mahiwagang simulated R. A. 8042 o Migrant Workers and Overseas mga marino na nagtatrabaho sa mga barko assessment dahil ang mga assessors noong Nsimulator. Maaaring mayroong Filipinos Act of 1995. Nang nagkaroon kasi ng na bumibiyahe sa ibat-ibang parte sa buong araw ay hindi kwalipikadong magsagawa ng magtatanong kung ano ang simulated konsultasyon ang Gancayco Commission at mundo dahil kakaiba naman talaga ang ating assessment. simulator lalo na sa mga hindi nakabasa sa habang isinusulat ang Migrant Workers Act katayuan sa mga nagtatrabaho sa lupa o Ngunit sa ngayon, hindi na tinatanggap una kong sinulat tungkol dito. Ang simulator noong taong 1995, ang UFS lang ang tanging land-based workers. ang isang instructor sa isang training center ay isang kagamitan kung saan ginagawa na organisasyon ng mga marino na aktibong ******* kung hindi siya nagtapos ng assessor course. parang tunay ang isang totoong pangyayari. nakilahok sa mga ginagawang pagpupulong. Maraming nagpasalamat sa atin magmula Kaya ang mga assessment sa mga tinuturing Ang simulated simulator na gawa yata sa Kaya bagamat marami tayong naibigay na nang nakukuha na muli sa loob ng isang araw na assessment centers na accredited kuno ng Raon o Evangelista sa Quiapo, ay isang mahahalagang punto sa mga pag-uusap, ang Seafarer’s Identifi cation and Record TESDA ay isang kalabisan at pagpapahirap peke na pineke pa dahil ang takbo ng barko halos hindi nabanggit ang katagang ‘seafarer’ Book (SIRB) o seaman’s book. Ganoon din lang sa ating mga marino na dapat nang sa simulated simulator ay nagmimistulang sa nasabing batas. Nararapat lang talaga na nang ginawa ng Maritime Training Council wakasan. ibon sa shooting gallery sa peryahan. May mga nadenggoy din at nakabili ng simulated simulator na noon ay nagkakahalaga ng mahigit sa isang milyong piso. Sa palagay ko, ang mismong nagbebenta ng simulated simulator ay hindi rin naniniwala sa kanyang produktong binebenta dahil bumili na rin siya ng isang tunay na simulator. Ngunit, naging bad news naman ito sa nagbenta sa kanya dahil hindi niya binayaran ang nabiling simulator. Pinasok diumano ng mga pirata ang industriya ng simulator. Sa madaling salita, nagkalat daw ang sangkaterbang mga piratang simulator at hindi mapahinto ng nagbebenta sa kanya ang mga piratadong simulator. Nalulugi na raw siya. Mabuti na lang ang kaibigan niyang nag-enganyo sa kanya na bumili ng simulator ay tumulong naman sa kanya at binigyan pa siya ng technician. Itong kanyang kaibigan ay dating consultant ng isang may-ari ng barko na marami ang namatay na inosenteng pasahero. Ang problema, pagkatapos maayos ang kanyang problema, inakusahan niya ang kanyang kaibigan na ninakaw ang importanteng parte ng kanyang simulator kaya hindi na naman ito gumagana. Ano kaya ang mangyayari kung magkikita silang tatlo? Isa kaya itong umaatikabong bakbakan? May kasabihan nga tayo sa wikang Ingles: There is no honor among thieves. Abangan na lang natin ang susunod na kabanata. ******* Ipinaliwanag namin sa isyung ito kung bakit hindi kami sang-ayon sa paghawak ng Harbour Centre sa Manila North Harbor. Alam nating lahat na bagamat anu-anong paliwanag na ang ginawa ng R-II Builders ukol sa Smokey Mountain Development and Reclamation Project at Harbour Center, nabigo pa rin silang kumuha ng mga parokyano na gumamit sa kanilang daungan. Ito ay isang patunay na palpak ang Harbour Centre. Nagtataka lang ako kung bakit nagpapagamit ang isang kasama nating taga-media upang maipakita lang na may mga grupo na sumasang-ayon sa pamamalakad ng Harbour Centre sa Manila North Harbor. Nasabi tuloy ng isa kong kumpare na siguro dahil lang sa matinding pangangailangan sa pera kaya niya nagawang ibenta ang kaluluwa niya kay Satanas. Tandaan mo kaibigan, ang perang ibinigay ni Taning ay babawiin din ni Taning. Mangayayat at manghina ka sana. ******* Muli na naman nating tinutukan ngayon ang Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. Nakita na natin kung papaano tayo naaapektuhan 14 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 New Government Agency for OFWs Proposed ustice Secretary Leila de Lima has tion of the rights, well-being and interest of endorsed to Malacañang the creation overseas Filipinos, and organize working Jof the Consultative Council on Over- groups to coordinate and supervise matters seas Filipinos (CCOF) for the protection relative to the achievement of its mandate and promotion of overseas Filipino workers’ and objectives. (OFWs) rights. As proposed, the CCOF shall be chaired One OFW, Rodelio Celestino Lanuza, by the DOLE and initially co-chaired for the is scheduled to be executed soon in the fi rst three years by the Philippine Migrants Kingdom of Saudi Arabia having been sen- Rights Watch (PMRW), that thereafter, the tenced to death by beheading for killing a co-chair position will be on rotation basis Saudi Arabian national. Lanuza, married among the CCOF Civil Society Organiza- and the father of two, has been languishing tion (CSO) members and that the Philip- at the Damman Central Jail since August pine Overseas Employment Administration 15, 2000 for the killing, which he claimed (POEA) shall serve as secretariat. was committed in self-defense. De Lima said the EO is consistent with In her legal opinion no. 32, De Lima in- the Constitution that states that the state terposed no legal objection to the proposed shall afford full protection to labor, local and executive order (EO) establishing the Con- overseas, organized and unorganized and sultative Council on Overseas Filipinos promote full employment and equality of headed by the Department of Labor and employment opportunities for all. Employment (DOLE). She endorsed the At the same time, the EO is also consis- EO for approval to President Aquino. tent with Republic Act 8042 (Migrant Work- The proposed CCOF shall, among oth- ers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995) ers, serve a regular consultative forum on Section 2 (f) that states the right of Filipino all issues and concerns affecting overseas migrant workers and all overseas Filipinos Filipinos and will also assist concerned to participate in the democratic decision- agencies in the formulation, implementa- making processes of the state and to be tion and evaluation of policies, programs represented in institutions relevant to over- and services affecting overseas Filipinos. seas employment is recognized and guar- Another task of the CCOF is to mobilize anteed. participation of the private sector on mat- ters relevant to the protection and promo- TURN TO PAGE 19 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 15 VAST HORIZON C/ENGR. RODOLFO B. VIRTUDAZO Outstanding Seafarer of the Year, NSD, 1998 Most Outstanding Marine Engineer Officer, PRC, 1999 Technical Superintendent, Southfield Agencies, Inc. God’s Love is New Every Morning

Our prayer community is a testimony of We now belong to the newly-created around. It is a respite from life’s anxieties. It hope that if we entrust our homes to God Diocese of Novaliches that consists of the allows us to focus on Him, who, in a fl ick of THE STEADFAST love of the Lord never while we are working abroad, we will always former Quezon City-North District, with Bishop a fi nger, can actually wipe away fretfulness ceases, His faithfulness never comes to fi nd our family intact and in good hands just Antonio Tobias as the installed Bishop. and that forsaken feeling, even wars and “an end; they are new every morning, new like when we left it. I was privileged to carry the image of calamities. every morning, great is thy faithfulness, Oh We are reminded that no amount of Jesus Christ that was carefully and lovingly It was a Good Friday when I received Lord… great is thy faithfulness.” success can make up for failed parenting. At brought down during the ceremony of the the good news from Ruben C. Romero, our These were part of the lyrics of the the end of the day, what matters most is our Veneration of the Holy Cross on Good Friday Managing Director at Southfi eld Agencies, song that was sung on our silver wedding relationship with our family. When it feels like (that went well, thank God, after an hour that I would be engaged as a superintendent anniversary by a priest friend Rev. Fr. Rene the end of the road, when the light of faith or so of instructions and practices with my with Patt Manfi eld, a Hong Kong-based ship Ruelos, CM, together with our guests. Since threatens to become no more than a fl icker, brothers in the ministry). The experience management company. I couldn’t contain my then, I have found that song signifi cant. I when fi nancial woes and worries creep in, our plus the solemnity of the celebration had overwhelming joy and pride for the big break would hum it every now and then and would sharing and concern for each other bring us impacted me. Unworthy I may be, but there I bestowed on me. Truly, Holy Week is not a feel inexplicably refreshed. I could relate my back to recalling God’s fi delity to His people. was, chosen by God to be among those who symbol of death, but of life and triumph that life to that song, at how God has continuously And how we celebrate God’s goodness and would take care of the image of the crucifi ed lead us to Easter glory! refreshed and nourished my marriage. victory in our life! Christ and of the Cross which is a sign of His So, though a bit forlorn whenever I get out Our prayer community, where Fr. Rene is Just like the song, God’s love is new, too, incredible love, the instrument that brought of the country on our wedding anniversary, I the spiritual director, has taught me to entrust every Holy Week. It has the same theme and joy to the world. I couldn’t explain the feeling. felt relief in my heart knowing that this new everything to God. It is 80% composed of rituals but it brings new depth and meaning My wife also said that she and the others post is His gift to me. I would be able to use wives, parents, brothers or sisters of OFWs, to my life. were on the verge of tears when they kissed again the knowledge and experience that I who pray not only for their loved ones but How glad I was that during the last Holy the Cross, the symbol of our redemption and had gained for 30 years at sea. also for all the migrant workers. Not one in Week, I was land-based. It was different liberation. God nurtures not only my married life, but our prayer community has a failed marriage because it was with our new parish priest, On a personal point of view, Holy Week also my career to bring fresh challenges and or a broken home despite the threat of Msgr. Romy Rañada, who is untiring in his is a gift to us mortals down here because it fulfi llment. I kept refl ecting on these thoughts globalization that, as they say, has brought effort to give new awareness and fresh is a wonderful opportunity to give us rest not as I heard Mass abroad and I could only material fulfi llment for some but has wreaked insight on the spirituality of the Our Lady of only from our sinfulness but also from the praise and thank Him for His goodness and havoc on many Filipino families. the Annunciation Parish. seemingly never-ending hustling and bustling faithfulness. 16 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SAILOR’S CORNER

ATTY. AUGUSTO R. BUNDANG dismissed. The NLRC granted the claim Head, Litigation and Seafarers Department of the heirs but the Court of Appeals ruled Sapalo Velez Bundang & Bulilan Law Offices otherwise and held that death arising from a pre-existing illness is not compensable. Elevating the case further the Supreme Court also denied the death claim of the AIDS heirs. Applying Section 20(A) of the 1996 After undergoing the required pre- and anemia. POEA Standard Employment Contract employment medical examination (PEME), Two months thereafter, he was (SEC), the Supreme Court ruled that since an the heirs of a seafarer, found to the seafarer in the said case entered into repatriated to the Philippines and underwent the seafarer’s death happened not during be HIV positive who died two years a one-year employment contract with his continuous medical treatment. He died his contract term, but two years thereafter Cafter repatriation, claim for payment employers as First Engineer and boarded two years later with pneumonia as the upon his repatriation, his heirs are not of death benefi ts? In the case of Lydia the vessel accordingly. immediate cause of his death, tuberculosis entitled to death benefi ts. Escarcha. et. al. vs. Leonis Navigation Barely a month after coming onboard, and several diseases as antecedent On the point that the seafarer’s work Co., Inc. and/or World Marine Panama, he suffered from serious “febrile illness” causes, and acquired immune defi ciency triggered or worsened his illnesses which S. A.(G.R. No. 182740) decided last July and was found to have advanced human syndrome (AIDS) as the underlying cause. caused his death, the High Court found the 5, 2010, the Supreme Court answered the immunodefi ency virus (HIV) disease aside His heirs sought payment of death heirs to have failed to present evidence question in the negative. from tuberculosis, cardiac dysrhythmias, benefi ts which the labor arbiter however, showing how the seafarer’s working conditions brought on or aggravated the illnesses that led to his death. AIDS was not found to be work-related and records showed that it was a pre- existing illness which the seafarer did not disclose during his PEME. The Court observed that the nature of HIV and AIDS negates the claim that the seafarer’s illnesses which caused his death were acquired during his employment onboard the vessel because he passed his employer’s PEME. It went on to conclude that by a process of elimination, the seafarer could have acquired his AIDS only through sexual transmission since there was no record on the part of the seafarer of blood transfusion while he was onboard. The Court added that established medical literature shows that AIDS does not reach such an advanced stage in two months or the same period of time which the seafarer spent onboard the vessel prior to his repatriation. A review of the Escarcha case points to the importance of choosing at the very onset, the correct remedy which an aggrieved seafarer or his heirs should undertake in order to redress their grievances. Determining whether to fi le a death, illness, disability or dismissal claim is crucial in ultimately arriving at a favorable judgment. Signifi cantly, on the subject of work-relatedness, there is no denying the relevance of substantially proving how a particular illness, which may even be inactive when the seafarer boarded the ship, worsened by reason of his work and after certain work-connected incidents took place.

[Atty. Augusto ‘Tito’ Bundang is a regular columnist of BusinessWorld and a partner of Sapalo Velez Bundang & Bulilan Law Offi ces (formerly Sapalo & Velez Law Offi ces). He is also a board member of the Maritime Law Association of the Philippines (MARLAW). A graduate of Ateneo de Manila University, he heads its Litigation and Seafarers Department. Sapalo Velez Bundang & Bulilan Law Offi ces is located at the 11th Floor Security Bank Centre, 6776 Ayala Avenue, Makati City with Tel. No. 891- 13-16] SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 17 18 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 become the source of alleged anomalies in the department, it would also lessen the burden of Filipino seafarers of going UFS Seeks Abolition of through another layer of assessment,” the UFS President elaborates. “At present, the TESDA assessment is being done by private assessment Assessment of Seafarer Ratings centers which are accredited by TESDA. Such assessment is just a duplication of TESDA Pushes for Shared Responsibility and Accountability the National Assessment Center (NAC) assessment. It should be made similar he United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) to the assessment is seeking the abolition of the process recently put Tassessment being made on Filipino in place by the NAC seafarer ratings by private assessment under the Maritime centers accredited by the Technical Training Council (MTC), Education Skills and Development through the initiative Authority (TESDA). of Executive Director In a letter addressed to Secretary Paragua which focuses Emmanuel Joel J. Villanueva, Director more on portfolio General of TESDA, dated August 25, 2010, assessment of seafarer the UFS formally sought the abolition of the training certifi cates,” TESDA assessment on seafarer ratings Ramirez stressed. because of growing clamor in the industry. But even before The UFS claims that the system has Ramirez sent the allegedly become a source of corruption, formal position of the as attested to by many Filipino seafarers TESDA certifi cates are also regularly being peddled along at the Luneta Seafarer’s Center along T.M. Kalaw Street. UFS to Secretary who have shared their sob stories with the Joel Villanueva on the maritime union. Ramirez said in his letter. qualifi ed assessors and thus they actually issue, TESDA Executive Director Clifford “We were told that TESDA assessment “Furthermore, TESDA certifi cates are assess the skills and competency of their Paragua had the proposal in the works of seafarer ratings has become so also being peddled along T. M. Kalaw seafarer-trainees, particularly the ratings. already as he already started installing the diffi cult, albeit intentionally, that even Street and this can in fact be attested to So TESDA would actually be relinquishing system at the MTC as its Acting Executive an experienced, skilled and veteran by Director Clifford Paragua himself,” he a function to the training centers but it Director vice Noriel Devanadera who has Filipino seafarer would fail in the process. added. can regularly monitor the assessment of been promoted as undersecretary of the Apparently, in order to pass or ‘circumvent’ “Another reason why we are pushing maritime training centers based on its own Labor Department. the diffi cult TESDA assessment, a seafarer for the abolition of the TESDA assessment assessment standards. And in so doing, “Under the Manila Amendments of the rating has only to cough up PhP5,000 and is the fact that all of the instructors in it would not just free up the agency of a STCW Convention which shall enter into presto, he is sure to get a passing mark,” maritime training centers are already tedious responsibility which has somehow TURN TO PAGE 51 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 19 Making Good Use of One’s Resources Implementing Guidelines for Have you ever wondered what you would the choices we make to be successful. We prefer to become were you born an animal: a have a lot of resources around us, but do we MILA Council Nears Finalization cow or a horse? use those resources for our success? Both animals work hard. Both play signifi - Most of us would like to become a horse, he Technical Working Group of the Department of Labor and Employment cant roles in the lives of their owners. But are right? I’m sure most seafarers would choose Maritime Industry Labor Arbitration (DOLE) offi cially entered into an they treated the same? Let’s describe the role to be like a horse because they want to re- T(MILA) Council is close to fi nalizing agreement with manning agencies and of a good cow. The cow helps the farmer plow ceive the best compensation for their hard the proposed implementing guidelines for Filipino seafarers’ organizations to provide the fi eld the whole day. A cow may sometimes work. Each seafarer has a choice to rise up the eventual operations of the council. for the establishment of a labor arbitration get milked, bred to calve for the beef indus- in position as long as he takes the necessary In the latest meeting of the members of system and the development of voluntary try and to replace another cow in the daily exam, pass it and do what is required of him. the TWG of the MILA Council on August arbitration as an alternative mode of settling herd. With all its efforts, the cow only has But why is it that very few seafarers be- 13, 2010, the fi fth draft of the implementing labor disputes in the maritime industry. grass to eat. When it gets old, the cow is come successful? Very few retire comfort- guidelines has been thoroughly deliberated Then Labor and Employment Secretary sent for slaughter where its skin would later ably. Very few have their own houses and upon and if things go according to Marianito Roque, who was then serving be processed and manufactured into leather lots. Very few can send their children to good schedule, the document can be fi nalized the department in an acting capacity products. colleges, and very few have investments and very soon. vice Secretary Arturo D. Brion who was Now, let’s describe the role of a good horse. savings. The MILA Council formally got off appointed Associated Justice of the A good horse is chosen to become a race Isn’t it that seafarers are the stallions of the ground in March 2008 when the TURN TO PAGE 34 horse. A race horse is given a good horse families? They are the breadwinners that cre- shoe and stays in a stable. A race horse eats ate signifi cant marks in the lives of their fami- only premium quality horse food. With proper lies. They serve as models for their children. The Technical Working training, it can win horse race championships What then is the problem facing our sea- group of the Maritime and may receive awards and recognitions for farers that they are always hard on money? Labor Arbitration (MILA) its hard work. The key to being successful is Is recession still to blame for this problem? Council brainstorming on not just hard work. Another factor consists of Or is it simply due to the attitude and mind- the implmenting guide- lins including Atty. Jess set of seafarers in handling their Sale of AMOSUP, Atty. money? Imee Barcelona of the Don’t be a one-day millionaire Management Sector, Mr. who spends your hard-earned Raymond Joseph Var- money to buy luxury things and gas of MTC, Engr. Nel- forgets to save money and invest son Ramirez of UFS, Mr. to generate a good return of in- Antonio R. Villafuerte, come needed to maintain your and Mr. Kust D. Roma- guin of NCMB. lifestyle. We know that most of our millionaires earn their millions from hard work like Manny Pac- quiao. He trains and works hard EEDITORIAL:DITORIAL: Seafarer Law is a Must to achieve his goals. He has sav- was already too late as the amended law ings, several investments and FROM PAGE 6 starts to take its due course. properties; maintains a high-end Other Purposes,” categorized and classi- But all is not lost for the local indus- lifestyle; generously shares his try and the Filipino seafarers as only a blessings with others; and yet, fi ed seafarers as part of the overall Fili- true seafarer law can provide long-term remains a millionaire. pino migrant workers community yet their As your insurance consultant, concerns and that of the industry have not answers. The United Filipino Seafarers let me help you achieve the life- been considered or consulted in its formu- buckled down to work on this notion and style of a millionaire that you lation until it was too late to make an input, lobbied with Partylist Representative Em- dream of. We, at Pru Life UK, or at best be heard or considered, in the ily Aglipay to author the counterpart bill in will help you secure and enhance deliberation process. the Lower House, who personally made your life and your lifestyle in the The most that the local industry could the commitment and assurance to sup- years ahead. think of is to at least have a say in the draft- port the enactment of the Magna Carta Let the race begin! ing of the Implementing Rules and Regu- of Filipino Seafarers and fi nally turn the Aileen T. Ello | Pru Life UK Li- lations (IRR) for RA 10022. Even then, it long-sought dream into a reality. censed Insurance Consultant Email : [email protected] Mobile : +63 920 9510388 New Government Agency for OFWs Proposed Reference: “A Gift from a Friend” FROM PAGE 14 by Merry Riana De Lima, meanwhile, commented that the pro- posed EO clearly stated that the DOLE shall be the overall chair of the coun- cil. However, De Lima said the EO is not clear on the issue of the “co-chairs.” It stated that the council shall initially (be) co-chaired for the fi rst three years by the PMRW. Thereafter, the co-chair Leaders of different migrant workers groups who form the position will be on rotation Consultative Council on OFWs, including Engr. Nelson Ramirez of basis among CCOF CSO the UFS, meeting with POEA Deputy Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac and OWWA Deputy Administrator Delmer Cruz to discuss members. various concerns. The EO, according to De Lima, did not specifi cally state that provisions and thus, may create possible the order of rotation among the members, confl ict and confusion among and between which leaves for an interpretation of its CSO members in the future. 20 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 21 UFS Makes Return to National Maritime Week fter a two-year hiatus, the United the government agency has made available Filipino Seafarers (UFS) will be back in within the reach of Filipino seafarers and their Aharness as an active participant to this families to be able to realize that long-sought year’s celebration of the National Maritime dream of having their very own homes. Week slated from September 20 – 25, 2010. Representatives of Banco De Oro will then The line-up of activities of the maritime take their turn on the podium from 2 to 3 in union is slated on September 22, 2010, the the afternoon where they are expected to talk third day of the week-long event at the Luneta about the various products that they have Seafarer’s Center along T.M. Kalaw Street in made available to Filipino seafarers and their Ermita, Manila. families. The day-long activity, which is initially called During the entire day of the UFS-LUSWELF ‘Kapihan sa Luneta’ will be a collaboration activity, the UFS will provide free coffee and between the UFS and the Luneta Seafarers snacks to participating Filipino seafarers. Welfare Foundation (LUSWELF), along with The opening program of the National other sponsors and supporters from both the Maritime Week will kick off on the morning government and the private sector. of September 20th to be followed in the Engr. Nelson P. Ramirez, President of afternoon by the National Seafarer’s Day the UFS, shall kicked off the program with a Oratorical Contest. forum to be called the ‘UFS Hour’ where he A medical-dental mission would be held will open himself for any questions on issues during the entire day of September 22 while related to the maritime industry and seafaring a day-long karaoke challenge, aptly entitled that Filipino seafarers may wish to ask him or ‘Boses ng Marino’ is slated on September be informed about. 23rd that will run simultaneously with the NSD In addition to Engr. Ramirez, a couple of Poster Design Contest in the afternoon. known industry personalities have also been A boodle fi ght for all Filipino seafarers at invited to serve as resource persons during the Luneta Seafarer’s Center shall highlight the two-hour public and no-holds barred open the fi rst half of September 24 before the forum. awarding ceremonies in the afternoon. Offi cials of Home Development Mutual The UFS shall also participate in the Fund or Pag-IBIG shall then take center stage Coastal Cleanup Activity of Manila Bay slated on the following hour from 10 to 11 in the on September 25, 2010 as a support group to morning. They are expected to discuss the the participation of INC Navigation Company housing loan and other fi nancial packages that Philippines, Inc. 22 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 23 PISOBILITIES FRANCISCO J. COLAYCO maraming miyembro at malaking pinagsan- Chairman, Colayco Foundation for Education ib na kapital upang makapagsimula nang Entrepreneur, Venture Developer and Financial Advisor maayos. Dahil sa mga hamon na humarap sa grupo, minsan ko nang ipinanukala na ibalik na lamang ang pera ng mga miyem- bro. Ngunit ang mga miyembro na kasama KsKCoop namin ay desididong magpatuloy kami bagama’t limitado ang kapital. Ayon sa estadistika, hindi hihigit sa • Mas madali nang gawing cash ang At sa wakas, naging kapansin-pan- 15% ng pumapasok sa negosyo ay nag- kontribusyon ng bawat miyembro kung sin ang asenso ng samahan sa 2009, at ara sa may mga kapamilya at kaibi- tatagumpay. Karaniwang nalulugi ang 85% sakaling may matinding pangangailangan. mukhang mas malaking tagumpay ang gan sa Pinas, nais kong pagtuunan at napipilitang bumalik sa pagiging empley- • Mas malaking pagkakataong kumita nangyayari na! Tingnan ang www.kskcoop. Pnatin ng pansin ang mga kapana- ado (kung susuwertehin). nang malaki at regular dahil may sapat na com para sa karagdagang impormasyon. panabik na kaganapan sa Kapatiran sa laki ang pinagsanib na pondo kung kaya’t Bilang buod, ang sumusunod ang Pan- Kasaganahan Service and Multi-purpose KUNG GAYON, ANO ANG MAAARING bibigyang atensiyon ito ng mga pinaka- gunahing Layunin ng Kapatiran sa Kasaga- Cooperative (KsKCoop) na isang Invest- GAWIN NG 85%? maasahan at propesyunal na investment naan Service & Multipurpose Coop (Ksk- ment Cooperative na sinimulan ng mga bankers. Coop): OFW sa Hong Kong. Ang pagsali sa mga kooperatiba ang • Mas pinaigting na koneksiyon sa 1. Tumipon ng pondo mula sa mga miy- Sinimulan ko ang KsK Seminar Series sunod na pinakamainam. Tiyak na maliit pinakamahusay na propesyunal na pan- embro ng kooperatiba upang makapag- sa Hong Kong dahil naniniwala akong la- at kapos ang kapital ng iisang indibidwal. gangasiwa. sagawa ng mga negosyo na parehong pag- hat sa atin – lalo na ang mga OFW – ay Ngunit kung pagsasanibin ng isang grupo • Siguradong suportang pampinansiyal aari ng kooperatiba at ng mga miyembrong gustong matutunan ang Personal Finance, ang kanilang mga puhunan, talento, at mga para sa mga makabuluhang proyekto (o maglalagak ng personal na karagdagang mahahalagang gabay sa pagpapapalago koneksiyon, makakabuo sila ng mas matin- venture) kontribusyon. ng kayamanan, at pamamahala ng kita at ding investment force na hindi makakamit • Mas matibay na kasiguraduhan na 2. Magtatag ng isang investment fund utang. kung nagkani-kaniya sila. magpapatuloy ang pag-unlad. kung saan maaaring direktang ipuhunan ng Naitatag at nirehistro ang KsKCoop sa Kasama ang Executive Director ng Co- Noon man, ngayon, at kahit sa hinaha- mga miyembro ang kanilang sariling ipon. Pilipinas noong Setyembre 23, 2004 at nag- layco Foundation na si Armand Bengco, rap, may mga hamon nang hinarap at ha- 3. Magtatag ng Venture Fund na magig- ing tulay ito upang makamit ng mga miyem- isinulong namin ang mga sumusunod para harapin ang KsKCoop. Kinailangan naming ing katuwang na mamuhunan ng mga miy- bro ang “kalayaan mula sa kakapusan.” Sa sa mga miyembro ng KsKCoop: ituro sa lahat ang vision at mission ng KsK- embro na may makabuluhang proyekto. tulong ng pinagsamahang-lakas ng mga • Mas maraming pamumuhunan at ne- Coop, at bukod pa riyan, pinagmuni-mu- 4. Tulungan, turuan, at himukin ang mga kontribusyon ng mga miyembro, pinalalago gosyo na nagkakaloob ng mataas na tubo. nihan rin ang katatagan ng CFE Team sa miyembro sa pamamagitan ng edukasyong ng KsKCoop ang yaman sa pamamagitan • Mas malaking probabilidad na walang pagsulong sa KsKCoop. pampinansiyal. ng mga ipon (savings) at pamumuhunan mababawas sa kontribusyon ng bawat miy- Noong 2005 pa lamang, inuulit-ulit ko (investments). embro. ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaroon ng TURN TO PAGE 42 24 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), design competition. For the fi rst category, Marine Engineer Offi cers Association of the P100,000 for the fi rst prize and P50,000 SONAME to Name Design Contest Philippines (MEOAP), the Philippine Inter- for the second prize are at stake. For the th island Shipping Association (PISA), and second category, P150,000 for the fi rst prize Winners on 64 Anniversary several others. he Society of Naval Architects and on their functionality and cost-effectiveness. Cash prizes await the winners of the TURN TO PAGE 36 Marine Engineers Inc. (SONAME) will The contestants also Tannounce the result of its “Ships and improved their ship Boat Design Contest 2010” on October 29, designs and ship 2010 and will be the highlight of the society’s construction skills 64th Anniversary celebration. by using the latest Carrying the theme “By Filipinos, For technology including Filipinos,” the ships and boat design tilt was computer-aided design opened to all SONAME members (except and production. Honorary Members). There were two Entries were categories of design entry. The fi rst category judged by a panel was a passenger ferry capable of making up composed of people to four-hour voyage and the second was a from known agency cargo/passenger ferry. and organizations The entries were evaluated last May based in the industry like

Engr. Sam Lim (middle), President of SONAME and Engr. Edward Cruz (second from left), member of the PRC Board for Naval Architects, are shown being fl anked by fresh graduates of Naval Architecture. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 25 26 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

Wallem Shipmanagement Ltd., through Wallem Donald Sagun: Wallem Maritime Services, Inc.,” he further narrated. WMSI actually took in Cadet Par Excellence four cadets at the PMMA starting in school year allem Maritime Services, Inc. especially those brimming with good 2006–07, the three others (WMSI), the manning agent potentials, Donald is a classic example of for its Greek principal, Wof Wallem Shipmanagement how determination, strong will, drive, and Tsakos Columbia Ltd. of Hong Kong (WSM), struck gold passion to become an excellent seafarer Shipmanagement (“TCM”) in investing on a Philippine Merchant can actually surpass whatever odds that S.A. Marine Academy (PMMA) cadet four may come along the way. From then on, years ago who now shows good potential Born from a family that practically lives Donald threaded a new on becoming the next seafaring success on a hand-to-mouth existence, Donald is professional path at the story in their company. the second of the fi ve children of Danilo, academy. While seafaring Donald Sagun, who copped a a fi sherman, and Marilyn, a fi sh vendor in may not have been his Deck Cadet Donald Sagun has proven his mettle at the academy the town of Bolitoc-Longos, Sta. Cruz in fi rst choice as a career, Presidential Award with High Distinction under the full sponsorship of Wallem. when he graduated from Zambales. it was nonetheless the his Bachelor of Science in Although well on his I still decided to shift course because I profession where his heart and mind Maritime Transportation way to completing his BS know that I was doing it for them. It was led him to. No wonder, he excelled in course at the PMMA on May Accountancy Course he took already March 2006 then and the PMMA his academics despite the rigorous and 22, 2010, has been Wallem’s up in a college in Olongapo was already starting to conduct its medical traditional physical routines at the PMMA. pride at the academy since City, the thought of pursuing examination for cadet-applicants,” Donald “When you enter the Academy, your school year 2006-07. a seafaring career entered recalls. work on your fi rst day is also your work Handpicked by Wallem Donald’s mind when he was “So I opted to solicit the support of my on the next day and on the days onward from a batch of exceptional cadets able to talk to a close friend who eventually eldest sister, who was working in Taiwan as until you graduate. It’s a routine and you chosen under the Norwegian Shipowners nurtured in him the goal of alleviating the an OFW. She sent me money for my medical just have to get used to it. No ifs, no buts. Association (NSA) cadetship program at economic condition of his family. exam at the academy. But the meager You should also follow the rules because the PMMA, Donald has certainly proven “When I told my parents that I want to amount was still not enough to provide for discipline is a must in the Academy. It is a his mettle under the full sponsorship of pursue a seafaring career, they refuted all my other needs in taking a crack at being major key in achieving what you want to the Hong Kong-based ship management the idea because they said that I still have a cadet at the PMMA. I still had to convince achieve in life,” Donald explains. company in completing his four-year deck siblings who also want to study. They my parents to support me just the same On his third year as a deck student, course at the academy, with fl ying colors obviously do not want my fi rst few years and after some serious considerations, Donald had his shipboard apprenticeship at that. in college go to waste just like that. At that they fi nally relented. I passed the entrance onboard MV Shourong, a bulk carrier Apart from being a clear testament on time, I was already on my third year in BS exam at the PMMA and was taken into how good Wallem takes care of its people Accountancy. Despite their objections, the NSA cadetship program, assigned to TURN TO PAGE 45 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 27 28 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 IINCNC iiss FFirstirst LocalLocal ManningManning FirmFirm toto Obtain ISO Environmental Certification

halk up another important part of yet again of another milestone and community,” milestone for INC Navigation accomplishment for INC Manila. urged the INC Manila CCompany Philippines, Inc. and the In his opening remarks during the Operations Manager local maritime industry in general. short program, Capt. Rondina recalled in concluding his The company offi cially became the time when INC Manila fi rst began its remarks. the fi rst local manning fi rm to have an environmental initiatives. “Three years ago, A short video environmental management system that our offi ce started taking steps to conserve presentation by Capt. conforms to the ISO global standard as energy, and recycle our resources such as Sam Jimenez on certifi ed by an international certifying paper. This had a considerable impact in the environmental body. reducing our operational costs. It has since management system On August 24, 2010, INC Navigation become part of the company’s system.” and environmental Company Philippines, Inc. offi cially “In order to show our commitment to initiative of INC Manila received its ISO 14001:2004 Certifi cate this end, our company under the initiative was subsequently from Germanischer Lloyd (GL) after the of our CEO Capt. Delos Angeles with the made with the company’s environmental management support of the management team, had company’s tree- system has been found to be fully taken one step further by involving GL in planting activity at the compliant with ISO standard. our endeavour starting last year. Capt. La Mesa Watershed ISO 14001:2004 is the international Samson ‘Sam’ Jimenez was subsequently on June 26, 2010 standard for as the culminating environmental event, highlighted management system, by tons of pictures which governs the in the interesting use of resources environmental video and protection of clip. the environment in Mr. Rey Ramirez general. The system took the task of also includes energy introducing the special conservation and guest for the program waste management. but not before The three Rs which elaborating some stand for reduce, reuse more on how INC and recycle are the Manila came to the fundamental premises decision of employing of a corporate environmental environmental management system management system. Capt. Delos Angeles of INC and Dr. Holger Manzke of GL ‘actual- and how the support of Capt. Jerome Delos Angeles, CEO of INC Navigation Company Philippines prou Right at the onset of izing’ the backdrop of the event as the manning company receives its the management and ISO 14001:2004 Certifi cate. The entire management team of INC was manischer Lloyd (GL) on August 24, 2010. He is shown being fl anked by (from left): its initial involvement also on hand for the milestone accomplishment. staff and its Filipino Manager of Interorient Marine Services of Cyprus, Ms. Rose Mesina, INC Manila F with INC Navigation seafarers contributed Station Manager of GL, Mr. Rey Ramirez, INC Manila President, and Capt. Nesias Company Philippines beginning in 2009 appointed as Environmental Management in hastening the in ensuring that the latter’s environmental Representative. He had done a lot in company’s environmental certifi cation. to congratulate the INC Manila team for doing a management system and endeavours the preparation and fi nalization of the “Being owners and operators of tankers, good job towards this end,” he cited. are in accordance with international company’s environmental management our head offi ce in Cyprus gives utmost He even shared that in his home in Cyprus, he standard, GL has found regard for the protection of the marine and his family INC Manila to be primed environment and the overall surroundings of three also for certifi cation. By the fi nal in general. Awareness on marine take steps to audit made in March 2010, it environmental protection is also very conserve energy was pretty clear with GL that high among INC seafarers and the head and resources. INC Navigation Company offi ce wants that this consciousness on He mentioned Philippines has made the the environment be translated and carried in particular how grade to be accorded the ISO over to the branches and every shore-staff they recycle 14001:2004 Certifi cate. in different parts of the world,” explains the every ounce The INC management INC Manila President. of water that team led by Capt. Jerome “From there, the move to establish goes in to their Delos Angeles, CEO, Mr. environmental management systems in the home every Reynaldo Ramirez, President, INC offi ces switched to high gear. The ISO day in an effort and Rose Mesina, Finance 14001:2004 Certifi cation of INC Manila is to conserve Director, proudly accepted the in step with the global strategy of the INC the important ISO 14001:2004 Certifi cate Cyprus towards the environment,” pointed environmental from GL Country Manager Mr. Shane Rozario, Training Manager of Interorient Marine Ser- out Mr. Ramirez. resource. Dr. Holger Manzke and vices, delivering his message as the event’s special guest. Shane Rozario, in his message as Before Station Manager Jessie B. special guest during the event, commended officially Sufi ciencia. system with the guidance of our President the management and staff of INC Manila handing the Also on hand as special guest during Rey Ramirez,” Capt. Rondina narrated. for doing a splendid job in instituting an ISO 14001:2004 the simple but otherwise very signifi cant “Paper certifi cate is one thing, but living ISO-compliant environmental management Certifi cate to the awarding program is Mr. Shane Rozario, out this standard is another thing. We would system. “It takes the cooperation of INC offi cials, Dr. Training Manager of Interorient Maritime like you all to observe and live out this everybody and the utmost personal desire Helger Manzke also gave words of congratulations Services from the head offi ce in Cyprus, standard and eventually raise awareness to preserve the environment to make this to INC Navigation Company Philippines. He who was more than happy to be a not only in ourselves but also in our family crucial group effort succeed and I’d like further encouraged the management, staff, SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 29 INC is First Local Manning Firm to Obbtaintain IISOSO EEnvironmentalnvironmental CertificationCertification

of efforts to conserve energy and resources as well as preserve and protect the environment,” Dr. Manzke explained. Capt. Delos Angeles wrapped up the formal portion of the short awarding program by delivering the closing remarks. “This milestone environmental certifi cation would not have been possible if not for the whole-hearted cooperation of each and every staff of INC Manila as well as our Filipino seafarers who have thrown their all-out support to the management team for this special endeavour,” Capt. Delos Angeles posed. udly displaying the company’s ISO 14001:2004 Certifi cate offi cially awarded by Ger- He cited that the : Capt. Michael Sarthou Jr., Cebu Branch Manager of INC, Mr. Shane Rozario, Training ISO 14001:2004 Financial Director, Dr. Holger Manzke, Country Manager of GL, Mr. Jessie Sufi ciencia, Certifi cation is s Rondina Jr., INC Manila Operations Manager. also meant for the protection of the and its Filipino seafarers to continue with their INC Filipino seafarers and that they should during the National Maritime Week in the and a good number of its off-duty Filipino conservation initiatives to preserve and protect carry the principles with them every time third week of September 2010 and we hope offi cers. the environment for the future generation. they go onboard and work for the vessels that everybody would be present for that Typical of every INC Navigation He also of INC. important project for the environment.” Company Philippines event, Filipino lauded the “I also would INC Manila for like to commend being the fi rst every member local manning of the INC company to be Manila team who certifi ed to ISO made sure that standards on every detail of environmental the corporate management initiative towards system. “It only environmental means that preservation the company and energy thinks ahead conservation are and is not just fully taken care concern with the of all the way business side of to ensuring the Mr. Rey Ramirez elaborating on how INC Manila environmen- Dr. Holger Manzke, Country Manager of GL, commending the its operations success of this tal management system was developed. efforts of INC for the environment and the future generations. all the time campaign and but also takes this event,” remarks the INC Manila CEO. A special entertainment number, seafarers are again at the centerpiece responsibility for Related to the company’s continuing featuring an acoustic number by two lady because the management believes that the environment. efforts for the environment, Capt. Delos staff and Capt. Jimenez of INC Manila each of its initiatives are geared towards I am quite sure Angeles also enjoined everybody to spiced up the short program that also drew serving its Filipino seafarers better to that the pacesetting environmental initiative of participate in the next project of INC Manila. appreciation and applause from the crowd ensure their professional development, INC Manila shall have a positive impact in the “We will be participating in the Coastal composed mostly of the members of the well-being and that of their respective local maritime industry to be more conscious Cleanup Activity of Manila Bay slated INC Manila management team, the staff, families. 30 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 31 AAETET PPreparesrepares JJuniorunior OOfffi ccersers ttoo BBecomeecome EExcellentxcellent LLeaderseaders ET’s commitment to employ, train Having passed and retain only the best people the oral exam at Acame to fore once again during the ALAM (maritime company’s two-day Junior Offi cers’ Seminar university in held at the Heritage Hotel Manila on August Malaysia) in April 12-13, 2010. 2010 en route to Aptly titled: “Engaging Future Leaders assuming the 4th towards Safety and Operational offi cer position Excellence” and attended by over 50 off- (assistant 3rd offi cer duty Filipino junior offi cers, the seminar in other companies), showcased the continuing efforts of AET to 4/O Perito inculcate to its young offi cers the company’s wholeheartedly core values of excellence, responsibility, expressed his innovation and partnership. dedication and As a dynamic global company which has loyalty to work for a corporate goal of becoming the world’s AET for the long- leading petroleum tanker operator, AET term. fi rmly believes that its present crop of junior “AET has already offi cers shall become the future leaders of charted a good the company. career path for us The two-day seminar manifested from being cadets all the company’s commitment to equip its the way to becoming young offi cers with the right mindset to be Captains and Chief ever conscious of safety and operational Engineers and they excellence as those would be their crucial always make it a springboards in eventually taking on point to continuously leadership roles with the company in the develop our not-so-distant future. capabilities every The AET Filipino junior offi cers who took part in the Junior Offi cers’ Seminar fl anking the AET Group HR Sea Training and As a leading worldwide petroleum shipping step of the way,” 4/O Group HR Sea staff who facilitated the three-day conference. company that enjoys a global reputation for Perito stated. delivering the highest standards of service, Third Engineer Henry S. safety and responsibility, AET has in its Sadcopen Jr., who has been employ more than 3,000 highly-skilled and serving the company as engineer dedicated people, working in a cross-cultural offi cer for fi ve years, says that environment, in operating a young and the AET seminar gave him a technically advanced fl eet of 77 tankers. sense of security knowing that AET’s business is managed from regional he is working for a very stable centers in London, Houston, Kuala Lumpur organization which has already and Singapore to move crude oil and refi ned mapped out a viable career products for the world’s oil companies and development plan for him and trading houses. It is also a leading provider his fellow junior offi cers. of US Gulf lightering services. Taken in by the company In the Philippines, the bulk of AET’s AET Filipino junior offi cers setting realistic goals for improvement during the commitment session before the as a cadet from Northern three-day seminar draws to a close. crewing requirement is being provided by Philippine College for Maritime Eagle Star Crew Management Corporation. achieving higher standards in vetting, beginning from the time he was taken in as and Technological Studies, 3/E Sadcopen A premier marine recruitment and crew engineering competencies to higher levels, a fully-sponsored cadet from the Iloilo State says that the seminar also further lifted management agency, Eagle Star was and driving performances the ‘SMART’ way. College of Fisheries. their morale as they become aware of established with the joining of forces of three A workshop on embracing change was Citing that the two-day seminar has been the confi dence and trust that AET is maritime industry major players: recruitment also held during the second day focusing on very enlightening and engaging for him, 2/O giving them as the next breed of company specialist Parola Maritime Agency Corp., ‘Positive Mindset Capaducio was leaders. global energy logistics provider MISC and Behaviour also very elated “The seminar encouraged and motivated Berhad, and leading worldwide petroleum Change of AET’s to know about the us to excel in our work onboard,” says 25- shipping company AET Shipmanagement. Future Leaders.’ clear vision that year-old 2/O Christopher M. Leonora. With high expectations on operations Capping off AET has for its Having been with AET for fi ve years and excellence and dependability prompted by the productive junior offi cers. a total of fi ve shipboard contracts to boot, the needs of major stakeholders, Eagle Star conference is He has his 2/O Leonora is proud to have become is stepping up to the critical role of getting the commitment sights on becoming part of the AET family. “They really know the fi nest professionals to man the ships of session of the AET Filipino a Master in the next couple how to take good care of their people not MISC and AET. junior offi cers as they of years and he wants to just in terms of competitive compensation The company assures innovative set realistic goals for work for good with AET package but also clear career development solutions and a progressive work improvement which was because the company has plans,” he stressed. environment through a proactive approach matched by the commitment already charted a very good 2/O Leonora is expected to join his sixth to recruitment and management. and support of the AET shore staff. career path for him and the other promising vessel with AET soon initially as 3rd Offi cer The two-day seminar was facilitated by junior offi cers. yet again but would eventually assume the Group Hrsea Training. Among the topics AET’s Future Leaders 4/O Ray-Ann Perito, who has been taken in role of 2nd Offi cer after two to three months and issues tackled during the two-day “AET is a company who wants its by AET as a cadet back in 2003, says that the onboard. “AET always has our career paths conference were the company quality policy, seafarers to have that offi cers’ mindset all conference perfectly made clear the policies in mind so it is really nice knowing that our management of career ladder, expectations the time,” says 2/O Harold Capaducio, who of the company with regards to operational company gives us premium importance,” he and challenges on quality seafarers, has been with the company for seven years excellence and safety awareness. pointed out. 32 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

You can’t put a good maritime training center down.” That’s the long and short “of it as Far East Maritime Foundation, Inc. (FEMFI) is now offi cially back as the FFEMFIEMFI, Back as Center maritime training center of choice of many Filipino seafarers and the local maritime industry in general. Since its establishment in 1992, FEMFI has nurtured an almost unrivalled zest in for Training Excellence pursuing training excellence with the end in view of making a lasting contribution to bar none not only in terms of number of An ordinary and run-off-the-mill maritime entire maritime industry as just that – a the local seafaring industry in producing seafarer-trainees but more importantly training center would surely have folded up rumor. world-class Filipino seafarers that can hold in the aspect of quality and reputable with what FEMFI has been through since FEMFI was inching its way to form and their heads high anywhere in the world maritime training. the controversial order from the Palace. But Filipino seafarers know and appreciate when it comes to shipboard competence Being at the top of the heap also has its the training center kept on going, deciding a good maritime training center when and skills know-how. downsides as maritime training has always instead to re-apply for accreditation they see one. Seafarer-trainees have FEMFI was in fact the fi rst training been a competitive business because every with MTC for its course offerings while since started fl ocking back to the training center to expand to the South by stakeholder is just about ready to make a go maintaining its in-house training courses center. establishing its branch in Cebu and some for it the moment an opportunity presents for select industry clientele. In June 2010, the MTC under the helm three years after, a second branch was itself. Because of its remarkable track record With FEMFI momentarily out of the of a new acting executive director fi nally opened in San Fabian, Pangasinan. in training excellence, FEMFI had a fi rm grip picture, the second-liners had a fi eld day, re-accredited the Basic Safety Course From being the fi rst local maritime on the highly-coveted No. 1 spot and there literally making hay while the sun shone. offering of FEMFI, and the training center training center to offer the training program was hardly a break for the second-liners to Even then, competitors were still wary of is now offi cially back in terms of course in Ship Restricted Operator Course dislodge it from its lofty status. FEMFI’s eventual resurgence. While false offerings from its pre-controversy state. (SSROC) and the INMARSAT/GMDSS Having tried the ‘fair business claims in the media continue to circulate While FEMFI has already earned back the 60% of the maritime training business it once had prior to the controversy, the management which has remained humble amid trials and tribulations, is optimistic that the resurgence would continue especially now that the training center is offi cially back on track. “FEMFI has been through good times and bad times but our commitment to continuously train and develop world-class Filipino seafarers remains to this day and the years to come,” says Capt. Constancio Salasab, President of FEMFI, hardly indicating any tinge of regret or bitterness for the tough ordeal that the training center had to go through for over a year. “What is important is that we are back in the maritime training arena and the increasing number of our seafarer-trainees is just an indication that we are truly welcome or that we have Far East Maritime strongly maintains its vision of becoming globally recognized for its been missed for quite some excellence in maritime training and education and is always ready to respond to the time,” Capt. Salasab added. courses, FEMFI gradually expanded its competition’ route dynamic and increasing needs of global Filipino seafarers. The momentary setback course offerings as the years go by to and falling short has only emboldened FEMFI cater to the increasing training needs of several times over, it was time for ‘cutthroat that FEMFI was offi cially closed, the to strive harder to become better than ever. Filipino seafarers. and underhanded maneuvers’ to enter the training center was never inoperational In addition to its present course offerings As a proof of its no-nonsense commitment picture and do the work. As an organization despite the setback brought about by the numbering over 70, the training center to training excellence, FEMFI acquired established on sound and fair business Malacañang order. It had to scale down its is now setting its sights on continuously its ISO 9002 certifi cation from BVQI in principles, FEMFI was not prepared for the operation alright but it was continuously in working together with other entities in February 1999 and was re-certifi ed to ISO new kind of competition. operation. the maritime industry to develop other 9001:2000 standards in December 2003. Just like a fl ashfl ood that seeps Patience is a virtue as experts would courses necessary to maintain the Filipino In July 2006, FEMFI inaugurated a through walls even from a very small say, and for the most part of 2009, seafarers’ edge over other nationalities. well-equipped off-site training complex in opening, the surging tide of legal and FEMFI exuded that virtue to perfection, FEMFI continues to strongly maintain Barangay Labac, Naic, Cavite reaffi rming sneaky maneuverings did FEMFI in, in a methodically working to have its course its vision of becoming globally recognized the training center’s commitment to controversy involving a mere operational offerings re-accredited by MTC one after for its excellence in maritime training and providing Filipino seafarers a venue for technicality, that reached its penultimate the other. education and as such, it is always ready a more realistic scenario in honing their phase late in 2008 when no less than By November 2009, FEMFI already to respond to the dynamic and increasing skills in safety and survival at sea. Malacañang issued a cease-and-desist had its course offerings re-accredited by needs of Filipino seafarers to maintain When FEMFI marked its 15th year in the order on the training center from offering MTC with the exception of the Basic Safety their world-class status. industry in 2007, it was offi cially the No. courses accredited by the Maritime Training Course. By then, the rumor of it being After all, world-class Filipino seafarers 1 maritime training center in the country Council (MTC). closed was already discovered by the deserve no less than world-class training. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 33 34 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 Implementing Guidelines for CF Sharp Gets DNV Certifi cation MILA Council Nears Finalization The parties to the MOA also agreed under Maritime Labour FROM PAGE 19 to constitute MILA as a tripartite body Supreme Court, signed the Memorandum consisting of the Executive Director of the Convention 2006 of Agreement (MOA) with representatives National Conciliation and Mediation Board of manning agencies’ associations and as Ex-offi cio Chair and one member each F Sharp Crew Management Inc is based on the European Union’s planned seamen’s unions providing for the creation from the manning and seafarer sectors. The proud to announce that it is the fi rst ratifi cation before the end of this year. of the MILA. council members will have a term of three Cmanning agency in the Philippines Some of the areas that will affect CF Associate Justice Brion was also on years from the date of their designation. to have achieve Det Norske Veritas (DNV) Sharp Crew Managment as a Manning hand to sign the MOA as witness during a NCMB will serve as the council’s secretariat certifi cation for Private Recruitment and Agent and are subject to inspection for simple ceremony on March 20, 2008 at the in the interim. Placement Services in accordance to the compliance during a vessel’s Port State Associated Marine Offi cers and Seamen’s Aside from promoting voluntary Maritime Labour Convention 2006. Control (PSC) are: Union (AMOSUP) conference room in arbitration in the maritime industry, the The certifi cation has been achieved by 1. Minimum age Intramuros, Manila. council and the secretariat shall also be the company after completing preliminary 2. Medical certifi cation The signatories from the manning tasked to formulate policies, programs, assessment and extensive certifi cation 3. Qualifi cations of seafarers agencies were Capt. Rodolfo Estampador standards, qualifi cations, and manuals of audit by DNV. 4. Seafarers’ employment agree- of the Conference of Maritime Manning procedures pertaining to MILA operations. The Maritime Labour Convention is a ments Association, Engr. Sammuel Lim of They will also screen, accredit, admit, and new and comprehensive labor standard 5. Use of any licensed or certifi ed the Filipino Association for Mariners train voluntary arbitrators. for the world’s shipping sector. or regulated private recruitment and Employment, Jose Albar The new Convention was adopted placement service Kato of the International during the 10th Maritime Session of the 6. Payment of wages Maritime Association of International Labor Organization (ILO) in Also referred to as the Consolidated the Philippines, Eduardo 2006 with a record vote of 314 countries Maritime Labour Convention, the MLC Manese of the Philippine- in favor and none against. 2006 contains a comprehensive set Japan Manning A Maritime Labour Certifi cate (MLC) of global standards, based on those Consultative Council, and a Declaration of Maritime Labour that are already contained in the 68 Vicente Miranda of the Compliance (DMLC) will be required to maritime labour conventions and Philippine Association of ensure compliance with the Convention recommendations adopted by the ILO Manning Agencies and for all ships above 500 tons plying the since 1920. Ship Managers, Inc., Roy international trade. The MLC Certifi cation for CF Sharp Alampay of the Filipino The MLC 2006 will enter into force one Crew Management is historical yet again Ship Owners Association, year after 30 countries with a minimum of for the company as it was also the fi rst and Felicito Dalaguete of 33% of the world tonnage have ratifi ed it. manning agent in the Philippines to be the Philippine Association It is expected that the MLC 2006 certifi ed by DNV for ISO 9000 Certifi cate Engr. Ramirez raising a point during the deliberation of the TWG on will enter into force by December 2011 in 1994. of Maritime Institution. the Implementing Guidelines for the MILA Council. Those from the seamen’s unions were Capt. Gregorio Oca of the Associated Marine Offi cers Seamen’s Union of the Philippines, Capt. Romeo Occena of the International Seamen’s Mutual Labor Association, Atty. Manuel Collado of the Mariners and Allied Transport Employees Union, German Pascua, Jr., of the Philippine Seamen’s Union, and Engr. Nelson Ramirez of the United Filipino Seafarers. Engr. Leoncio Sempio of the Marine Engine Offi cers Association of the Philippines and Capt. Jaime Aquino of the Philippine Maritime Voluntary Arbitrators Association also signed the MOA. The establishment of MILA, which is an initiative of Justice Brion during his tenure as Labor Secretary, seeks to provide for the development of a voluntary arbitration system in the maritime industry while ensuring the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers and addressing the concerns of stakeholders in the maritime industry. The establishment of the MILA Council came on the heels of a growing consensus among maritime industry stakeholders on the need to pursue a dedicated effort to advocate the use of voluntary arbitration as a mode of settling labor disputes in the maritime sector. The stakeholders also took cognizance of the need to develop expertise in maritime usages and practices in the voluntary arbitration system “so as to fully give effect to arbitration clauses provided in the collective bargaining agreements entered into by various seafarer’s unions and standard contracts of Filipino seafarers.” SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 35

ince President Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino now have wide and expansive piles of gar- offi cially assumed the Offi ce of the Pres- bage in which to conduct their usual business Sident on June 30, 2010, the country’s roundabout. In short, not much has changed. major dailies have been literally peppered al- The garbage people of yore are still the same most on a daily basis with full-page advertise- garbage people of today in the area. ments criticizing and defending the Smokey THE BARE TRUTH The Manila Harbour Centre on actual Mountain Development Project which began ground is likewise a lie if one will compare it during the term of former President Fidel V. The Smokey Mountain Development with what can be seen vis-à-vis with what R-II Ramos from 1992 to 1998. Builders or HCPT promised to build when they The Smokey Mountain Development and and Reclamation Project on Paper fi rst ventured into the business. Reclamation Project actually became the The port complex, which was even claimed springboard of then fl edgling real estate de- vis-à-vis What’s Actually on the Ground to rival Australia’s Darling Harbor and the Fish- veloper Reghis Romero II to venture into port erman’s Wharf of San Frqancisco in terms of operations via the 79-hectare Manila Harbour Lo and behold! The truth unfolded right be- was able to ensure that Smokey Mountain was cleanliness or effi ciency, is a sham all by itself. Centre and his own private port company Har- fore Tinig ng Marino’s eyes. no longer a garbage dump. No Filipino port user would even dare show bour Centre Port Terminal, Inc. (HCPTI), which The model, livable community, which was While Smokey Mountain is no longer the to any tourist the Manila Harbour Centre not now leads the joint venture in operating the so richly illustrated and pictured in the news- old, stinky and smoking garbage dump of yore, just for the fear of embarrassment or humilia- country’s largest domestic port – the Manila papers as something that can actually rival part of Manila’s garbage is still being dumped tion but moreso because he might even cause North Harbor. today’s modern social housing villages in lieu in a site just across the old dumpsite near the the tourist to suffer from various illnesses. The Apparently, the Ramos Administration then of the garbage dumpsite that once stood tall is bridge bordering Manila and Navotas and very port is a mess all by itself. It can actually give tapped the services of Romero’s development merely that – an illustration. much across the Manila Harbour Centre port birth to a book aptly titled: “The Art of Mis- and construction company R-II Builders Cor- What’s on the ground are uncompleted de- complex. Those garbage people who used to managing a Port 101.” poration to carry out the development works velopment or housing projects that probably thrive in the Smokey Mountain no longer have But enough of the wordly descriptions. promised in the Smokey Mountain Develop- came to an abrupt halt when the developer a tall and mountainous garbage heap but they These pictures can do the talking better. ment and Reclamation Project, centering on converting the former garbage dumpsite into a model, livable community and a prime busi- ness center to boot. Given the magnitude of the project, the Ra- mos Administration generated funds for the Smokey Mountain Development and Recla- mation Project by inconspicuously dipping its hands into the coffers of the National Hous- Should the government pay PhP4.6 Billion ing Authority, the Social Security System, and R-II Builder’s Claim .... for these unfi nished buildings? even the Overseas Workers Welfare Admin- istration, among other agencies. It even had the money guaranteed by Home Guaranty Corporation (HGC), contrary to President Ra- mos’ pronouncement then that the government would not spend a single centavo for the ambi- tious project. In fact, this was precisely the core of the privilege speech of Senator Miriam Defensor- Santiago delivered on August 16, 2004 where she furiously claimed that the project was a sham: “This is not just corruption spelled out in neon lights; this is sheer cold-blooded wick- edness,” claimed Senator Santiago which re- verberated from the august halls of the Senate and into the mindset of the local port and ship- ping community to this date. The smoke is gone but the mountain and the informal settlers are still there. ... vis-a-vis the Reality. The bone of contention of the newspaper advertisements of late asking P-Noy to step into the row is how on earth was R-II Builders able to assume ownership of the 79-hectare Manila Harbour Complex, now valued at al- most PhP 4.5 Billion with an investment of only PhP 211 Million when it was commissioned by the Ramos Administration then for the Smokey Is this the thriving business in the area that Mountain Development and Reclamation Proj- can rival Makati or Greenhills? ect in the fi rst place. On the other hand, Romero is always quick to defend also in the newspapers how his company was able to turn the former garbage dumpsite into a model, livable community and a bustling harbor complex which he claims is capable of equaling if not surpassing world- class international ports. R-II Builder’s Vision .... Newspaper readers or even those who based their information on the web can only surmise the ring of business competition in the tussle. But for the port users and those who can see for themselves the reality on the ground, the issue is no longer about who’s more capable of putting up newspaper adver- Can you call this a world-class port comparable to Port Darling of Australia or Fisherman’s Wharf of San Franciso? Dusty during dry season and muddy tisements that catch the attention of the public during rainy season, HCPT is a port that combines dry bulk cargoes like coal, gypsum, clinker and silica with breakbulk shipments like steel coils, steel bars, better, or who has the deeper pocket to sustain steel plates, logs, vehicles, among others, in practically one area, some of whose portion gets submerged in water during downpours. the public brickbats. The question boils down to who’s really telling the truth. As clearly stated in John 8:32 “The truth shall make you free,” and so Tinig ng Marino goes direct to the bottom of the is- sue – the Smokey Mountain Development and Reclamation Project – how it is projected in the newspapers and how it really appears on the ... vis-a-vis the Reality. ground. 36 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

were not designed for the country’s waters. reviewing the guidelines for the construction SONAME to Name Design Contest The contest, thus, encourages construction and operation of smaller vessels like the of locally-built vessels based on best-in- motorized bancas considering that these th class designs. types of vessels prominently fi gure in Winners on 64 Anniversary Engineer Lim also said that SONAME more than 60% of maritime mishaps in the FROM PAGE 24 imported from other countries. Local is ready to work closely with MARINA in country. shipowners resort and P75,000 for the second price await the to importation winners. rather than fund a The contest is part of SONAME’s newbuilding because efforts to help the government improve it is cheaper to bring in maritime safety as well as contribute to a secondhand vessel the environmental protection efforts being from other countries carried out all over the country. Through than spending for a the competition, SONAME aims to fi nd the locally-built vessel. best designs of boats and ships that are SONAME President suited for domestic shipping – a way for Engr. Sammuel Lim the organization to contribute in improving said that most of the maritime safety. Philippine disasters at Today, many of the vessels used sea were caused by domestically are secondhand vessels imported vessels that

Engr. Lim says that most maritime disasters were caused by imported ves- sels that were not designed for the country’s waters. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 37 PPoshosh RReiterateseiterates CommitmentCommitment toto FilipinoFilipino CrewCrew osh Fleet Services Pte. Ltd. of Posh the opportunity to participate because Singapore has once again signifi ed it renewed my motivation to work harder Pits full trust and confi dence on its and be successful in work and in life.” Filipino crew manning its vessels even as Having been with Posh for three years, it laid down plans in getting the services of 2/O Pantaleon however started his career more Filipino seafarers to man its increasing through SSM and he has since stayed roster of managed vessels in the coming employed through the company. years. Upon seeing the almost complete During its recent Seastaff Seminar roster of Posh management team during for its off-duty Filipino offi cers and crew the seminar, he initially felt as though they held at Traders Hotel on July 7 – 9, 2010, are all being watched. But as the seminar Mr. Lim Tau Kok, Director of Posh Fleet progresses, 2/O Pantaleon began to feel Services Pte. Ltd. personally assured the at ease, realizing that the reason why participants of continued support from the Posh management team was there is the constantly growing Singapore-based because they want to show their seastaff shipmanagement company. that they are one with them in every aspect “The growth prospects for the company of their work. are very promising especially now that The three-day seastaff seminar global shipping is on its way to full recovery. culminated with a gala night on July 9th with With this renewed enthusiasm in shipping, all the participants being joined by the staff Posh is gearing itself to capitalize on the of SSM and the Posh management team business windfall that the development from Singapore that included Mr. Lim Tau is expected to generate in the coming Posh offi cials and some of its Filipino seafarers in a light moment during the Seastaff Seminar. Kok, Mr. Lee Keng Lin, Mr. Sim Hee Ping, months,” Mr. Lim pointed out. Mr Chan Joo Huat, Mr. Daniel Boon Suan “We want our seafarers to be consistently whose last vessel prior to participating in very good. It means that any seastaff can Fatt, Mr. Trond Runar Solevaag, Mr. Gilbert competitive and be prepared for this growth the seminar is MV Posh Value, fi nds the approach the management to open up issues Michael Rodrigues and Mr. Christopher scenario so we at Posh always strive to conference very informative and enlightening or problems related to their work without fear Anthoy John Richards. ensure that every seastaff working onboard especially in the aspect of team building and of being reprimanded.” In his welcome remarks during the dinner our fl eet of managed vessels maintains leadership. “I plan to work for good with Posh through party, Mr. Lim expressed his appreciation high levels of competence in every aspect “This is a different kind of conference SSM. They have very viable programs and for the warm reception that they have been of their shipboard jobs. Competence of and I really salute Posh for coming up with career development plans for every staff accorded to during the entire duration of seastaff equates to safe vessel operation this unique approach to training its offi cers and the management knows how to treat the three-day seminar and likewise thanked and continued productivity and profi tability and crew. This is quite effective indeed in their people right,” remarks Capt. Asotigue. each seastaff for their active involvement in for the shipmanagement company,” he inculcating among the seastaff the right Asked for his personal rating of the the seminar. explained. values necessary for their shipboard work,” seminar from a scale of one to 10 with 10 Chief Engineer Antonino Gascon, The Posh Seastaff Seminar has evolved cited Capt. Asotigue, who has been working being the highest, Capt. Asotigue said: “If President and General Manager of SSM to become a regular capacity building for Posh for fi ve years. there is a rating higher than 10, I would give Maritime Services, expressed his heartfelt activity of the shipmanagement company for “Some of the learnings we acquired in that as a grade to this seminar.” appreciation to Posh for their continued its Filipino crew, in close coordination with this seminar, we can actually apply in our Chief Engineer Jerry Idolog was also all commitment and support to their Filipino SSM Maritime Services, Inc., its exclusive manning agent in the Philippines. Posh exudes an atypical way of conducting its seastaff seminar. Unlike the usual conference-type set-up that most other crew management and manning companies conduct for its seafarers, Posh uses a unique medium to draw interest, enthusiasm and involvement of every seminar participant. Instead of having a conference ambience during the seminar, Posh actually turned the venue into a sports gymnasium with a boxing ring at the center Through boxing and other related physical activities, the Posh Filipino seafarers appreciated the of the room. value of preparedness and team work among others. Mr. Lim Tau Kok is even shown in the lower right photo egging the participants to give it their best in the tug-of-war exercise. Instead of the tedious and often sit- and-listen mode of participation, Posh home or every day life, particularly with praises for the seminar. “The conference makes sure that every participant will use regards to managing stress and dealing enabled us to feel how much the their thinking caps during the seminar with different people. It is always good if management cares for its crew. It is very and literally fl ex their muscles during the someone is guiding you in these things, reassuring.” physical exercises portion of the seminar to which certainly contribute in making you a “I believe that Posh has already highlight crucial issues to the participants, better professional and person,” he added. achieved the enterprise of excellence and particularly with regards to team effort and “I like the correlation of boxing with work it is very evident in this seastaff seminar,” team building. and life. Because when you go into boxing, it adds the 52-year-old Chief Engineer. What’s more, practically the entire means that you should be prepared to make He also likes how the company used management team of Posh Fleet Services the right moves and decisions at the right boxing as a medium of analogy for the work Pte. Ltd. is on hand to actively participate time. If you translate and apply the same and life of its seafarers. “Just like in boxing, crew. “I have been telling our seafarers that and just be like brothers to each and every ethic in your work and in your personal life, it one has to be mentally and physically fi t to they should be thankful to Posh instead of seminar participant. would surely make wonders for your growth,” face and overcome the challenges of life SSM because it is Posh who gives them he commented. and in work.” the employment and SSM is just serving as Committed Participants Capt. Asotigue is also very elated seeing 2/O Jay Louie Pantaleon also fi nds the a medium.” Seafarer-participants were only just the entire management team of Posh seminar very interesting. “The training is very He also lauded Posh for its initiative for too game to actively involve themselves directly participating in the conference. “It useful for our everyday life, in our family and its Filipino seafarers.“The crew will look up in the seminar given the unique and very is a positive sign for the company because in our work as seafarers because it teaches to the company because of the opportunities interesting make up as well as set-up of the the management reaches out to its crew. us how to properly handle pressure. This is that you are providing them as well as the three-day capacity building activity. They take down the wall that divides the my fi rst time to attend this kind of seminar personal treatment you are according to Capt. Diosdado ‘Danny’ Asotigue, management from its seastaff which is and I feel honored for having been given by each one of them,” cites C/E Gascon. 38 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 MMAP CORNER CAPT. RODOLFO A. ASPILLAGA, M.M. President, Masters and Mates Association of the Philippines (MMAP) Is There Hope for the Domestic Shipping Industry? tures that lend greater safety to the vessel. only aggravates emergency situations. would be impossible for them to attain the uring the olden days, the primary Nonetheless, prospective economic gains I am not trying to paint a grim picture of desired level of competence. consideration in building a ship was attracted principals to buy and use these our domestic shipping industry. These are I would therefore insist that all shipboard Dthe safety of the craft. The archi- ships for commerce. facts and we all know that. I only wish that personnel be duly certifi ed according to tects designed ships that could stay afl oat Commercial pressure has contributed this article would serve as an eye opener their ranks and duties. They, without ex- in relative comfort and withstand the forces somewhat signifi cantly to sea mishaps, for concerned government agencies — the emption, must be able to demonstrate com- of nature for as long as their available ma- particularly in interisland shipping. It has MARINA, the Philippine Coast Guard, the petence in the tasks they are supposed to terials would endure. become customary among local shipping DOTC, the Congress, and so on — to strict- perform onboard. From Noah’s Ark, seagoing vessels operators to overload their vessels with ly implement laws pertaining to the use of Of greater importance is that these ship- have evolved into the ships as we know passengers and cargo. our domestic waters and regulating trans- board personnel must at least satisfy all them today. This not only saves operating and over- portation of people and cargo. the minimum requirements of the STCW In terms of size, earlier ships such as head expenses; it also earns for the owner Likewise, may this article wake up stake- ’78 Convention and its succeeding amend- those commanded by Columbus, Magel- bigger revenues in a shorter time. And holders to the gravity of these issues. ments to make them adept, capable, and lan and Vasco de Gama were dwarfs com- to further save time, effort and other re- As a sea captain myself, I know that the competent seafarers who can be competi- pared to the ill-fated MV Princess of the sources, the crews are allowed (perhaps, level of competence of personnel deployed tive anywhere in the world they may choose Stars that used to ply between our islands, instructed) to forego routine security mea- on a ship — domestic or international, from to be deployed. and the “Princess” could be considered a sures, such as tightly lashing of cargoes, cadet to master — is es- midget among modern-day titanic freight- particularly when the trip is short and no sential. ers and carriers. bad weather is expected. It must be borne in History tells us that the conquistadores Quite sadly, too, most of our interis- mind that they are ac- sailed the oceans for months on end on land vessels do not carry adequate safety countable for our valuable “minuscule” ships propelled with human equipment such as life jackets, lifeboats goods and cargoes. force, weathering treacherous seas and and other accessories. So, when calamity On top of that, they are winds, using no more than primitive instru- strikes, these vessels —passengers and necessarily responsible ments for navigation and maneuvering. cargo included — often suffer catastrophic for the comfort and safety Yet they survived and reached their des- effects. of passengers that patron- tinations. Some were shipwrecked or per- The legendary master mariner, Captain ize their companies. An- ished at sea, but many of them succeeded James Morrison, said, “competent crews, other area of competence in returning to their sovereigns halfway safer ships.” We can never overemphasize that should be looked into around the world. the truth of this dictum. is their consciousness in Today’s seagoing vessels — from yachts However, some ship operators are more protecting the marine en- to giant liners — are built with the best ma- concerned with their earnings than with vironment. Without proper terials that science and technology could anything else. They, therefore, choose to education and training, it Most interisland vessels do not have adequate safety equipment. provide, equipped with such sophisticated employ crews who equipment as GPS, ECDIS, ARPA, RA- are willing to accept DAR, and so on. low wages, with to- Yet, some of them still get lost at sea tal disregard of their with nary a trace; many of them often suc- level of competence cumbing to the wrath of Mother Nature, ei- (or incompetence). ther capsizing or sinking. Sadly, there are For many of these still those that meet accidents for yet “un- operators, minimal explained” reasons. experience, physical Recent investigations have shown that strength, and ap- certain ships are prone to capsize or sink parent health would because of their architectural design. As constitute ample eli- earlier mentioned older ships were built gibility for the crew. with safety foremost in mind; their features Many of these crew- were thus regarded as “conventional.” members are semi- In time trade and commerce grew im- literate and never had measurably, and with it, the volume of pas- any formal training in sengers and goods to transport. As sea seamanship. Do they transportation is deemed the cheapest, know the rules of the competition among shipping companies road? stiffened. Principals scurried to address Are they aware of this economic demand. their legal and moral Naval architects came up with designs to responsibilities as accommodate more cargo or more passen- employees of a pas- gers or both: fl at bottoms, greater lengths senger/cargo car- and widths, taller superstructures, etc. The rier? How can we ex- ship with “unconventional” shape was born pect them to properly with these changes. cope with emergen- Unfortunately, these gains in capacity cies when the need (tonnage) necessitated sacrifi cing some arises? desirable qualities of the ship, such as As a matter of fact, stability, maneuverability, and other fea- an incompetent crew SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 39 40 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

FROM PAGE 3 demise of the sector, it becomes imminent that the industry needs a law all its own. Stakeholders of the local maritime industry tried in vain to catch the last A LAW ALL ITS OWN minute train prior to the enactment into law of the critical amendments to RA 8042 UFS Revives Lobby sometime late last year, claiming that they were not consulted at all in the drafting of for Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers the amendments. Engr. Nelson Ramirez, President of Rep. Aglipay even consulted Welfare Administration (OWWA) should the UFS, even personally sought the Engr. Ramirez and the UFS late come up with a separate fund for Filipino assistance of former Senator Richard J. in August 2010 for possible inputs seafarers from the fund for land-based Gordon to practically ‘hijack’ the passage for the drafting of the version of overseas workers. of RA 10022 through legislative means the bill to be fi led in the Lower Confi dent that the counterpart bill in the sometime in December 2009, when the House. Lower House on the Magna Carta of Filipino law was already being deliberated on by The UFS just made two Seafarers would be fi led soon, the UFS is the bicameral conference committee. suggestions. First, Filipino now working to inform the stakeholders in Senator Gordon did manage to hold seafarers should not be obligated the local maritime industry to throw their the surging tide momentarily but when he to become a member of any all-out support to the legislative solution threw his hat into the presidential race, organization prior to being given already in the works. After all, the measure that’s when RA 10022 literally lapsed into their professional license. And is for the greater good of the industry and Filipino seafarers and the local maritime industry are almost second, the Overseas Workers the Filipino seafarers. law sometime in March 2010. being treated as third-class citizens under RA 10022. Although already a law, the stakeholders in the local maritime industry still saw a ray of hope when it was consulted by the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA), the government agency tasked to implement the provisions of RA 10022, in the drafting of the law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). Despite the ensuing series of industry consultations, the IRR of RA 10022 still came out the way its proponents from the land-based sector envisioned or planned it to be. In a rather unfortunate twist of fate, if Filipino seafarers and the local maritime industry played second fi ddle to the land- based manpower deployment sector under RA 8042, RA 10022 practically turned them into third-class citizens.

Hope Springs Eternal Instead of crying over spilled milk or fretting over something which the industry already no longer has control of, the UFS thought of a solution. Hope springs eternal, the union believes. The immediate solution that came to mind was the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers given the legal fact that only a law can repeal the provision of an existing law. Considering that the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers has already been fi led in the Senate, it was just imperative that a counterpart bill must be fi led in the Lower House and work on intensifying the lobbying from there. Fortunately for the UFS, it has made an investment of support during the last partylist election to DIWA Party List or Democratic Independent Workers Association so it was rather trouble-free seeking the assistance of Rep. Emilene Aglipay to sponsor the counterpart bill on the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. When the legal team of Rep. Aglipay saw and read the Senate Bill on the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, it was easy for them to realize the noble intentions of the bill for the throngs of Filipino seafarers, their families and the local maritime industry in general. That’s when the commitment to sponsor the counterpart bill was formally laid down on the table by Rep. Aglipay. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 41 CCrewingrewing ExcellenceExcellence PPowersowers SSeaea PowerPower ttoo CContinuousontinuous BusinessBusiness GrowthGrowth ynamism, innovativeness stated and excellence, those are the SPSEI now has a Computerized Dingredients that Sea Power Shipping Agency System which has Shipping Enterprises, Inc. (SPSEI) automated all the shipping and personal consistently equipped itself as the data of all its seaborne manpower; a company constantly posted growth year Shipping Accounting System (SAS) that after year. already computerized the company’s On August 25, 2010, just months before accounting processes; and the Crew the company offi cially marked its 23rd Management System which has year in the business, Sea Power’s steady automated Sea Power’s crew line-up growth as a manning organization was processes. highlighted yet again when the company With its move to a new and bigger offi ce, offi cially inaugurated its new offi ces at the Sea Power has gained enough leg room 2nd and 4th fl oor of Sun Plaza Building at for its constantly burgeoning operations. Shaw Boulevard corner Princeton Street, Ms. Guerrero said that the Operations Mandaluyong City. and Administration Departments shall Over the years, Sea Power has become occupy the 2nd fl oor while the 4th fl oor a byword and a preferred employer among shall be for the Accounting and Training a good number of Filipino seafarers in the Departments. local maritime industry. This is very evident Amid the constant and consistent in the fact that the company has been a growth of the company highlighted no recipient of several prestigious awards less by its sterling accomplishments from the Philippine Overseas Employment and achievements in the local maritime Agency (POEA) beginning with three industry, Ms. Guerrero and the consecutive Top Performer Awards given management and staff of Sea Power in 1997, 1998 and 2000, and subsequently remains humble, preferring to maintain two Awards of Excellence; the fi rst one in their low-profi le and low-key yet highly 2005 and the second, given just last April effective and professional approach to 29, 2010. crew management. Sea Power has likewise been given by “We are already very happy knowing the POEA a Special Commendation for that we have made our signifi cant its exemplary welfare program and allied contributions in making the lives of a good services for the interest, well-being and number of Filipino seafarers and their welfare of overseas Filipino workers. families a lot better as well elated over SPSEI also has several elements of the fact that our foreign principals are history in its collection of awards and very much satisfi ed with the competent accomplishments with a couple of ‘fi rsts.’ Filipino crew and effi cient services we are It is the fi rst company to sponsor seminar- providing them,” stressed Ms. Guerrero. workshops held at the POEA auditorium “We are likewise proud knowing on topics that include AIDS Awareness Ms. Guerrero and Capt Eleftherios Polemis, President and Owner’s Representative respectively of that the numerous achievements and Symposium, Family Values and Moral Sea Power Shipping Enterprise cut the ceremonial ribbon to offi cially inaugurate the company’s new accomplishments we have gained over Issues, and Drug and Alcohol Seminar. offi ce at Sun Plaza Building in Mandaluyong City. Subsequently, short and solemn blessing rites the years as we go about our untiring It is also the fi rst local manning agency to ensued offi ciated by Orthodox and Catholic priests. efforts toward crewing excellence, has have sponsored a Medical Dissemination part of 1988 manning 20 vessels, Sea 1996 with the ISO 9002 certifi cation; got also signifi cantly contributed to Philippine Seminar-Workshop on TMJ held at the Power has eventually metamorphosed re-certifi ed on December 8, 2007; and socio-economic growth,” the SPSEI POEA auditorium on November 19, 2004. into a formidable and reputable manning subsequently upgraded to ISO 9001:2008 added. For its commitment to socio-civic company and now providing the crewing standards exactly two undertakings, Sea Power has also been requirements of 224 vessels as of August years thereafter or on 2010. December 8, 2009,” she Ms. Antoniette Isabel pointed out. A. Guerrero, President In addition, the of SPSEI, attributes the company has obtained consistent growth of the an ISO-QAR certifi cation company to the highly also from AJA as early effi cient and experienced as December 16, management team and 1996 for its Zero Non- staff that have been Conformance right on its delivering excellent and very fi rst party audit. very satisfactory crewing “In our unrelenting services to its Filipino quest to stay totally seafarers and foreign committed in achieving principals. the highest standards Capt. Polemis is shown being fl anked by lady staffs of Sea Power “Apart from our in marine personnel during the dinner that immediately followed after the inauguration SPSEI lady staff led by Ms. Guerrero, President; Ms. Joselyn Guiri- personalized approach in recruitment and training rites. tan, Vice President & QMR; Ms. Virginia de Asis, Operations Man- dealing with our Filipino throughout the global ager; and Ms. Grace Eloriaga, Finance Manager. seafarers and shipowner- shipping industry, we have likewise infused The unwavering desire to excel in a consistent Gawad Kalinga Awardee for principals, we also abide by a strict quality signifi cant improvements and innovations crewing has powered Sea Power indeed to two years from 2006 to 2007 given by management system which was certifi ed in our operations by investing on greater and newfound heights in the local Unlad Pilipinas. by the Anglo-Japanese-American (AJA) automated systems to further streamline seafaring industry – a classic example of From its humble beginnings in the early Registrars to ISO standards as early as our operations,” Ms. Guerrero proudly consistency that is truly worth emulating. 42 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 UFS Renews Partnership with Filinvest FROM PAGE 10 Seafarer’s Center slated on the third UFS also agreed to involve Filinvest in week of September 2010, the UFS has various maritime industry activities for the already involved and drawn the support of Engr. Nelson Ramirez of the company to be able to do its marketing and Filinvest, which has committed to put up a UFS and Mr. Jing Concep- promotion initiatives. promotional booth at the venue that would cion of Filinvest sealing the In fact, for its participation to the events surely draw and spark interest among Memorandum of Agreement and activities during the National Maritime the hundreds of Filipino seafarers who between the two organiza- Week to be held mostly at the Luneta regularly mingle in the area. tions with a fi rm handshake. PISOBILITIES KsKCoop FROM PAGE 23 Ang mga sekondaryang layunin ay iyong mga nakasaad sa Co- operative Development Law, at ang mga sumusunod: 1. Masigasig na suportahan ang pamahalaan at iba pang mga kaugnay na organisasyon sa pagtaguyod ng mga kooperatiba upang makamit ang sustenableng kaunlaran; 2. Magtalaga ng masigasig na pagkalap ng savings at pagtiti- pon ng kapital upang mapanatili ang mga development activities at long-term investments; 3. Isakatuparan ang mga batayan na magtitiyak sa transparen- siya, at magsusulong sa interes ng mga miyembro; at 4. Magmamalasakit sa kapakanan ng mga miyembro, kanilang mga pamilya, at komunidad. Ang Investment Strategy at kalagayan ng KskCoop: • Magkaroon ng makabuluhang bilang ng miyembro; 2,000 miy- embro ang inaasam bilang panimula. Mayroon na tayong higit sa 1,200 miyembro ngunit wala pang 2,000. Ngunit tinanggihan ng mga nagpulong na miyembro na ibalik ko ang kanilang pera, kung kaya’t patuloy pa rin ang KskCoop. • Patuloy na pagkakaroon ng mga seminar ukol sa kalayaang pinansiyal. Regular rin kaming pumupunta ni CFE Executive Direc- tor Mr. Armand Bengco sa Hong Kong para sa mga seminars. Ma- dalas din akong tinatawagan nila Mike Benares at Tita Kerry upang makapanayam sa kanilang radio show sa Hong Kong. • Magmay-ari ng mga negosyo na bukod sa magdudulot ng dibi- dendo sa mga miyembro, ay magbibigay din ng mga trabaho basta’t ang kapamilya ng miyembro ay may kwalipikasyon na magtrabaho. Mayroon na tayong isang Chow King sa Cebu! Dahil hindi sapat ang pondo ng KsKCoop, may ilang mga indibidwal na naglagak din ng pera. Ang isang miyembro, si Tata Balbuena, at isang manage- ment team, ay nagsasanay na sa Chow King. Bumisita sa www. kskcoop.com para sa karagdagang impormasyon. • Nakapagmay-ari ng isang bangkong pag-aari ng KskCoop upang tugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga miyembro sa pag- dedeposito, pautang, remittances, at micro-fi nancing. • Ilagak ang pinagsanib na pondo sa mga fi nancial instruments na hindi masasalihan kung nagsarili ang mga miyembro. Bagama’t hindi naging maganda ang mga fi nancial instruments noong nagda- ang 2008 at 2009, alam nating magiging mas maganda ang 2010 at ang mga darating na taon. • Magkaloob ng seed funding sa mga miyembro na may maka- buluhang proyekto. Pinag-aaralan na ang mga panukala ng ilang miyembro. Sali na sa KsKCoop. Hindi kailangang taga-Hong Kong kayo. Magtanong sa [email protected] o kung nasa Maynila o Hong Kong:

Colayco Foundation for Education Inc. Address: Unit 805 8th Flr. Citystate Centre Condominium, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City Telephone Nos. 63-2-637-3731,637-3741 and 631-4446. 63-917-853-7333 www.colaycofoundation.com KSK Information Services Ltd. Room 804, 8th Floor, Wah Ying Cheong Central Building, 158-164 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong Direct: 085234210216, Mobile: 085260135686 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 43

FROM PAGE 4 PCG were actually overtaken by events especially with the change in the country’s Danger Lurks at the Manila North political administration resulting in the change in the management of the PPA as well. Harbor Entrance Channel Former PPA manager Atty. Juan Sta. Ana Jr. eventually took over the position of PPA General Manager from Atty. Oscar entrance channel of the Manila North Sevilla Jr. in the fi rst week of July 2010, Harbor right from the start. Either they ending speculations within the domestic don’t know the problem or they don’t shipping and port community on who care at all, which is rather a familiar would assume and take charge of the port attribute of the Romeros,” Ramirez body under the administration of President pointed out. Noynoy Aquino. Ramirez adds that the Romeros The PCG has resent the correspondence are very typical in neglecting their of the UFS and its follow-up letter to the commitments for the sake of profi t. offi ce of the new GM of the PPA but up until “These were very evident in the now, the port agency has yet to make the Smokey Mountain Development and fi rst move to address and nip in the bud the Reclamation Project during the time lurking danger in the Manila North Harbor of then President Fidel V. Ramos entrance channel. and their subsequent acquisition and The UFS is just wondering why Manila operation of the private port Harbour North Harbour Port, Inc. (MNHPI), the Centre Port Terminal, Inc,” Ramirez new joint venture company for the 25-year cited. Manila North Harbor Development Project “Just check how they stockpile between Harbour Centre Port Terminal, cargoes inside the HCPT and you can Inc. (HCPTI) of Reghis Romero and San see the risks and dangers that those Miguel Corporation of Danding Cojuangco pose on people,” Ramirez pointed and Ramon Ang. out. MNHPI used to be a joint venture The only remaining buoy marker at the entrance channel of Manila North Harbor is shown from afar and “In any case, I still hope that the between HCPTI and Manny Pangilinan’s encircled in the photo. The PCG watercraft with the UFS personnel onboard tried to get as close as possible PPA will address this crucial matter Metro Pacifi c Investment Corporation to the buoy but the strong wind and the huge waves prevented them from doing so. soon or the country will yet again (MPIC) even up to the time when the PPA to an equal sharing arrangement, preferring “If it is really concerned with the safety experience a fl imsy, albeit humiliating, awarded them the PhP 14.5 billion project to maintain a 65%-35% sharing scheme of shipping at the Manila North Harbor, maritime disaster right at the entrance in April 2010 but MPIC eventually backed instead. San Miguel eventually bought the MNHPI should have called the attention of channel of the Manila North Harbor,” the out of the partnership when HCPTI refused 35% share of MPIC in the joint venture. the PPA to the lurking danger right at the UFS president said. 44 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 International Manning Event Returns to Manila he world’s most important manning tional Chamber of Shipping Chairman and younger generation. The Maritime Labour Convention Fo- and training conference returns to International Shipping Federation President The event will also feature a pre-confer- cus Day workshop will be handled by DNV TManila for its 11th year. Spyros Polemis, Wallem Shipmanagement ence workshop, ‘STCW Focus Day: Be- Principal Surveyor and Country Manager Over 250 leading maritime recruitment Ltd Fleet Manager John Wood, Hong Kong yond Manila 2010’ to be held on November (Indonesia) Pawan Sahni. Delegates will and training professionals from over 20 Shipowners Association Managing Direc- 16 and a post-conference workshop entitled be given a copy of the Maritime Labour countries will meet in Manila on November tor Arthur Bowring, Filipino Association for ‘Maritime Labour Convention Focus Day: Convention 2006. Together with workshop 17 and 18, 2010 at the Hotel Sofi tel Philip- Mariner’s Employment President, Ericson Challenges and Solutions to Implementa- facilitators, they will study in-depth the fi ve pine Plaza for the 11th Annual Asia-Pacifi c M. Marquez, and Filipino Shipowners As- tion for Shipowners and Manning Agents’ Convention titles to understand their impli- Manning and Training Conference. sociation Chairman, Carlos Salinas, among to be held on November 19. cations for daily operations. Organized by the UK-based conference others. The STCW Focus Day workshop will be To avail of substantial savings, partici- specialist Informa Maritime Events, the Among the highlights of the event is an conducted by IFSMA president Capt. Chris- pants are advised to book early. Philippine conference will have as its theme: ‘Year of exclusive Filipino crew update in which reg- ter Lindval who will discuss the changes to residents who register early will be granted the Seafarer 2010 & Beyond: What’s Next ulators and manning executives from the STCW as it affects the industry, seafarers, a special rate. Asian residents who book for Maritime Manpower.’ Philippines will discuss the new administra- and education and training centers. early can avail of the early rate of UK699 “Highly acclaimed as a prime networking tion’s strategies for the manning sector. The International Maritime Organiza- pounds. Between August 13 and October event, the ‘defi nitive conference on mari- A much-awaited feature of the confer- tion (IMO) held a conference of parties to 15, charges will be UK799 pounds and time manpower’ promises unrivalled oppor- ence is the Seafarer Forum in which sea- the STCW Convention in Manila on June UK899 pounds thereafter. tunities to hear a wide variety of views from farers and senior managers will debate 21 - 25, 2010 to Adopt Amendments to the International residents registering by Au- senior decision-makers from the Philippines face-to-face on how to enhance job satis- STCW Convention and STCW Code, which gust 13 will receive an early rate of UK899 and other maritime manning nations,” Kath- faction and career progression. will enter into force in 2012. pounds. Between August 13 and October ryn Barnard Informa Manning & Training A fi rst for the conference will be the ‘Man- The amendments to the STCW Conven- 15, charges will be UK999 pounds and Conferences Conference Producer said. ning and Training Cadet Forum’ wherein tion is now referred to as Manila Amend- UK1,099 pounds thereafter. The conference will feature some of the Filipino cadets will relate their experiences ments and is actually the third revision to To secure a place in the industry’s most most infl uential players in the industry in- and ambitions for a life at sea. the STCW Convention since IMO offi cially important event, visit http://www.man- cluding: Chairman of the event, V.Ships This will provide valuable insights into adopted it in 1978 and fi rst amended it in ningandtraining.com/KT0142AA or call CEO Manpower Lawrie Campbell, Interna- how the industry can promote itself to the 1995. +44(0)20 7017 5511. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 45 Donald Sagun: Wallem Cadet Par Excellence

FROM PAGE 26 in 10 years or less with Wallem,” he confi dently states. managed by WSM beginning on For its part, Wallem is proud for having September 5, 2008 until June 17, 2009. Donald as their sponsored cadet at the Since he was short of two months and PMMA. 18 days to complete his one-year required After all, Donald has given the company shipboard apprenticeship, Wallem had the honor of having a sponsored cadet Donald fi nish it onboard the AMOSUP receive a Presidential Award with High training ship Kapitan Felix Oca after Distinction for the fi rst time. disembarking from MV Shourong. Because of such honor, Wallem Donald also believes in the saying that: Shipmanagement Ltd. awarded Donald a “No person was born dumb. But there are fi nancial incentive during his graduation persons who are born lazy. (Walang taong from the academy. ipinanganak na mahina ang ulo. Pero may He was also given by the company mga taong ipinanganak na tamad.) a graduation ring as well as fi nancial Now a 24-year-old full-pledged assistance in preparation for his next mariner, Donald sees himself becoming a embarkation. master within 10 years or maybe less. He WMSI is also quite confi dent on the says that whatever initial success he had potentials of Donald as a full-pledged gained in his young life, he owes it to his mariner. very supportive parents. The company believes that he will go a “I made a very tough decision in shifting long way as a seafarer and will surely be to pursue a seafaring career four years an asset to the company. ago. I know it was tough for them but they Known in both the local and international still saw me through. Now our collective maritime industry as a company that decision is proving to be a good one,” he develops dynamic and world-class Filipino enthused. seafarers, as well as provide them with Donald is also very thankful to Wallem precious career opportunities, Wallem for all the fi nancial and moral support that has once again made its indelible mark on the company had given him all throughout Donald Sagun. his four years as a student. “Wallem gave Donald is just too willing and proud me the precious opportunity to start on a to don Wallem’s colors as a seafarer for new professional slate and I shall always many years to come or perhaps until the be grateful to them. As a matter of fact, I day when he retires from his seafaring want to work my way as a master mariner career. 46 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 47

ENTERTAINMENT By ARIANNE BLANCHE R. RODRIGUEZ Gia Silk: Beauty, Brains and Talent Rolled into One

ho wouldn’t want a woman who the time that start out as poems. I hear some has it all? music that reminds me of some human emo- W Meet Gia Silk, the newest singing tion. I think of lyrics for that and then I just sensation here in Pinas. make it fi t. Make it sound good and catchy. To say she’s gorgeous would be an un- derstatement. Aside from that, she also has TNM: What is it that you look for in a guy? the brains and the talent to match her great Gia: I look for personality. Always 100% per- looks. Added to that is her cute accent and sonality, doesn’t matter how he looks like, sensational voice. where he’s from. Yes, she’s the type of girl every other girl would love to hate except her sweetness; TNM: Not too ugly, right? charm, and winning smile just make it so im- Gia: Uhmm…no…well you can tell if a guy possible. looks after himself. It’s also a sign of intelli- Without much ado, ladies and gentle- gence. I love a guy with a sense of humor. men, introducing the lovely Gia Silk! TNM: Would you like “him” to be a musician TNM: You’re from Britain, right? also? Gia: Yes, but I was born in Parañaque. I stud- Gia: I’ve met some musicians and I do fi nd ied for a while at a British school, then moved them interesting but I haven’t met one to England when I was eight years old, then whom I’d go out on a date so probably not came back again when I was 12, and back but I wouldn’t mind. I’m open to it but I don’t to England again when I was 14. I remained know. The singers I’ve met, they kinda com- there then started schooling there, started pete. working there. I started visiting the Philippines every year when I was 21. TNM: Even if you’re a different gender? Gia: Yes, even if you’re a different gender, TNM: When did your passion for music start? even if they invited me onstage. It’s like a Gia: My dad was a presenter in television noise contest with guys, I don’t know why. shows during the ‘80s so we always had par- For the moment though, I don’t want a boy- ties. I used to go to sleep listening to his mu- friend. I’m too busy. sic. I started listening to Disney music when I was like four or fi ve years old. I didn’t tell TNM: What’s a normal day for you? anyone about my singing though until when Gia: I have a clinic in Makati. I’m into sales, I was 22 years old, someone heard me sing- marketing and fi nance. So I’m operating the ing and went like “Is that the radio?” So we clinic with our HBD partners in hospitals. So had it recorded. I started singing full-time for everyday I go to the gym in the morning; I do is it that people don’t know about you that a year but I can say my passion for it started boxing twice a week and I swim, play ten- you want them to know? when I was fi ve. nis and golf. Then it’s usually paperwork, ac- Gia: I’m very generous. I want to help ev- counting, visiting the clinic to make sure it’s eryone I can. I always help my friends, my TNM: What particular genre do you like? okay basically organizing stuff, so I’m busy family. The clinic I’m running is under a foun- Gia: Every single one. I love all types of mu- with that. In the evening I meet up with busi- dation which also supports orphanages and sic. My voice is more either commercial or ness clients or I play music. I’m relocating my people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s. RNB sounding but I love singing with bands, Dad here because he’s in full-time care so I My Dad has dementia so it’s a way for me Philippines. You know how caring Filipinos rock songs, house music, a little of hip hop, call UK in the evening. to understand what he’s going through and are. and semi-rock. see how we can help other people. TNM: How do you relax? TNM: Who’s your dream duet partner? TNM: Who was your biggest infl uence? Gia: I go to the gym everyday and I have TNM: You mentioned that your Dad has de- Gia: Eminem! That’d be amazing! I’d love to Gia: In the beginning, it was Madonna. I my music. It relaxes me. I sing and it’s like mentia. A lot of people don’t know what it have a duet with him. If I meet him one day, used to dance around, singing “Like a Vir- therapy. is and don’t understand people who have that’d be when I’d be completely starstruck. gin.” Over the years, it was Fleetwood Mac. I that. I’d just freeze and kiss his feet. I’d ask him to love Fleetwood Mac! I love the ‘80s legends. TNM: How would you compare the mu- Gia: Yes, that’s true. In my Dad’s case, it marry me even though I don’t want to get Present day, I’d say it’s Alicia Keys. I love Ali- sic scene in London and the music scene commenced around three years ago and married! cia Keys! here? for 18 months nobody knew what it was. We Gia: Oh it’s very different. In London at the just thought he had mental illness. Dementia TNM: What’s your advice to upcoming musi- TNM: Would you consider trying out acting? moment, they’re looking for very young art- basically starts as a brain clot which you can cians? Gia: I don’t like to say no but I know that I ists and it’s all rock and grungy. Not very get from stroke or impact. The clot in your Gia: Never give up! Don’t listen to anyone probably can’t act (laughs). good role models really (laughs). You know brain then stops the brain from regenerating who puts you down. Believe in yourself al- like when you’re a teenager and rebelling? new cells and then it slowly gets taken over. ways otherwise you’ll be the only person TNM: You’re also a model, right? Here in Manila it’s more grown-up, lots of who can pull you down. Gia: I have done some modeling, yes. I’ve love songs and lots of ‘80s music and I love TNM: This is something that people should been approached to do some endorse- the ‘80s! So it’s very different. I wouldn’t be know and understand. TNM: What’s your message to our Filipino ments, and yes, I’ve done some bikini stuff. doing myself any favor if I started my career Gia: Yes, that’s true. seafarers? I’ve also done some modeling for my dad over there in the UK because that’s not how Gia: Always treat people the way you want when I was younger like Johnson and John- I want to be. I don’t want to be a bad role TNM: What are your future plans? to be treated. Stay happy! One of my favor- son when I was a baby. model or a bad example. Gia: Right now I’m busy with the clinic. I have ite songs in my album is “My Pride” and it’s a dog in Bali right now and I’m having him all about having your own pride and being TNM: Do you write your songs? TNM: When people see you they see some- move. I’m going to get my Dad because he happy everyday and if you are happy ev- Gia: Yes, I write all my songs. I write lyrics all one gorgeous and hot and sexy, but what would be taken care of better here in the eryday then you can spread it around. 48 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

aking the cue from the dynamism and innovativeness of Marlow TNavigation Phils., Inc. (MNPI) aimed at constantly striving to provide MMNTCNTC UUshersshers WWorld’sorld’s excellent service to its Filipino seafarers and principals, Marlow Navigation Training Center (MNTC) has offi cially ushered a ground-breaking maritime training equipment, which as per industry sources, FFirstirst HHeavyeavy LLiftift SSimulatorimulator is the fi rst of its kind in the world. On August 24, 2010, offi cials of MNTC, such as the hydrodynamic ably backstopped by executives of MNPI, data of the ship, healing proudly introduced the world’s fi rst heavy encountered, and the ballast lift cargo handling simulator to the local movement needed to limit maritime media in a calculated move to the maximum degree of list eventually roll it out to both the local and during cargo operations. international maritime industry. MNTC’s latest investment in the fi eld of Heavy Lift Course advanced maritime training only reinforced MNTC has likewise the Marlow Navigation global trademark, designed a heavy lift course which is that of being ahead on initiatives that shall fully utilize the geared towards the continuous knowledge heavy lift simulator and is and skills improvement of its seafarers for now undergoing fi nal tests the utmost satisfaction of its principals. to achieve perfection. The The installation of the world’s fi rst ever fi nal testing phase will take heavy lift cargo handling simulator at the several weeks; three to four MNTC was a successful joint undertaking days each week. Every of the development team of MNTC, week, four off-duty Marlow Heavylift Management Level Offi cers of deck offi cers and Masters MNPI, and simulator developer Applied will try out the course and Research International (ARI) of India. shall be asked for feedbacks The fully-advanced maritime training to further enhance the equipment is Marlow Navigation’s direct The wide screen LCD monitor of the heavy lift simulation at the bridge for the Master. course and the simulation answer to the increasing demands of itself. ship owners and charterers to further The course includes standard scenarios harness the expertise of deck offi cers in in project and heavy lift operations from the the effective and swift handling of heavy initial feasibility study, tool box meetings lift principles onboard Heavylift ships. prior loading, underlying mathematical It took the development team of MNTC concepts of stability as well as the training six months to complete the heavy lift on customary stability and cargo care simulator whose cost is estimated at half software. a million US dollars. Also covered are the aspects from the More than the amount and the time commercial and legal considerations to needed to develop and complete the the practical considerations of slinging, innovative training equipment however rigging, lashing and welding, and removal is the fact that Marlow Navigation made of pad eyes and “D-rings.” the investment at a time when the global The course also provides the standard maritime industry was in the doldrums, instructions for heavy lift operators, refl ecting yet again the company’s dos and don’ts, and discusses rare and unwavering commitment in the constant extraordinary cases. development of its seaborne workforce. According to MNTC Training Director Before the development of the heavy Mona Lisa Intong, the heavy lift simulator lift simulator, MNTC has already installed was built in the Philippines because of four crane driving cabins used for training the company’s strong commitment to the deck ratings in crane handling simulations A Marlow deck offi cer trying his hands on the heavy lift simulator from the view and position of the Filipino seafarers. since 2009. Two of these cabins are now Chief Mate during the handling operation. “Marlow Navigation’s commitment to the being used in the combined two- crane heavy lift simulation. Heavy lift cargo simulation is a four-man operation. Aside from the two cabins, two simulation monitors are placed. One is the “bridge view” where the Master oversees the operation and from where he also have access to tank or ballast operations. The fourth monitor is the “jetty view” or “deck view” for the Chief Offi cer who coordinates the movements of the cranes, healing angles encountered, and required ballast pumping operations. The simulation for the Chief Mate is done in a separate room for a more The two cabins being used in performing a combined two-crane heavy lift simulation. realistic scenario where he has to correspond with the other operators The ships used in the development of Navigation. Every necessary aspect of a real Filipino seafarers and the local maritime using only a radio communicator or the heavy lift simulation were based on heavy lift operation were considered and industry as a whole is quite unparalleled walkie-talkie. existing vessels being managed Marlow utilized in the development of the simulator and it comes all the way from Marlow SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 49 MMNTCNTC UUshersshers WWorld’sorld’s FirstFirst HeavyHeavy LiftLift SSimulatorimulator Navigation Co. Ltd. Chairman Hermann Eden from the head offi ce in Cyprus,” Mrs. Intong stated. The fact that MNTC has become known in the maritime industry as a haven for advanced maritime training facilities has also made the choice for the site of the heavy lift simulator a lot easier for Marlow Navigation. “If everything goes as planned, the same simulator will also be established in other countries like Ukraine,” cites Mrs. Intong. At the moment, MNTC shall provide the heavy lift course Mrs. Mona Lisa Intong, MNTC Training Director explains the salient features of the fi rst-of-its-kind heavylift simulator to the fi rst batch of Marlow offi cer-trainees. to Marlow seafarers but the company is also open to the idea of offering it to seafarers outside of the employ of its principal. Due to the substantial investments and high operating costs of the heavy lift simulator, plus the fact that only four trainees can be accommodated per course, a participant shall be charged a signifi cant but nonetheless competitive training fee. “Of course, Marlow deck offi cers are free of charge if they avail of the training and it is just one of the many privileges of being a Marlow seafarer,” enthuses Mrs. Intong.

More Challenges Ahead At present, Marlow Navigation is managing and manning more than 100 heavy lift vessels and more than 20 vessels are expected to be added in the coming years. MNTC trains about 600 seafarers everyday. Half of this number is composed of cadets and the remaining are seafarers who take short courses in between assignments. It would be possible that the number would increase to 800 or 1,000 as the number of vessels to be manned by the company increases over time. Marlow’s present Seafarer Dormitory has 318 beds for controlled accommodation to cadets. The latest acquisition of the company is the building situated next to the dormitory and plans of converting it as an expansion are now in the works. The MNTC Training Director says that the company sees to it that they could accommodate those participants who don’t have a place to stay in Manila. The company is also aiming to introduce assessment and refresher courses for their offi cers in regular intervals of three years. This is also in accordance to the statutory requirement in Eastern Europe. With the new heavy lift simulation and more innovative plans in the future, MNTC is truly making signifi cant strides towards becoming the best training ground to equip Filipino seafarers with skills meant for their onboard jobs. Being a dynamic company, MNTC always presents something new for Marlow seafarers and the only logical question would be: “What’s next?” 50 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 I AM SORRY U.S., China, and Philippines test their marksmanship. American put an apple on the head of a man, shot and hit the apple. Then he said, I am Rambo. The Chinese put a lanzones, hit it also and said. I am Jet Li. Pinoy put a small calamansi which delighted the crowd. Shot and hit the forehead of the man and said: I AM CANCEL THE INSURANCE SEX EDUCATION SORRY. A farmer went to the insurance Limang bagay ang magbabago kapag company to claim the coverage for nagkaroon ng sex education. SIGE ANG EXERCISE his burned-down barn. He wanted to 1.Lahat pumapasok sa klase. Doctor: Nag-i-exercise ba ang mister be paid in cash but the bank said that 2.Hindi na mauuso ang cutting mo? they would just replace the burned classes. Misis: Oo naman, Doc. barn and no cash payment. Exactly 3.Lahat sumasali sa recitation. Doctor: Anong klaseng exercise? the same size and the same materials. 4.Lahat pasado sa pagsusulit. Misis: Maraming klase. Nandyan yang The farmer replied, if that is your policy, At ang pinakamalupit. nagbubuhat siya ng sariling bangko, I will cancel the insurance of my wife. 5.Walang maingay. Lahat naka- tumatakbo sa utang, at nilalakad ang focus sa leksiyon. mga kaso niya na estafa. ISANG KAYAMANAN END OF THE WORLD Inteng: Pare, hindi ka ba natatakot na Isang ina ang nagsilang ng isang malapit na ang end of the world? napakapangit na sanggol. Kosme: Hindi ako takot diyan, pre. Ina: Isa siyang kayamanan. Ang kinatatakutan ko ay end of the Tatay: Oo nga. Ibaon natin siya. month. Ang daming naniningil.

MUKHANG KALABAW IWASAN ANG STRESS BF: Sinapak ko ‘yung nakasalubong ko kanina. Sinabihan ba naman ako na Halos lahat ng problema ay dala ng mukha raw akong magsasaka kapag stress. Kaya makakabuti ang tumingin katabi kita. lang sa mga magagandang bagay at GF: Huwag kang magagalit babes, tao para marelax. Ipikit mo ang iyong marangal naman ang magsasaka. ang mga mata kung may pangit na Bakit naman nasabi niya ‘yun? dumarating. BF: Kasi mukha ka raw kalabaw. GF: Hah! Nasaan ba ‘yung hayop na ‘yon at papatayin ko?!

HE WOULDN’T TELL ME A new secretary is complaining to her friend about the bad day she had in the offi ce. Her boss suffered a heart attack and died. How horrible! What did you do? The secretary shook her head. There was nothing that I could do. He kept yelling at me to call 9-1-1, KAUNTI PANG PANAHON but he wouldn’t tell me the rest of the VERY UNDERSTANDING numbers. Roger: Pare, nakalimutan mo na ba SIMILARITY Nanay: Anak, okay ba ‘yung boyfriend na may utang ka sa akin na isang mo? libong piso? Aside from the letters comprising them, Anak: Okay naman, Nay. Guwapo Fredo: Hindi pa naman Pare, pero MAHIWAGA what is the similarity between BRA and siya, hindi naninigarilyo, hindi pagbigyan mo pa ako ng kaunting Bakit ang tao kapag nakahubad ang BAR? naglalasing, hindi rin nagsusugal at panahon, makakalimutan ko na rin tawag ay naked pero kapag manok Answer: Both are places where men very understanding ang asawa niya at ‘yan. dressed? go crazy when they are open. mga anak. SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 51 UFS Seeks Abolition of Assessment of Seafarer Ratings FROM PAGE 18 capabilities after undergoing assessment,” Director Paragua stressed. force in 2012, seafarer assessment of In addition, Director Paragua is also fl ag state administrations should already coordinating with the IT teams of the be decentralized not just to streamline the Professional Regulation Commission, process but more importantly to improve the MTC and TESDA to have a single the system,” Director Paragua explained. verifi cation system of certifi cates of “We want assessment to be a shared all Filipino seafarers for easy industry responsibility and accountability between reference and also for the other fl ag state the government and the private sector so administrations of the world. the MTC is slowly relinquishing the function “It is not actually just a statement that of assessment to private maritime training ‘it should be done,’ but more of ‘it must centers. We shall be doing the same with be done,’” says Director Paragua who TESDA as well,” he pointed out. disclosed that the single verifi cation system Based on the records of MTC, there are of seafarer certifi cates was what the now 21 local maritime training centers that Philippine delegation to the International conduct the competency assessment of Maritime Organization has proposed as their own seafarer-trainees. part of the amendments to the STCW “The government only comes in to Convention. monitor and evaluate the work of the private Among government agencies that maritime training centers to ensure their handle seafarer certifi cation, TESDA is compliance to our standards through our the fi rst to have an electronic database quality team,” added Director Paragua. of all certifi cates. The agency has even He admitted that assessment has uploaded everything on its website so somewhat become a ‘threat’ to many that anyone can see for himself whether TESDA Executive Director Clifford Paragua, who concurrently holds the position of Acting Executive Filipino seafarers because of fl aws in the certifi cate of a certain Filipino seafarer Director of the Maritime Training Council, is pushing for the decentralization of assessment of the system. “We want to change the rating is authentic just by comparing it with Filipino seafarers and wants it to be the shared responsibility and accountability between the perception about assessments by ridding its exact replica on the TESDA website. government and the private sector. it of unnecessary intricacies. Assessment Director Paragua also belittles the but the seafarer has his picture on the barring any glitches, the single verifi cation should be a positive experience for Filipino threat of duplication or imitation of TESDA certifi cate itself so unless the guy is the system can actually be put on stream seafarers because it is a scientifi c method seafarer certifi cates that can be gleaned identical twin of the seafarer who has the before the end of 2010. “It shall be pretty where they would know their level of on its website by technically-savvy but certifi cate, he would not be able to use the much the work of the IT guys of each shipboard competencies. Seafarers should otherwise unscrupulous elements. “They document to represent himself.” agency so it can be done within a couple of feel good about themselves and their can print and copy the certifi cates alright The TESDA Executive Director said that months,” he said. 52 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

and staffs that are based and operates abroad so it would take some time before Surging Dutch Legal Tide About the results of our investigation on the company becomes clear. If there are violations or breaches of the law on its part, to Sink the ‘Unsinkable’ Lafeber it will obviously be acted upon swiftly.” onald Lafeber, the Dutch national Lafeber’s Trail of Notoriety who has established notoriety in In 2009, Tinig ng Marino has already Rthe Philippine manning industry, for exposed the double-contract modus duping partner manning agencies and a operandi of Ronald Lafeber. This illicit good number of Filipino seafarers through act was reported to the United Filipino double contracts, is now perhaps in the Seafarers (UFS) and Engr. Nelson Ramirez hottest water of his entire life as a double- by a Dutch principal whose ships are being crosser. provided its crewing needs by Gyron Crew A news report that appeared in using Filipino seafarers. Schuttevear, a newspaper in the Each deployed seafarer was said Netherlands, furnished to Tinig ng Marino to have double contracts. One is being in July 2010 by Dutch sources indicated that submitted to POEA and the other is for the the Dutch authorities is now in hot pursuit Dutch employer but it is withheld or not of Lafeber. This developed as the company shown at all to the Filipino seafarer. The Lafeber has been representing for quite two contracts have different details. some time with several Dutch shipowners, The Dutch principal of Gyron is paying Gyron Shipping Pte. Ltd of Singapore with its Filipino crew according to standards its crewing arm Gyron Crew, Inc. in Manila of Netherlands on wages but the Filipino have been found to be shortchanging the seafarers are actually receiving the lower salaries of its Filipino seafarers deployed salary stipulated in their POEA contracts. onboard Dutch-fl agged ships plying inland It does not take a genius to fi gure out waters of the Netherlands. that Gyron and Lafeber were paying the The report from the Netherlands said Filipinos less than what was set forth in that four Filipino seafarers have publicly their respective contracts in Netherlands. come out in the open and sought the Tinig ng Marino has been very assistance of a Dutch lawyer to seek persistent to have Lafeber’s side on this remunerations that was due to them by issue. Among the efforts made includes the Ronald Lafeber is now in the hottest water that he has ever been in his entire life. Gyron totally amounting to 75,959.95 sending of e-mails and faxes, couriering Euros. The four seafarers, among many terms of the law in the Philippines. The with the collective labor agreement based personal letters from the publisher to the others, were apparently employed and second contract is the Dutch employment on Dutch employment standards. offi ce of Lafeber’s Gyron Crew in Ermita, deployed onboard Dutch-fl agged ships contract, whose copy is never furnished to The employment of Filipino seafarers Manila. through Gyron. the seafarers for the obvious reason that it onboard Dutch-fl agged ships has also These attempts were rejected and The four sailors were each receiving contains the actual salaries to be paid to become a contentious issue in the country ended up with Gyron’s claim that Lafeber salaries of 397 Euros per month when in them by their Dutch employer. and it is now being studied by Minister was not connected to their agency. fact, under the Dutch law, they are each Gyron Crew Inc. is a duly-registered Donner, who heads the Dutch ministry on Of course the denial is an obvious entitled to a take-home pay of 1,118.54 sea-based manpower agency by virtue of social affairs and employment. cover-up. There are even rumors going Euros per month plus 8% holiday pay. its POEA license that runs up to November Apparently Dutch shipowners operating around the industry grapevine that the The preliminary hearing on the case 21, 2011. ships in inland waters are generating a lady president of Gyron Crew, who is said lodged by the four Filipino seafarers was The company claims that it is employing savings of not less than 35,000 Euros be Vietnamese, is very close with Ronald held last July 7, 2010 at the court in Breda Filipino seafarers for deployment to some per year in employing Filipino seafarers Lafeber while he is in the Philippines. in Rotterdam as disclosed by Dutch lawyer When the published story came out Hansen van Avinci. The fi rst formal hearing last year, it was only when Ronald Lafeber of the case is to be heard on October made his rejoinder, which Tinig ng Marino, 2010. in the spirit of fairness, published in full. As The four Filipino seafarers, along with to whether his explanations were found to several other Filipinos who used to be be satisfactory by parties who have been employed on Dutch-fl agged inland ships aggrieved by Gyron and himself is no through Gyron, with a good number of longer a question of who’s wrong or right them being Masters, have transferred but who’s on the wrong side of the law employment from Gyron to Oceanriver 180 Dutch-fl agged ships plying inland instead of employing Dutch crew who only most of the time. Shipping, Inc. where they are being paid in waters. However, as early as 2008, the work on a two weeks on and two weeks off For all his notorious misfi ts since showing accordance to existing Dutch laws. Dutch Tax and Customs Administration in basis with full pay. his face in the local maritime industry in the The Dutch Labour Inspectorate is Herleen has found that Gyron Shipping is UWV Werkbedrijf, the Dutch manpower late 90s, it is still a wonder to the UFS why now investigating how Gyron was able not a formal Dutch employer but is only services organization in charge of granting Lafeber can slipped in and out of the country to provide work permits and contracts to brokering as an employer and has branded permits for non-EU subjects, studies at his convenience despite being declared non-EU nationals, particularly Filipinos. the company as fi ctitious and its operation and decides whether certain jobs in the as a persona non-grata and deported by Its initial probe has gathered that Filipino illegal. Netherlands is no longer being pursued by the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation seafarers are being hired via eight-month Gyron has been found to be also EU workers and can be offered to non-EU in 2002. The Department of Justice even shipboard contracts and even logged in at withholding the taxes and premiums workers provided the Dutch employer has issued a memorandum on September 1, least 85 overtime hours per month with no being collected from its employed Filipino exhausted all means possible to hire EU 2006 offi cially putting Lafeber on the BID’s extra payment. seafarers to the Dutch government, workers but failed. watchlist. It turns out that Filipino seafarers are claiming that its Filipino seafarers are Dutch employers can actually hire Aside from being technically an illegal being duped via the double-contract modus exempted from paying such under their foreign workers provided they comply with alien, Lafeber had practically left a trail of operandi, which have been perfected as POEA contract. the strict stipulation of the country’s Aliens mess in the local maritime industry as he an art by Ronald Lafeber before and is still Unlike Gyron, other crewing companies Employment Act. took advantage of Filipino seafarers whose employing the same tactic representing operating in the Netherlands and deploying On the issue of the questionable work only wish is to be able to fi nd rewarding Gyron this time. The fi rst contract being Filipino seafarers onboard Dutch-fl agged permits issued by Gyron to its Filipino employments for their families’ future by signed by the Filipino seafarers employed ships operating in inland waters like seafarers, Minister Donner was quoted duping them of their hard-earned salaries. through Gyron is the POEA contract, which Oceanriver Shipping, ShipCrew and Gerwil to have said: “It is a large and complex Lafeber’s initial foray in the local indicates a lower salary but within the are paying their Filipino crew in accordance research. Gyron employs a large workforce TURN TO PAGE 53 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 53 Surging Dutch Legal Tide About to Sink the ‘Unsinkable’ Lafeber and maliciously written and published FROM PAGE 52 million worth of pension funds of 200 Filipino Then in August 28, 2006, Ramirez had seafarers was said to have vanished in the by Ramirez, as the editor-in-chief and the rare opportunity again to cross path maritime industry was when he came here hands of a foreign principal named Ronald publisher of Tinig ng Marino. with Ronald Lafeber in Ermita, Manila and and introduced himself as the managing Lafeber. Lafeber added that Ramirez conveyed the Dutch national was quoted to have director of C-Link Pte Ltd., a Singapore If there is one personality in the local false and malicious imputations that said to Ramirez: “We are celebrating. We principal of Capt. Rodolfo Estampador’s maritime industry that Ronald Lafeber he (Lafeber) is a corrupt, swindler, closed our offi ce. Thank you,” referring to Jzel Company. Back in 1998, his company hates the most, it is certainly no other untrustworthy, unscrupulous, and devious C-Link. was blacklisted by POEA and was ordered than Engr. Nelson Ramirez, the outspoken individual. Such imputations, according to It was a temporary victory for Ramirez to completely end its recruitment of seamen President of the UFS. Lafeber, were offensive and derogatory and the UFS at that time because not and other Filipino workers. Ramirez was a to his good name, long afterwards Lafeber was back, this The sanction was handed down by thorn in the neck of character and time using the Gyron cover to camoufl age POEA because of C-link’s conspiracy with Lafeber ever since. ‘Filipino seafarers are reputation. his seeming noble intention of providing Jzel that deceived the government agency They have literally being duped via the On April 5, 2009, employment to Filipino seafarers onboard when it deployed four Filipino seafarers on crossed paths both after more than nine Dutch-fl agged ships. a non-existent offshore tugboat in Brunei. in actual and also in double-contract modus years, the libel case While Lafeber may have eluded laws Another industry personality that is very a multi-million libel operandi, which have been was junked by the in the Philippines, it is highly unlikely that glaring on Lafeber’s resume of notoriety is case that the Dutch Manila Regional he would be able to extricate himself from Ma. Luz A. Alicer, President of Crewlink, national fi led in court perfected as an art Trial Court Branch the pressure that the Dutch authorities and Inc. sometime in 2000. by Ronald Lafeber.’ 40. A 10-page the stringent Dutch laws are putting on him In 1998, she fi led a case against Lafeber The libel case decision penned these days. Eventually the long arm of the for the failure of C-Link to remit to Crewlink stemmed from an by Judge Placido law will catch up with Lafeber sooner than manning fees amounting to almost PhP 7 article in the January-February 1999 issue C. Marquez, acquits Ramirez due to the later. million for the period from January 1995 of Tinig ng Marino entitled ‘Old Habits failure of Lafeber to prove Ramirez’s guilt Again, in the spirit of fairness and to October 1997 as provided for in their Die Hard’ that fi rst stoked the fi re between beyond reasonable doubt. balanced journalism, Tinig ng Marino has manning agreement. Ramirez and Lafeber. While the libel case was being heard, sought the side of Lafeber on this newfound It took four years for the Manila Regional The Dutch national fi led a libel case Ramirez and Lafeber had the opportunity issue or mess that he got himself into but Trial Court to fi nally come up with a decision against Ramirez to the tune of more than to meet by accident. At that time, Lafeber he has made himself scarce again or may on September 16, 2002. PhP 6 million in actual and moral damages was already a declared persona non-grata have yet to come up with a formidable The court decision was in favor of on February 14, 2000. by the BID so it came as a big surprise to position or excuse on the matter. Alicer and ordered Lafeber and C-Link to Lafeber alleged that Ramirez wrote the the UFS president why the Dutch national Efforts to reach him through Gyron pay damages including the PhP 7 million article with evident intent of exposing him was still freely roaming in the country. Crew, just like before, end up in futility, as unremitted manning fees. to public hatred, contempt and ridicule. “Your laws can do anything against me,” practically everyone in the offi ce denies Sometime in March 2005, a local Lafeber also claimed that the article Lafeber was quoted to have remark to him, even claiming that they hardly heard maritime paper reported that some US$1.5 was willfully, unlawfully, feloniously Ramirez. of the name much more knew the person. 54 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 The Commander Never Forgets Good day, Sir Nelson. I signed off last June 2010 from the vessel MT Torm Kristina of Torm Philippines as Second Assistant Engineer. I am so thankful for all the great help you did to my life as a seafarer. I have been successful with my ca- reer as a marine engineer because of your selfl essness and kindness. I will never forget the very important role you have played and continues From Volunteer to to play in my life. My best regards to you, to the Crewing and Training Manager staff, as well as to all the UFS vol- Good day to you, Sir Nelson, and please extend my greetings to all the staff and vol- unteers. unteers of United Filipino Seafarers and Tinig ng Marino. I trust that everyone is in good To the volunteers, I’m looking for- health. I sincerely congratulate you for all the achievements of the union over the years ward to your success as full-fl edged and I am just too proud to be a product of the UFS. seafarers in the not-so-distant future. I would not have been able to fulfi ll my vision without your support and that of the union. Don’t lose hope and always strive 2AE Felipe Delgado of the UFS (kneeling in front) is Looking back in 1996 when I fi rst served as a volunteer staff with the UFS at Luneta, I can’t hard to reach your goal. Even if you shown with his fellow engine crew of MT Torm Kristina help but reminisce the very interesting and exciting experiences I had with the union. encounter so much hardship in life, including EC Edgar Cestena II, Electrician Gilbert De I was able to manage all the challenges, diffi culties and hardships that I went through just go on because at the end of the Guzman, Motorman Allan Nambong, Fitter Dominador amidst fi nancial constraints because of UFS. day you will fi nd success. Trials and Alicaba, 3AE Mariano Glen, C/E Bryan Garcia, and 1AE I even recall that at several points during those times, I would only eat once a day. hardships are just spices necessary Edwin Gatungan. But I was unperturbed. I was determined to become a seafarer, a Chief Engineer actu- to make us better persons. ally. Equipping myself with hard Until my next e-mail or letter, Sir Nelson. Kindly extend my regards to C/E Leandro work, dedication and courage, J. Dapal and Capt. Daniel Fajelagutan and C/E Emmanuel N. Relato. God bless us all! I was able to slowly realize my – 2AE Felipe Delgado MT Torm Kristina, Kobenhavn dream, with God’s help and the It’s nice to know Commander, as you are fondly called here during your tenure as a UFS UFS, of course. volunteer, that you continue to keep in touch with the UFS at every phase of your career. It’s been 14 years since that We are happy to know that you are about to take a crack at becoming a management time but I could not believe that level engineer offi cer and given your talent and experience, we are confi dent that you up until now, the problems of will make it. Thanks also for your advice to our present crop of volunteers. Keep up the Filipino seafarers before are still good work! – Editor the same problems these days. Unnecessary and redundant documentation are still part of their woes. Certifi cation is still an Babala Para sa mga Marino issue even though I can dare say Ito’y isang babala mula sa isang marino tungkol sa kanyang masamang karanasan sa Status that we Filipino seafarers are Maritime Corporation, isang manning agency: Sa una ay aasikasuhin ka nila at o-offer-an ka pa ng malaking sahod ngunit pinapadama ka lang over qualifi ed compared to other C/E Allan Danghil in his work station at Foscon. seafarer nationalities. pala nila. Papipirmahin ka ng POEA contract at ipapa-medical exam ka pa. Pagkatapos ng mga ito, I just wonder why our government is still insisting that seafarers undergo more train- saka pa lang sasabihin sa iyo na kulang ang mga training certifi cates mo o mga dokumento kung ing which just cause confusion on several inspecting foreign authorities onboard vessels saan ay pipilitin kang kunin sa anumang paraan. Sa tamang proseso, kapag pinapirma ka na ng particularly port state control. I personally witnessed this as a seafarer so I can say that it kontrata at pinag-medical exam, ibig sabihin, kumpleto ka na sa mga requirements. Kapag nagreklamo ka na sa kanila, sasabihin nilang ang sasakyan mong barko ay dumadaan really happens. sa Somalia at sa Mombasa, Kenya kaya obligado ka raw umanong kunin o kumpletuhin ang mga Again, thank you very much Sir Nelson for your help. I am now a licensed Chief En- requirements na kanilang inilalatag. Taliwas ito sa usapan ng Crewing Offi cer nila bago ka papirmahin gineer and currently working for Foscon Shipmanagement, Inc. as Crewing and Training ng kontrata dahil titiyakin nitong hindi dumadaan ang kanilang mga barko sa Somalia. Manager. Nang malaman kong taliwas sa aming napagkasunduan ang aking employment, nag-back out ako My advice to the volunteers that are still there: keep on going. Do not stop working hard sa kompanya at gumawa ako ng letter withdrawing my employment from their company.Sinabihan pa and aiming high because in the end, you will reap the rewards of all your efforts. Sir Nelson ako ng kanilang mga crewing personnel na sisirain nila ako para hindi ako makapagbarko. Sa halip and the UFS, I salute you. – C/E Allan Danghil, UFS ‘96 na isauli ang aking mga dokumento, nagreklamo pa sila sa POEA kung saan nagkaroon pa kami ng conciliation meeting na nauwi rin sa wala. Napilitan akong magreklamo sa Legal Department ng I am delighted to know Allan that you have earned yourself a shore-based managerial POEA ng kasong Withholding or Denying Travel Documents from Seafarer (Section 2(i) of Rule II, Part V of the 2003 Seafarers Rule). position in a ship management company at a rather young stage in your seafaring ca- Dito na sa puntong ito ako humingi ng tulong sa ITF sa pamamagitan ni Sir Rodrigo Aguinaldo reer. It really speaks a lot about how good you are as an engineer offi cer and also as a at sa UFS sa pamamagitan ni Engr. Nelson P. Ramirez upang tulungan akong matapos ang usap- manager. We are confi dent that with your suffi cient experience and good knowhow of ing ito dahil buhay at kinabukasan ng aking pamilya ang nakataya. Nawa’y magsilbi itong babala sa the local maritime industry, you will be able to effectively and successfully handle your mga marinong gusto o balak mag-apply sa Status Maritime Corporation – Name Withheld Upon job well. Keep it up! – Editor Request MMakeake youryour day!day! Now available in selected newsstands in Manila! Published every two months, Tinig ng Marino is also distributed in ;PROVOCATIVE more than 400 ports and hundreds of seamen’s centers and Filipino-manned vessels around the world. INFORMATIVE ; Subscribe now to Tinig ng Marino! ;RELEVANT Single copies (Air Mail) Name:______Metro Manila-Php 35 CONTROVERSIAL Province-Php 45 ; Asia - U.S$ 4.00; Europe - U.S$6.00 ;ENTERTAINING Address :______Africa - U.S$6.50 IMPORTANT: Please make cheque bank draft payable to the United Filipino Seafarers, One year rates: (6 issues, Air Mail) Philippines:P300.00 Room402, Gedisco Terrace Building, 1148 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Philippines Asia - US$24.00 seafarers’ newspaper 1000 Europe - US$36.00;l Africa - US$39.00 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010 TINIG NG MARINO 55 56 TINIG NG MARINO SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010