TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) celebrated Valentine’s Day with a special event to honor its seafarer-trainees and their significant contributions to the Philippine economy. Dubbed as Trainees’ Valentine’s Night, the activity aimed to recognize and appreciate the contributions of Filipino seafarers while fostering camaraderie and teamwork among the NMP seafarer-trainees.
The event featured various activities such as games and Search for King and Queen of Hearts which elicited cheers and applause from audience and offered a fun and engaging way for NMP trainees to bond and unwind after a day of classes and practical training.
In her opening remarks, NMP OIC Executive Director Mayla N. Macadawan expressed that the activity was not just a celebration of love, but also a tribute to all seafarers. “Filipino seafarers play a crucial role in driving the growth of our economy. Their hard work and dedication in the maritime industry have contributed significantly to the Philippines’ development and progress,” she said.
Drawing from her recent attendance at the Human Element Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) Technical Meeting with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), she emphasized the importance for the Filipino seafarers to stay competitive in the maritime industry by keeping up with the maritime technological advancements.
“As the maritime industry is rapidly evolving, I encourage all of you to take the initiative to study the latest technological trends and equip yourselves with the necessary knowledge and skills to meet the demands of the field,” she shared. “Keeping up with these advancements is essential for achieving sustainability and staying competitive in the global market,” she added.
The activity was just one of the many initiatives of the NMP to provide holistic training and support for Filipino seafarers. The Agency offers various programs that equip its trainees with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the maritime industry while promoting their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
As the event ended, NMP trainees left with smiles on their faces, new friends/comrades, and a renewed sense of appreciation for the seafaring profession. NMP commits to continue organizing events like this not only to train competent seafarers but also to create a strong community of maritime professionals who are proud to represent the Philippines in the global stage.