Filscapts is a group of seasoned Filipino master mariners and captains, both active and now manning executives, who share the strong desire to help develop the Phil-ippine maritime industry. It also aims to position the country as the number one maritime nation in Asia, if not the world.Among the pioneering officers of Fils-

capts are Capt. Victor Del Prado, president; Capt. Jaime D. Quiñones, VP–internal; Capt. Hernando Eusebio, VP–external; Capt. Walfredo Rivas, secretary; and Capt. Roberto Nieto, treasurer.The board of directors consist of Cap-

tains Nick Altares, Constantino Arcel-lana, Jr., Dever Besana, Severro Cuison, Jr.,

Fidel Dinoso, Del Prado, Eusebio, Donato Marfil, Nieto, Antonio Palenzuela, Quino-nes, Rodolfo Paz, Rivas, Juanito Salvati-erra and Danilo Venida.New members were inducted by Capt.

Del Prado.Filscapts intends to encourage and pro-

mote high standards of qualification, com-petence, and knowledge among Filipino Ship Captains (Master Mariners) to en-sure shipboard Safe Operational Practices, Preservation from Human Injury, Protec-tion of the Environment and Safety of Life and Property at Sea.Filscapts also plans to cooperate with

government agencies, other groups and

associations, and educational institutions in furthering the development of nautical science education and professional prac-tice.The group also plans to encourage mari-

time research and publication of its re-sults.Another objective of the group is to unite

the Filipino ship captains into a cohesive group establishing and maintaining ap-propriate educational and professional standard of membership.It also intends to foster camaraderie and

harmonious relationship among all Fili-pino ship captains promoting high ideals of professional ethics, integrity, prestige

and dedication to the merchant marine service.It will actively participate and provide

maritime-related technical expert advices or consultancy works or assistance to gov-ernment and private agencies, bodies or associations in pursuit towards develop-ment, and improvements of safety of ships, lives, properties and environment in the local and international shipping industry.Lastly, it aims to promote, encourage

and develop continuing socio-economic programs for the welfare of its members, as well as their families, and further serve as vehicle through which government and private assistance, grants, support can be beneficially extended to its members and their families.Filscapts was incorporated under the Se-

curities and Exchange Commission on 19 June 2009. ■

September–October 2009

Empowering Maritime EntrepreneursVol. 2 No. 6Php35.00

3 5PMMAAAI new website Sailing ship visits Manila

4 6

By zenaida p. magnial

AIMS, Soname ink pact

new group aims to position Rp as world’s top maritime nation

Skippers form FilscaptsNo less than Capt. Gregorio S. Oca, president of the Associated Marine and Seamen’s Union

of the Philippines, Inc. (AMOSUP), inducted the first set of officers of the Society of Filipino Ship Captains, Inc. (Filscapts) at the Manila Yacht Club in Roxas Boulevard, Manila last September 24, 2009. The captain then issued a check worth Php50,000 as donation for Filscapts fund—the first to be received by the new group.

Harborscope’s executive director, Zenaida P. Magnial, was recently invited by Frost &

Sullivan as one of its’ presentors.

Harborscope presents award

Filscapts president Capt. Victor del Prado receive the group’s first donation from

AMOSUP president Capt. Gregorio S. Oca.

The annual event, held at the Grand Ballroom of the Intercontinental Hotel in Singapore last July 23, 2009, recognizes Asia Pacific’s top transportation and logistic companies.Media partners for the awards include Harborscope,

Logistics Insight Asia, Business Today, and Logistics Digest. ■

2 September – October 2009 www.haRBORScOpe.com mate check

MATEcheckMATEcheck

The scholars are Cristoval Abello, Alven Booc, Zoren Ehimplar, Luie Fuentes, Mark Lister Gonzales, Chuck Mandal, Jude Rhey Piol, and Dariel SancadosJMI VP for Crewing Arleen V. Asuncion,

JMI and Harbor Training Center AVP for Training Capt. Alfredo V. Vidal Jr., and Aboitiz Foundation EVP and Managing Trustee Sonny Carpio were present.The scholars were among those with high

academic standing and belonged to the top 20% of their high school batch. They showed good potential to excel but were fi-nancially constrained to enter college.The Abojeb JMI-Aboitiz Foundation

scholarship program was established in 2006, with the first batch of scholars com-posed of 10 MarE students from the UC-Maritime Education and Training Center, and eight from Davao Merchant Marine Academy of Southern Philippines. They

graduated last April and are currently on-board Aboitiz Transport System vessels for the primary phase of their shipboard train-ing. They eventually will be transferred to overseas vessels manned by Abojeb to complete their training requirements.“We are confident that our second batch

of scholars will be as successful as the first batch in the pursuit of their dreams to become future marine engineers of the Abojeb fleet. Abojeb and the Aboitiz Foundation will always be there to support them,” said Captain Vidal.The new scholars are presently enrolled

at the UC-LM, recognized as one of the country’s top maritime institutions. Un-der the program, Abojeb-JMI, in partner-ship with the Aboitiz Foundation, will take care of the beneficiaries’ tuition fees, medical needs, training costs and other academic needs.

Abojeb introduces 2009 batch of Marine Engineering scholars

Philippine Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile recently urged Congress to pass measures that will promote the welfare and

provide protection to Filipino seafarers, whom the world hails as among the very best in the world.

Jebsens Maritime, Inc. (JMI), the crewing arm of Aboitiz Jebsen (Abojeb), together with the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.

announced on July 20 their 2009 line-up of Marine Engineering (MarE) scholars. The awarding of eight new scholars and the contract signing with the benefactors and the scholars‘ parents were held at the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu Mandaue Campus (UC-LM).

Marine Engineering scholars with parents and benefactors.

“The support that Abojeb and the Aboitiz Foundation to the scholars is of great value to UC-LM, and to UC as a whole. If the students will continue to study and work hard, they will have a brighter future af-ter college, and inspire more prospective enrollees to take up MarE,” said UC LM-Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA) Coordinator Judith Almonte. The Abojeb-Aboitiz Foundation scholar-

ship support Aboitiz Group’s vision to help the youth have access to better education and employment opportunities.

Aboitiz Jebsen is a 26-year-old joint ven-ture between the Aboitiz Group of the Philippines and the Jebsens Group of Nor-way. The venture is an international pro-vider of crewing, ship management and total transport solutions and services. Its crewing arm Jebsens Maritime, Inc. (JMI) has a pool of close to 8,000 highly quali-fied seafarers and supplies crew to nearly 400 vessels of varied types. JMI has con-sistently received recognition from the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA). ■

Senate president urges congress to passseafarers’ welfare, protection

During a speaking engagement before the graduates of the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) at Kamaya Point, Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan, the senator stressed the need for pro-seafarer initiatives. He also called on the govern-ment to also promote and revitalize the domestic shipping industry so that local Filipino seafarers will also “have equally rewarding employment opportunities within our very shores.”Enrile said “a seafarer’s life is not a pic-

nic or a walk in the park. It has been said, time and again, that a seafarer has one foot in the ship and the other foot in the grave because of the dangers and risks that they face every day in their workplace.”“The risks to their health and security

are numerously plenty and cannot be ad-equately compensated by the income that they earn. I am saddened by the plight of seafarers who are working in hazard-ous conditions and are being exploited by their employers, and duped by their recruiters.” Meanwhile, the senator commended the

foreign shipowners’ substantial contribu-tion to the trainings of Filipino seafarers through the MAAP. He said the assistance coming from these principals supports the value and competence of our seafarers.

“It also affirms their faith in the Filipino seafarers’ dedication, work ethic, and ca-pability to man their ships and handle all tasks that will be assigned to them.”He also commended the officers and

members of the Associated Marine Of-ficers and Seaman's Union of the Philip-pines (AMOSUP), led by Capt. Gregorio Oca, and the MAAP leadership, headed by Vice Admiral Eduardo Ma. R. Santos, AFP (RET), for making the academy a Cradle of Destiny for these young men and women.“Today’s occasion serves as an affirma-

tion of MAAP's commitment and ability to meet such growing demand for Filipino seafarers. Indeed, this Academy promotes no less than excellence in maritime educa-tion and training, and is committed to the continuing employment of highly compe-tent deck officers and marine engineers who shall represent the best in seafaring all over the world,” Enrile declared.“We commend their matchless courage to

confront all the hazards and risks at their place of work and their determination to deliver the best results in all the tasks that are assigned to them. Most importantly, we would like to thank our seafarers for their contribution to the economy through their regular remittances,” the senator concluded. ■

Capt. Jess Martinez of newly-organized Society of Filipino Ship Captains, Inc., said he is willing to share his expertise

to related government agencies like the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and likewise to their colleagues in the domestic shipping.

By zenaida p. magnial

Capt Martinez aims to share expertise

“My training center is always open to those who are willing to learn the compe-tency required especially on the inspec-tion and stability of vessels and what to do technically when caught in that situation. I can practically design a course for that at a very minimal fee,” he said.According to him, while his training cen-

ter has the lowest safety training fee in the market, he can even give a special rate for that purpose.“This is not about doing business, but

rather to contribute to the safety and well-being of our Captains in the domestic shipping. This is more than just transfer of knowledge. This is more on giving good image for our inter-island trade, and our country in general,” he assured. Capt. Martinez, who was also present

during the recent maritime forum with

the PCG recently, have long realized the importance of sharing the expertise of seasoned international master mariners to their domestic counterparts in pursuit of their profession.“I have been in consistent talks with

the PCG and if they will be willing, of course, I am more than willing. But then again, the problem would be budget,” said Martinez, who is also a director of the Masters and Mates Association of the Philippines, Inc.Nonetheless, the good captain is calling

on both the government and domestic shipping agencies to realize the need to train or refresh the competency of these professionals, which is mandated in the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping, and International Safety Management codes. ■

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The Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) recently signed a joint-venture pact with the Society of Naval

Architects and Marine Engineers (Soname) at the College of Business Building boardroom, AIMS Business Center, Pasay City.

According to Dr. Felicito P. Dalaquete, AIMS Vice President for Academic Af-fairs, the primary objective of the agree-ment is to fine tune the maritime school’s academic program relevant to the industry requirements. Under the agreement, AIMS will offer

the Bachelor’s Degree for Naval Architects and Marine Engineering or BS-NAME. Soname will provide the necessary sup-port for AIMS. According to Engr. Sammuel Lim,

Soname President, the presence of Hanjin and Tsuneishi Shipyards in the Philippines makes the country the fourth largest ship-building nation in the world. Hence, both Engr. Lim and Dr. Dalaguete saw the need to professionalize and institutionalize the ship design, ship building and repair sec-tors in the country.Both leaders also confirmed the demand

for naval architects. “We have three big shipyards in the country and yet, we don’t have enough naval architects,” said Da-laguete. “Naval Architects are so minimal. As

per records of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), there are only 500 plus registered Naval Architects. We want to sustain the profession by collaborat-ing with schools like AIMS who have the

knowledge and skills to offer the course,” said Engr. Lim.Specialized software such as the Maxsurf™

and ShipConstructor™ software will be introduced to the students. The two com-puter programs are being used and taught to students all over the world. Soname will provide the necessary expertise for the students, faculty and professionals.Lim revealed that during his time,

changes in plans or designs were costly and time-consuming. Now, with the aid of computers and software, naval architec-ture is made easy and fun.Lim also revealed that since 1989, the

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has not made any revision in the Naval Ar-chitecture curriculum.Soname also vowed to support AIMS

through its networks. They will help pro-vide good and quality instructors. They will also offer short courses in the near fu-ture as part of its Continuing Professional Education. Lim also vowed that the naval architects will soon have a representation in the PRC. As of this writing, Lim said there is now a proposal for NAME board examiners. Schedule of board exam for NAME is on October 6-8, 2009. Annual membership meeting would be on Octo-ber 16. ■

The first ship to circumnavigate the world is the Victoria piloted by Juan Sebastián Elcano. The Victoria was part of a five-ship expedition led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

The Victoria sailed from 1519 to 1522.

Did YOU know that?

4 September – October 2009 www.haRBORScOpe.com mate check

MATEcheckMATEcheck

With its most recent motivational activ-ity dubbed as Sincere, Motivated, Advo-cate and Responsible Team player of PTC (SMART), FCSD aims to help and motivate each member to participate and become a part of every objective they need to take.Last July 25, FCSD conducted an activ-

ity under its SMART program focusing on health and wellness and effective financial

planning with Ms. Myra Rose H. Menor as resource person. Menor taught the partici-pants the basics of organic juice business as well as how to prepare organic juices and fruit jams.During the program also, Ms. Normie

Hernandez, FCSD head addressed fre-quently asked questions on allotments, SSS and Philhealth concerns to those who

where still not equipped with knowledge about their benefits. On the other hand, PTC-FCSD recently

partnered with SMART Link 2009 in their program entitled LOVE KO SI MISIS Super Mom Caravan. The whole program cov-ers issues relevant for the wives of seafar-ers, such as financial matters, connecting to partners ashore, livelihood programs such as the SMART Livelihood program, SMART Eload, Nestle Negosyo Package, Meat processing, How to prevent Cervical Cancer, Beauty Talk and Anti Aging Tips, Make Over by EVER Bilena.

Speakers were Mr. Leo Quinitio of the Philippine Stock Exchange, Mr. Jake Ro-billo of Global Access SMART Link, Ms. Chichi Robles, SMART Livelihood Pro-gram, Ms. Rose De Castro from the Cor-porate Business Development of Nestle Phils., Ms. Racquel Leongson of Royal Link Livelihood Center (Meat Processing), Ma. Socorro C. Bernardino, MD Manila Doctors Hospital with a talk on Cervical Cancer, Mr. Paul Daniel Hipolito Beauty Talk and Anti Aging Tips by NU Skin, Ms. Analiza Abainza, Marketing Supervisor & Chief Make Up Artist Ever Bilena. ■

The Family and Crew Services Department (FCSD) of Philippine Transmarine Carrier (PTC) continues to soar

high in promoting wholesome programs and activities beneficial to seafarers’ families and crews.

Organized by the UK-based conference specialist, Lloyd’s List events, the confer-ence will carry the theme “Seeking Solu-tions in Partnership: An Industry Com-mitment to the Future of Manning and Training”. “The shipping industry’s no. 1 manpower event offers a dynamic pro-gramme that looks ahead to solutions and strategies to prepare crews for the ships of the future rather than re-packaging anal-yses of the current downturn,” Confer-ence Producer Kathryn Barnard pointed out. The conference will be chaired by John

Adams, managing director of Teekay

Marine Services, who will preside over presentations and panel discussions covering a broad range of topics. Topics include: “A retrospective of the Philip-pine manning industry as it prepares for the next wave of opportunities;” “Manpower supply: a strategic outlook;” “Recruitment and retention strategies;” “Review of industry regulations;” and “Pioneering recruitment and retention initiatives.”Remarking on last year’s event, L. Mar-

quard of HeavyLift Manila, Inc. described it as “an international, well organized event in the heart of the industry, the

Philippines”. The remark was echoed by M. Burley of V Ships who described the conference as “thought provoking and valuable content for change”. To meet the specialized needs of vari-

ous participants, delegates will for the first time be given the choice of attend-ing one of two topic streams on the sec-ond conference day. The first stream will tackle: “Effective Training: How to En-sure Competence Onboard”. The second stream will discuss: “Safe Manning: How to Ensure Sufficient and Efficient Man-ning”. The event will also feature two workshops. A pre-conference IFSMA (International Federation of Shipmasters’

Associations) workshop entitled “Does Fatigue and Criminalization have an Effect on Recruitment?” will be held on November 3 at the same venue. A post-conference workshop entitled “Assess-ment of Crew Competence” will be held on November 6.To celebrate the 10th anniversary of

the conference, a gala dinner featuring a three course meal, pre-dinner drinks and local entertainment will be held at the grounds of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza on the evening of November 4. “This will be an excellent way to network in relaxed surroundings and reflect on the days pro-ceedings,” Kathryn Barnard said. ■

The project is in connection with the 10th International Youth Day Celebration and Youth and Educators Summit for the Millennium Development Goals (YES 4 MDGs!) held August 5-7, 2009 at the Uni-versity of Makati Little Theater through the sponsorship of the City of Makati through the leadership of Mayor Jejomar C Binay. With the theme, “Sustainability: Our

Challenge, Our Future: Countdown to 2015,” the conference gathered 300 inter-national and local youth delegates from Asia Pacific Region and different parts of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Partici-pants include SK Federation Presidents, Student Council Presidents and commu-nity youth leaders. International speakers from UNDP, UNESCO, UNV, UNFPA and other local experts such as PAEPI Na-

tional President and Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific researcher Angelica Baylon, were also invited. The event culminated with the award-

ing of UN Outstanding Youth Leaders at the Malacañang Palace with Her Excel-lency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as guest of honor. Partners with WWFMeanwhile, Manila Ocean Park recently

forged partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) – a global con-servation organization. Its main objectives are to raise consciousness on three main issues namely, (1) the richness of Philip-pine marine biodiversity, (2) the interde-pendence of habitats and ecosystems in conservation, and (3) the major threats to destruction of ecosystems and species.

Manila Ocean Park works closely with WWF especially in collaboration on educational exhibits to showcase these important aspects of conservation. The partnership will carry out joint science re-search on the resilience of coral reefs to the threats of climate change, as well as con-duct empirical studies in captive breeding of threatened and endangered species with

the objective of releasing offspring into the wild.The collaboration’s educational and scien-

tific value will benefit the Philippine public and its precious marine resources – for the greater good of the nation. Manila Ocean Park is dedicated to promote awareness on the Philippine marine environment and the myriad of issues assailing it. ■

The Manila Ocean Park, the first state-of-the-art indoor oceanarium in the Philippines, in coordination with the

United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) through its youth arm, the United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines (UNYAP), recently sponsored a series of competitions aimed at enhancing awareness on Philippine marine biodiversity protection among youth leaders of today.

Manila Ocean Park promotes Marine Life education

MANILA – The Philippines, the world’s manning capital, will be hosting the 10th Anniversary Asia-Pacific

Manning and Training Conference. Considered the largest and most important manning conference in the world, the event will be held at the Hotel Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Manila on November 4 to 5. Participants can register on-line at www.manningandtraining.com or call +44(0)20 7017 5511 or fax +44 (0)20 7017 4745.

Manila to host 10th anniversary Asia Pacific Manning and Training Conference

PTC – FCSD: A second home where you are always first!

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The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PMMAAAI) proudly announces the

launch of its new official website www.pmmaaai.ph. The formal introduction of the website commenced recently at the PMMA Alumni Fellowship Night in Global City, Fort Bonifacio featuring the PMMAAAI 40th Founding Anniversary celebration.

Founded by Juan Miguel R. Bondoc and Jose Mariano R. Bondoc in October 2007, the Seamanship International

Training Academy Inc. (SITA) aims to become one of the Philippines' leading maritime training centers by focusing in providing world-class continuing education programs for maritime professionals and companies that operate in a global environment.

By Jun g. gaRciaAccording to Captain Reynold “Burt” Sa-bay, the alumni’s vice president for Inter-nal Affairs and chair for information and publication committee, the said website will serve as an effective vehicle to connect with other alumni for a strong, cohesive and united PMMAAAI. Everyone is in-vited to visit and use the new medium. He, however, advises everyone not to over-use, abuse or misuse the new channel of their communications.With these developments, the board of

directors for the year 2009-2010 under the leadership of Capt. Jaime D. Quiñones, are determined to see the realization of their vision and programs for all the alumni. Comment addressedMs. Mary Joyce Ann R. Sales, PMMA

Class 1999 aired her comment over the ar-ticle of this writer which appeared in the website dubbed “PMMA Alumni to build its own home.” The story was first pub-lished in the February – March 2009 edi-tion of Harborscope.In the article, Mr. Ramoncito “Chito”

Mendoza, was not properly introduced. He is a member of PMMA Class 1985 NM-3076. Mr. Mendoza, a former board member of the alumni, along with Capt.

Hernando Eusebio and Capt. Quiñones, exerted balanced effort in convincing Marlow Navigation Management to tem-porarily house the PMMAAAI in one of its vacant offices.Accordingly, Mr. Mendoza was rightfully

commended and appreciated for his con-tribution for the PMMAAAI courtesy of Capt. Quiñones during the simple blessing ceremony of the alumni office.Another error that the president would

like to correct is that the Association is only 40 years in existence to be exact and not 42. For 40 years, the alumni members had yearned for an established home for everyone. Again, the PMMA Alumni Cen-ter is envisioned to be the Association’s solid monument that demonstrates the PMMAAAI’s Professionalism, Unity, and Brotherhood!Hence, Capt. Quiñones and Capt. Sabay,

along with other directors and officers, are determined to complete what they have started in order to promote lasting friend-ship, cooperation, and solidarity among all members of the association, and leave a better legacy behind. ■

Seamanship International Training Academy

World-class education made accessible

Offering around 30 different courses and documentation services for seafarers cus-tomized to address the specific needs of its clients, SITA boasts of conducive learning facilities and competent instructors and guarantees speedy release of certificates.

By positioning itself as training center built for global coverage of training and competence management services in the maritime industry, SITA strikes the bal-ance between quality education and com-petitive price. By heselle B. garchitorena ■

(aBOVe) Officials of the asian institute of maritime Studies (aimS) and the Society of naval architects and marine engineers (Soname) sign a joint-venture pact to offer a Bachelor's degree in naval architecture and marine engineering (BS name).

(leFt) aimS Vp for academic affairs dr. Felicito p. dalaquete and Soname president engr. Sammuel lim sign the pact.

SeamanShip international training academy, inc.Room 513 BF Condominium Bldg., Andres Soriano Ave., cor. Solana St., Intramuros ManilaTel. Nos.: 525-1600 | 528-0546 | 710-7842 • Fax No.: 525-1600 loc. 109

Medical Care (MECA• Medical First Aid (MEFA)• Prevention of Alcohol & Drug Abuse in Maritime • Sector (PADAMS)Maritime Pollution Annex I (MP I)• Maritime Pollution Annex II (MP II)• Marine Pollution Annex VI (MP VI)• Dangerous, Hazardous & Harmful Cargoes • (HAZMAT)HAZMAT w/ CFR• Messmanship / Steward (MSM)• Shipboard Culinary• Housekeeping• Maritime Law for Ship’s Officer (MARLAW)•

Maritime English• Crude Oil Washing / Inert Gas System (COW/IGS)• Human Resource Applied to Ship Management• Risk Assessment• International Safety Management (ISM)• Ship Security Officer (SSO)• Ship Security Awareness (SSA)• Crowd & Crisis Management• Customer Service / Front Office Service• Shipboard Familiarization (O.J.T.) onboard Inter-• Island vesselApprenticeship for BSMT / BSMAR-E onboard • Inter-Island vessel

Reasons to enroll at SITACompetent Instructors • Conducive learning facilities •Expedite release of Training Certificate • Never compromised quality of learning to price

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There was no fanfare when the 1,300-ton Colombian training ship ARC Gloria visited Manila one August

weekend. Visitors were also thwarted by sporadic heavy rains. But for those who braved downpours and gusts to see the 41-year-old ship from July 30 to August 2 at the Manila South Harbor’s Pier 13, it was worth it.

By capt. leO miRande

flEETStReet

Hong Kong – Asia’s number one in cargo and container hub, and one of the world’s leading maritime centers, will again

play host to the third part of the China Maritime 2010 on March 16-18 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.

UFS Seeks Scrutiny of MARINA–Cebu for Registering Vessels Carrying Firearms

HK hosts China Maritime 2010

Next year’s event promises to be bigger and better with innovative conferences and seminars full of invaluable informa-tion for all stakeholders of the industry. The event will allow visitors and exhibitors to either form new alliances or renew old acquaintances.China maritime will cover the current

state of the market and its uncertainties to both the shipping and work boat sectors. The global financial crisis may have rever-

berated around the world bringing abrupt end to shipping boom, but more opportu-nities are still available as over 3,000 top

quality visitors from some 40 nations are expected to put a show next year.China Maritime 2010’s Asian Shipping

Summit will navigate aspects of the shak-en industry from funding and financial is-sues; to the recycling of excess vessels; to the push towards ever-more environmen-tally sustainable options for fuelling and shaping ships. For more information on China Mari-

time 2010, contact Kishore Navani of Baird Events, PH: +61 3 9645 0411, FX: +61 3 9645 0475, or email: marinfo@baird.com.au, Web: www.bairdmaritime.com. ■

Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor at night.

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ARC Gloria shows relevance of wind

The Gloria’s elegant interior and exte-rior were not only sights to behold. Its hybrid power source – sails and a 1,300-hp diesel engine, in combination with high-tech navigational instruments set on a steel hull marvelously balanced modernity and sophistication with tra-dition and respect for the environment.The language barrier was more than

compensated for by the salutes and wel-come gestures shown by the 142-strong Spanish crew to curious visitors who stepped on board and snaked inside the labyrinthine, cramped and dark spaces of the 76-meter-long brig in a reenact-ment of sort of shipboard life in the Age of Exploration.The plaques, medals and other displays

gathered from 70 countries the ship had visited silently tells the ship’s storied past and enduring voyages spanning 700,000 miles or 30 circumnavigations to date. And for every port docked, the Gloria’s sailing ambassadors shared the beauti-ful cultural side of the South American country that was once notorious for its violent cocaine cartels.

While modern machines and instru-ments reign supreme in honing the na-val skills of 72 cadets, the Gloria’s four masts are the true workhorses when it comes to propelling the ship. In fact, the Gloria is faster when sails are raised speeding at 13 knots. The die-sel engine can only manage 10 knots maximum.By harnessing the power of the oceanic

trade winds that once brought Colum-bus to the New World and opened the westward route to Asia for Magellan, the ARC Gloria is demonstrating the rel-evance of wind power to today’s interna-tional shipping.Perhaps, it may not even by farfetched

for today’s merchant fleet to return to the sail mode not only to save on fuel but also to lessen the industry’s carbon footprints. Can you just imagine how cleaner the air above shipping lanes and harbors would be if container ships and tankers are all ARC Gloria-like?Well, the Gloria has done it and is still

doing it. It would be a good start that there is a model to follow. ■

The United Filipino Seafarers (UFS) is pushing for a more extensive investigation on how one cargo vessel and a

pleasure yacht, which was recently apprehended and discovered by elements of the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Coast Guard to be illegally carrying large caches of high-caliber weapons, got registered with the Maritime Industry Authority Cebu Regional Office (MARINA–Cebu) under fictitious owners.Last Friday, August 21, 2009 MV Captain

UFUK and its Turkish crew were appre-hended by the combined teams of the Bu-reau of Customs, Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National Police – Bataan while anchored off Mariveles when they discovered some 14 caches of high-caliber weapons in its cargo holds.One of the weapons caches onboard MV

Captain UFUK was already emptied at the time of the arrest and witnesses in the area cited seeing a yacht berthing beside the vessel before authorities came swooping down hours later.Yesterday morning, August 27, 2009, a

team from the PCG Southern Tagalog District, after getting a tip from a local in-former, found the subject yacht anchored off Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.The Coast Guard team, under the direc-

tive from Commo. Cecil Chen has boarded the yacht and subsequently investigated all its crew including a Briton, which was re-portedly the original captain of MV Cap-tain UFUK, which brought the vessel from Turkey to Mariveles, Bataan.It was later discovered that MV Captain

UFUK and the yacht were actually regis-tered as Philippine flag vessels with the MARINA–Cebu office under no known local ship owners. This has caught the at-tention of the UFS and its president Nelson P. Ramirez.“How can the MARINA–Cebu regional

office register those vessels under fictitious ship owners? Part of the vessel registration requirement is that the local shipowner should be known and they have documents and track records to show for it in the lo-cal maritime industry? Something must have been committed why such a nefarious thing happened,” Ramirez exclaimed.

“This scenario only validates our ear-lier suspicion that MARINA–Cebu is really doing something extraordinary, and surprisingly still draws the support of MARINA Administrator Ma. Elena Bautista,” the UFS president pointed out.“In 2007, there were 55 foreign vessel im-

portations made by local shipowners in the Philippines. Of this number, 43 were regis-tered with MARINA–Cebu notwithstand-ing that some of those vessels importers were not even based in Cebu or have their operations outside of the Visayas. We have also information that most of those vessel importations were underdeclared, causing substantial revenue losses to the Bureau of Customs and the government,” Ramirez cited.“If I remember it correctly, it was also

MARINA–Cebu which approved the al-teration of the MV Princess of the Stars from merely being a 19,000-GRT vessel when it arrived in the Philippines to be-coming a 23,000-GRT top-heavy passen-ger ship. We all know what happened to MV Princess of the Stars after getting bat-tered by the wrath of typhoon ‘Frank’ in June of last year. The common denomi-nator in these seeming high-profile mys-teries is MARINA–Cebu so an investi-gation on the manner how it approves vessel registration or alteration should really be closely looked into by proper authorities,” Ramirez stressed.“Government authorities should consider

looking deeper into the issue because the UFS is dead-sure that MARINA–Cebu really has the answers that they’re look-ing for to unravel the truths behind these seeming vessel mysteries in local waters,” Ramirez said. ■

7September – October 2009www.haRBORScOpe.comFleet StReet

flEETStReet

Consistent with the principals’ and crewing agencies’ commitment to ensure the health and well-being of its crew members, the conditions of seafarers are ascertained not only during

their tenure onboard, but also before they report for work.

By JeSteR tan

physicians diagnostic Services center

a trusted partner in Seafarers’ health

In the Philippines, one of the leading medical clinics has been a consistent and reliable health partner among many inter-national shipping firms. This is proof that the welfare of our seafarers can only be en-trusted to those who can provide excellent quality of service. Physicians Diagnostic Services Center

(PDSC), Inc. is a diagnostic clinic engaged in the health screening of workers for overseas deployment. It is one of the few clinics recognized and accredited by the Accreditation Committees of the Philip-pine Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Labor and Employ-ment (DOLE).Established in 1978, the clinic offers a

complete line of modern medical screen-ing facilities and is manned by experienced staff headed by a Fellow and Diplomate in Occupational and Industrial Medicine. It is officially retained by the Philippine Over-seas Employment Administration (POEA) to screen the health of government-hired applicants for overseas deployment. It is likewise retained by the Commission on Immigration and Deportation to screen the health of foreign investors and other foreigners seeking residency in the Philip-pines.

The clinic is among the country’s pioneer in health screening, with international rec-ognition and accreditation from 28 coun-tries and institutions. It has the proven track records and expertise to offer quality health screening and care.For the last thirty (30) years, the clinic has

been officially endorsed and contracted for the health screening of Filipinos overseas workers bound for the Asia-Pacific Region (Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, Korea and Papua New Guinea) and the Middle East (Bahrain, Dubai, Libya, Lebanon, Qatar, GCC and specially Saudi Arabia.)PDSC has also been accredited for the

health screening of recruited Filipino sea-farers by such institutions as the Norwegian Maritime Directorate, the Department of Transport and Communication of the United Kingdom, Maritime Coastguard Agency (UK), Japan Seaman’s Medical Af-fairs Corp. and the Embassy of Argentina, as well as by other European countries like the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Denmark and Sweden. The clinic is also recognized by the German, Panamanian and Liberian flag vessels.PDSC is located at the nine-storey Physi-

cians Tower along United Nations Avenue

in Ermita, Manila. Among its state-of-the-art equipment are x-ray, pulmonary func-tion test, ECG machine, treadmill and oth-ers imported from Japan and Hongkong. The clinic later acquired other exclusive laboratory equipment from multinational drug companies. And in order to serve more land- and

sea-based applicants all over the country, PDSC established branches in major cit-ies nationwide. At present, the clinic has branches in Iloilo, Cebu and Davao, with other cities also planned for its service ex-pansion.Recognizing that Filipino seafarers are

among the highly-skilled and preferred

crew by international shipping compa-nies, PDSC established exclusive facilities for them. The move did not only assure a smooth flow of operations but also gained approval from various manning agencies and their principals.And to keep up with the ever changing

needs and requirements of its clientele, PDSC was fully computerized in 1994. Through its computer network, result inquiries, data transmittal, certificate production, records storage and re-trieval were accomplished fast and more efficiently. More and more reputable agencies have preferred to send their ap-plicants to PDSC. ■

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Ascorbic acid was coined by Hungarians Joseph L Svirbely and Albert Szent-Györgyi in 1933. Scientists called it “ascorbic” due to its

anti-scorbutic action. Anti-scorbutic was a term used in the 18th and 19th centuries for food that prevent scurvy. From then on,

sailors took ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, against scurvy.

Did YOU know that?

SONORAY MEDICAL ENTERPRISES INC.Suite 10, 3rd Floor, Legaspi Towers 300

Roxas Blvd. cor. P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila, PhilippinesTel. Nos. 525-8149 • 523-2650 • Telefax: 522-3936

E-mail address: smei@pacific.net.ph

DEALER OF THE FOLLOWING MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES:

QUANTUM X-RAY MACHINE FROM U.S.A.1. ALPHATEK PROCESSOR FROM U.S.A.2. HONDA ULTRASOUND MACHINE FROM JAPAN3. CAREWELL ECG AND ULTRASOUND MACHINE FROM CHINA4. MEDEX ECG MACHINE FROM CHINA5. ALL KINDS OF MEDICAL PAPERS FROM ISRAEL6. ALL KINDS OF ECG CABLES FROM CHINA7. ALL KINDS OF ULTRASOUND PROBES FROM CHINA8.

8 September – October 2009 www.haRBORScOpe.com pORt Side

porTSideupdates from the Filipino Shipowners association

FSA ACCEPTS NEW MEMBERThe Association approved the applica-

tion for membership of Odfjell Philip-pines, Inc. during the meeting of the Board of Trustees last 7 July 2009 at the Manila Yacht Club. FSA Chairman Car-los C. Salinas and FSA President Dario R. Alampay presented the Certificate of Membership to Capt. Remigio S. Zamo-ra, the Odfjell Philippines representative. In the meantime, another applicant, CCI Marine Logistics, Inc. is waiting for the approval of its application by the Board of Trustees.FSA CHAIRMAN ELECTED ISF VICE-PRESIDENTFSA Chairman Carlos C. Salinas was

unanimously elected for the second time as Vice-President of the International Shipping Federation (ISF) during the ISF Meeting held in London, on 20 May 2009. Mr. Salinas will serve as ISF Vice-President for two years.MARINA ENSURES SECURITY IN DAVAO GULFThe Maritime Industry Authority (MA-

RINA) will tighten security measures for laid-up vessels in Malalag Bay in Davao as there are now 32 container vessels laid up in the said area.Marina said it made an integrated securi-

ty approach in the Gulf of Davao to attract more vessel operators to lay up vessels in the Philippines.Davao attracted ship operators due to the

area being typhoon-free.The Integrated Security Response Ac-

tion Plan (ISRAP) for laid-up vessels is ready for signing through a Memoran-dum of Understanding among the mari-time law enforcement agencies based in Davao such as the Philippine Navy, Of-fice of the Transportation Security, Phil-ippine National Police, PNP Maritime Command, the local government units, Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) agencies and the lay-up agents.

RP – US SIGN ANTI-PIRACY TRAINING AGREEMENTThe Philippines forged a MOU with the

United States on the cooperation in mari-time counter-piracy training and educa-tion.The MOU was signed between Foreign

Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo on be-half of the Philippines and American Transportation and Communications Sec-retary Ray La Hood in simple ceremonies at Intercontinental Hotel in Washington.The MOU seeks to address the problem of

international piracy especially in the Gulf of Aden with the Somali pirates being a very serious cause of concern. FSA PRESIDENT SEEKS SUPPORT FOR RP-FLAG SHIPSFSA President Dario R. Alampay revived

calls to the government to allow the trans-port of its foreign trade via Philippine-flag vessels to help them cushion the impact of the crisis.Filipino Shipowners Association (FSA)

has been clamoring that government sup-port their long standing bid to take part in the carriage of bulk imports such as rice and coal.This will provide the opportunity to grow

their business if they are given priority in the shipment of bulk commodities being imported by state-run agencies.FSA is looking at cornering at least half of

the 85 percent of the government’s foreign trade which are being carried by foreign shipping lines.The National Food Authority (NFA) for

instance imports about 1.5 million metric tons of rice per year while private sector may also import rice of up to 300,000 met-ric tons.RP LIAISON TO GULF ANTI PIRACY TASK FORCE APPOINTEDThe Government has appointed a Phil-

ippine Navy officer to the multinational task force conducting maritime security and anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden.

However, the identity of the officer has yet to be disclosed until his actual deployment in Manama, Bahrain where he will work with the Anti-Piracy Task Force under the United States 7th Fleet.The assignment of the naval attache’ also

aims to establish a command that will pro-vide guidance and safety instructions to vessels with Filipino crewmembers, pass-ing the danger zone of the Gulf of Aden.There are still 46 Filipino seamen held

hostage on board hijacked ships in Soma-lia and efforts to secure the safe and early release are still ongoing.PORT FEES REGULATOR SOUGHTExport associations have thrown their

support to a proposal to get Malacañang’s approval of an executive order assigning a government agency to scrutinize and reg-ulate unreasonable port charges collected by international shipping lines.The support was expressed during a re-

cent meeting of the Philexport board where the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), one of the agencies on the board, traced costly port charges in the Philippines to interna-tional shipping lines.AMOSUP REFRAINS FROM SEEKING WAGE INCREASEAMOSUP President, Capt. Gregorio Oca

said recently that the Union will not ask for an increase in behalf of its members dur-ing their collective bargaining agreement (CBA) talks with ship-owning employers

in September, but it will lobby for the re-tention of jobs even in times of crisis.He said that his group cannot ask for an

increase at a time when the global shipping industry is also facing a crisis.“We just want our seafarers to keep their

jobs; what we’re after here now is for their security of employment.”He said, however, that his group will not

accept an earlier proposal by the employ-ers for a decrease in wages by about 10 per-cent to 15 percent.RP TO INCREASE COAL IMPORTS THROUGH 2010-14The Philippines, according to govern-

ment sources, will need to import at least 500,000 tons more of coal inputs each year up to 2014 as new coal-fired power plants become operational.The Department of Energy (DOE) said

that power generation eats up at least 75% of such imports with cement companies and industrial groups using the remainder. Coal imports are secured from Indonesia, China, Vietnam and Australia.TWO PORTS TO JOIN BIMP-EAGAThe Ports of Mati (Davao) and Brooke’s

Point (Palawan) are set to join the BIMP-EAGA in order to simplify their opera-tions.Ports in the BIMP-EAGA work together

under lower tariffs as agreed by their re-spective port authorities to boost shipping in the region. ■

MALAYSIAN TUG FREED BY PIRATESThe Malaysian press has reported that

the Malaysian tug, Masindra 7, together with its tow– the Indonesian barge AOMI was released by Somali pirates on Sunday, 2 August 2009 together with its 11 man crew.The tug was hijacked last 16 December

2008 while on a return trip to Malaysia after completion of a contract job in the Middle East. It is believed that ransom was paid for the release of the tug.EU PLANS SOMALI COAST SECURITY FORCEThe European Union announced that

it plans to train Somali security forces to tackle the pirates operating along the country's coast. The BBC reports that the EU will send a planning team to the region next month. Training is to take place in neighbouring Djibouti, which has French and US military bases.

The move fits in with calls from Somalia's Transitional Government that training its forces is the best way to defeat the pirates. It has already started to form a coastguard though Anderimar Shipping News under-stands that it is currently far from being an effective, deployable force.GUILTY PLEA IN RECORD BOOK OFFENSEThe United States Department of Jus-

tice has announced that the Greek chief engineer of the Dominican-flagged bulk carrier Theotokos has pleaded guilty to violating environmental laws designed to prevent pollution from ships and making false statements to the US Coast Guard, the United States Justice Department has announced. Georgios Stamou pleaded guilty to one

felony violation of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and one felony violation for making a false statement. Stamou is the third crew member to

plead guilty to crimes related to pollu-tion from Theotokos while on the high seas. The master, Panagiotis Lekkas, and the second engineer Charles Posas, both pleaded guilty to multiple felony counts on July 15, 2009. The case arose from attempts to conceal

from the U.S. Coast Guard major prob-lems involving oil leaking into a ballast tank and a leak from a ballast tank into the sea.PIRATE ATTACKS INCREASE WORLDWIDEThe International Maritime Bureau (IMB)

has reported that piracy attacks around the world more than doubled to 240 from 114 during the first six months of the year compared with the same period in 2008.The rise in overall numbers is due almost

entirely to increased Somali pirate activity off the Gulf of Aden and east coast of So-malia, with 86 and 44 incidents reported respectively.

The year’s second quarter saw 136 reports of piracy compared with 104 in the first three months of 2009, an increase of al-most a third. IMO GUIDANCE ON PIRACYThe Maritime Safety Committee (MSC)

of the International Maritime Organiza-tion (IMO) has approved a revised Guid-ance to Shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crew for preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed rob-bery against ships.VENEZUELA INCLUDED IN WAR RISK AREAThe Joint War Committee (JWC) has

added Venezuela (including all offshore installations in the Venezuela EE 2) in its list of war risk areas. ■

OVERSEAS NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

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Your adsHERE

Call +632 484 8685

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has reported that piracy attacks around

the world more than doubled to 240 during

the first six months.

9September – October 2009www.haRBORScOpe.compORt Side

porTSide

PPA General Manager Atty. Oscar M. Sevilla said that the PPA has selected the vessel entrance and clearance process at the Port of Batangas to be certified first after which the process is hoped to be rep-licated in other major ports. The state-owned corporation recently

conducted the symbolic launching of the PPA ISO Quality Management System (QMS) on vessel entrance and clearance at the Port of Batangas. The ISO QMS certifi-cation is being pursued by PPA in line with the objective of the Department of Trans-portation and Communication (DOTC) Project on the Development of QMS for DOTC cluster Agencies and in compliance with the requirements of Executive Order 605 which directs all departments and agencies of the Executive Branch to estab-lish and adopt the ISO-certified QMS.During its symbolic launching, PPA AGM

Atty. Gloria Bañas said that the launching of the PPA ISO QMS is a fitting realization

of the Port Agency’s vision to catapult the major ports of the country towards becom-ing world-class. “Expectedly, this event now marks PPA’s initial journey towards ISO certification,” AGM Bañas added.Lilian Javier, PPA port operations ser-

vices department manager said that the DOTC Project on QMS also aims to pro-vide the required training to enable agen-cies to gain expertise on the ISO-QMS Standards. Cascading of the trainings and replication of the initial ISO-QMS process to other ports nationwide and/or expan-sion to other processes are left to the Port Agency to work on.The PPA targets to start the implementa-

tion at the Port of Batangas this mid Au-gust and to start working on its replication in Davao and General Santos before the year ends. “We plan to continue the same for the ports of Cagayan de Oro, Zam-boanga and Iloilo by next year,” Ms. Javier added. ■

For press releases and coverage, call

+632 484 8685

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is working on an ISO certification to standardize some of the operational

functions in some of its major ports nationwide.

ppa works on iSO certification

Museum opens at PPAThe Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), a government-

controlled corporation attached to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) inaugurated the PPA Museum last July 9, 2009 in celebration of its 35th Anniversary.Secretary Leandro R. Mendoza of the De-

partment of Transportation and Commu-nications (DOTC) is the Keynote Speaker on the occasion.The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)

Museum is a realization of the PPA com-munity’s dream of showcasing the contri-bution of the ports to the country’s cultur-al heritage and the economy. The museum aims to collect, preserve and protect mate-rials that depict the history of the Philip-pine ports, their past and present develop-ments that will inspire an appreciation for its knowledge. The museum is a continu-ing project such that contributions or do-nations in the form of artifacts, memora-bilia and other items that will augment the present collection and aid in the expansion and improvement of the museum will be appreciated.For its initial offering, the museum will

present the ports of Manila consisting of the North and South Harbors, and the Manila International Container Termi-nal (MICT).

The history of the ports which depicts the pre-colonial period, Spanish period (16th century to 1898), American Rule (1902-1946), the Second World War (1941-1946), Post War rehabilitation and expansion (1946-1999) up to the creation of the Philippine Ports Authority will be featured. It includes photos of the old ports of Manila, dioramas on the old and present pier setting, vessels and cargo handling equipment used in the ports. A number of artifacts loaned by port users will also be on display. Henceforth, other major Philippine ports will be feature in the museum.The PPA Museum is located at the 7th

Floor of the PPA Head Office Building, A. Bonifacio Drive, South Harbor, Port Area, Manila. ■

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC) for the Public Bidding for the De-velopment, Management, Operation and Maintenance of the Manila North Harbor conducted the Opening of Bids last 20 August 2009. The submitted bid propos-als of the lone eligible bidder, Harbour Centre Port Terminals, Inc. (HCPTI) and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC)

Joint Venture which passed the prelimi-nary examination of bids is still subject to bid evaluation and post qualification to be conducted by the Technical Working Group of the SBAC within a 15-day pe-riod from the opening of bids.The Modernization of the Manila

North Harbor (MNH) shall ensure the development of modern port terminal facilities and the provision of state-of-

the-art equipment which is expected to result in more efficient port services which will redound to the benefit of the port users and the general public as well. The MNH, as privatized will only cater to domestic cargoes and will not com-pete with the ICTSI and ATI, Terminal Operators of MICT and South Harbor, respectively, in the handling of foreign cargoes. ■

UPDATES ON THE PPA NORTH HARBOR

MODERNIZATION PROJECT

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The PPA Museum is a realization of its’ dream of showcasing the contribution of the ports

to the country’s cultural heritage and the economy.

10 September – October 2009 www.haRBORScOpe.com StaR BOaRd

diSplay ad teRmS and cOnditiOnSthe publisher reserves the right to approve all advertising materials and to cancel any advertising contract for any reason. the position of an advertisement is not guaranteed unless previously arranged in writing. lay-outing, typesetting, and color separation of an advertisement are the responsibility of the advertiser but the latter may engage the service of harborscope to do such task and shoulder the corresponding cost. Officers and staff of harborscope shall not be responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the advertisement. errors in an advertisement must be informed within five working days from receipt of a copy of an issue. all accounts are due immediately after publication and payable upon presentation of bill. Other terms and conditions, if any, must be attached to this contract.

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sTArBOaRdYour ads

HERECall +632 484 8685

WIMAPHIL–NCR in actionthe ncR chapter of Wimaphil successfully held

an health awareness activity among residents of Brgy. Rizal, pembo, city of makati last September 12, 2009.

despite the rain, 10 Wimaphil-ncR members helped in the activity by facilitating group activities, distributing health kits, and giving away snacks among participants. ■

Harborscope now has international audience, be it print or web. My part-ner, Zenaida P. Magnial is a living tes-timony to the success of this humble yet noble publication. Ms. Magnial has been a frequent flyer recently re-ceiving invitations here and abroad, making representations left and right. It was indeed, a good sign that Har-borscope is beginning to carve a name for itself.One of the most recent is when she

was invited to present an award in the prestigious Frost and Sullivan’s Asia Pacific’s Top Transportation & Logis-tics Companies held in Singapore. It was an experience she herself could not believe will happen in less than two years. This is quite an achieve-ment for the company.

Moreover, an exciting development will now happen in Harborscope. Yours truly will be replaced by some-one obviously better and qualified to become managing editor. Yours truly, being the founding director of Har-borscope, decided to relinquish his position so that this noble concept will continue to move forward and outlive us all.With this, I am grateful for my

partners for giving me this last op-portunity to formally bid farewell to all of you and to thank you for all the support given. We started in Harborscope as friends, and we will definitely part as friends. I fervently hope that you will continue to sup-port what we have started without yours truly around.

Harborscope, in principle, will con-tinue to serve the industry and will endeavor to bring you only the best developmental stories. It will contin-ue to promote and empower the best interest of maritime entrepreneurs and live up to your expectations as a publication you can depend upon.Again, thank you for the support. I

am sorry that I have to let go. Rest as-sured that this decision is for the good of everyone. There is a time and place for everything. And now is the time for Harborscope to further shine.Cheers!

* * *Harborscope has gone a long way

to reach its goal. On July 23, 2009 at the Grand Ballroom of the Intercon-tinental Hotel in Singapore, Harbor-

scope Executive Director Ms. Zenaida P. Magnial was invited to present an award at the Forst & Sullivan’s recog-nition on Asia Pacific’s Top Transpor-tation & Logistics Companies.The event was also supported by the

Singapore Economic Development Board, Singapore. Media partners for the awards include Logistics Insight Asia, Business Today, Harborscope and Logistics Digest.The participation of Ms. Magnial in

the said event is a manifestation that Harborscope indeed has an interna-tional presence.

Harborscope is a bi-monthly publication of Harborscope, Inc. with

editorial and business offices at room 502 FeMII building, andres soriano street,

Intramuros, Manila. Please address all correspondence to harborscope@

yahoo.com. Our telephone numbers are (+632) 484–8685 and (+632) 400–4767.

Advertising materials can be sent toharborscope.mktg@yahoo.comand harborscope@gmail.com.

HARBORSCOPE, Inc.publisher

WILTON M. VENUSpresident

ZENAIDA P. MAGNIALexecutive directorCOPYRIGHT © 2009. HARBORSCOPE, INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Empowering Maritime Entrepreneurs

JUN G. GARCIAmanaging editor

RONALD B. ESCANLARcreative director | Webmaster

HESELLE B. GARCHITORENAeditorial assistant

MR. JUn G. GaRciaFounder and Managing EditorHarborscope

editorial

JOYCE FAYE M. PADOLINAFinance Officer

JEROME P. MAGNIALPAUL RICHARD A. EVITE

GREGORIO E. FERRER, JR.circulation assistants

Come September 2009, Harborscope will be two years old. It was remarkably promising for this fledgling publication to see the realization of its dream.

A time for everything

11april 2009–may 2009www.haRBORScOpe.comStaR BOaRd

EDITORialYour ads

HERECall +632 484 8685

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) recently cited Capt. Simeon B. Balita as the 2009 Outstanding Professional

Awards for Marine Deck Officers profession.

PRC hails Capt. Simeon Balita as 2009 Outstanding Professional

He was hailed for his unselfish contribu-tion and valuable dedication in the coun-try and in the maritime industry.Capt. Balita has served the Philippine

Navy for 20 years before joining the ranks of Overseas Filipino Workers as Marine Superintendent and Staff Captain of MV Saudi Pilipinas I in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. After completing his two-year contract, he returned to our country to serve the maritime sector.Subsequently, he was given an assign-

ment as Harbor Pilot in Batangas Port un-der the supervision of the Philippine Ports Authority. From 1982 to 2006, Capt. Balita consistently exhibited professional compe-tence, unselfish dedication and integrity. He was then promoted as Chief Pilot and maintained his position for nearly a de-cade.Consequently in 1998, he was appointed

Member of the Board for Marine Deck Of-ficers of the Professional Regulation Com-mission by then Philippine President Jo-seph E. Estrada. Having served for a year, Capt. Balita has supported numerous plans and programs of the Board and of the PRC for its constituents. It was during his time when unscrupulous

seafarers holding fake training certificates

were apprehended and referred to the legal department of PRC. It eventually became an eye-opener to the lawmakers, the in-dustry stakeholders, and the government agencies regulating the maritime sector, including the flag-states authorities, to conduct comprehensive investigation and screening on the authenticity of the train-ing certificates of the seafarers. With the concerted efforts of the indus-

try, plus the valuable contributions of Capt. Balita and other board members as well, the Philippines was able to regain its integrity as the supplier of competent seafarers which was almost compromised by the proliferation the fraudulent certifi-cates.It was also during his stint when the

Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) 1978 was reviewed and revised to what is now STCW ’95. It then led to the stringent production of qualified seafarers in the Philippines, as well as in other parts of the maritime world.It was also during his term in PRC

when the review and drafting of the new system and the questionnaire for the li-censure examination was implemented as per the Republic Act 8544. His dedica-

tion to ensure best practices in the board further boosted the country’s integrity in the production of marine deck and engine officers as well.Capt. Balita was also appointed as mem-

ber of the Board for Marine Inquiry (BMI) by the Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard for three years since July 1, 2005 and as Panel of Examiner for Harbor Pilot by the then Administrator of MA-RINA in February 2006. His devotion to duty and professional competence resulted in the speedy resolutions of maritime cases in the BMI. He placed third in the Harbor Pilot Ex-

amination in 1979 among 25 other ex-aminees. He has been a recipient of many meritorious awards and plaques of com-mendation for his services both in the gov-ernment and private sectors. No wonder, he was a topnotcher at the then Philippine Nautical School in 1958 and a consistent honor student since his primary and sec-ondary education.

In addition, Capt. Balita has also served as maritime assessor at the National As-sessment Center of the Maritime Train-ing Council, Competency Assessor at the Technical Education and Skill Develop-ment Authority (TESDA) and CHED As-sessor for Maritime Education, where he all served with distinction and efficiency. He also served as Director of the Masters and Mates Association of the Philippines, Inc. (MMAP).His involvement in the private sector as

president of the Philgrescan Corporation, dean of Modern Maritime School and director for Global Training System, Inc. further honed his skills and leadership before assuming a seat in the government offices.Moreover, Capt. Balita has left a good leg-

acy of service and professionalism in the merchant marine profession and has aptly demonstrated competence and unselfish dedication and integrity in the service of the Filipino people. ■

With the concerted efforts of the industry, plus the valuable contributions of Capt. Balita and other

board members as well, the Philippines was able to regain its integrity as the supplier of competent

seafarers which was almost compromised by the proliferation the fraudulent certificates.

For press releases and coverage, call

+632 484 8685

Empowering Maritime Entrepreneurs

MAIN OFFICE6/F NEDA Building, 106 Amorsolo St.Legaspi Village, Makati CityTel Nos: (02) 817-0971 to 75Fax No: (02) 894-2802E-mail: elburg@elburgshipmanagement.com.ph

CEBU OFFICERoom 407Colon Development Corporation BuildingOsmena Boulevard, Cebu CityTelefax: (032) 238-7236

CREWTECH SHIPMANAGEMENT PHILS., INC.

ELBURG SHIPMANAGEMENT PHILS. INC.

WE ARE IN NEED OF CREW FOR THE FOLLOWING TYPE OF VESSELS

OFFICERS: 25 MASTER • 25 CHIEF OFFICERS • 25 CHIEF ENGINEERS • 25 SECOND OFFICERS

25 ELECTRICIANS • 25 SECOND ENGINEERS • 25 THIRD OFFICERS • 25 THIRD ENGINEERS.

RATINGS: SEVENTY FIVE (75)

LPG (Registered in Italy) • PRODUCT TANKERS (Registered in Marshall Island) • BULK CARRIER

(Registered in Marshall Islands,Malta, Cyprus & United Arab Emirates) • GENERAL CARGO (Registered

in Italy, Panama & Malta) • RORO(Registered in Italy) • ANCHOR HANDLING (Registered in Italy)

Board passers are welcome to apply with the possibility of promotion. Qualified officers with inter-island experience may also apply.For interested applicants, please submit in person your curriculum vitae,training certificates, and service records or call our office. You may look for

EVANGELINE RACHOPresident

ANGELITA S.A. ANCHETACrewing Manager

POEA License No. POEA–018–SB–031 705–R

5/F NEDA Building, 106 Amorsolo StreetLegaspi Village, Makati CityTel Nos: (02) 813-6216 / 812-9247 / 812-6836 / 893-7269E-mail: crewtech@crewtech.netWebsite: http://www.crewtech.net

WE ARE IN NEED OF CREW FOR THE FOLLOWING TYPE OF VESSELS:

OFFICERS: 20 masters • 20 chief officers • 20 chief engineers • second engineers • 20 electricians

• 20 second officers • 20 third engineers RATINGS: FIFTY (50)

LPG (Registered in Marshall Island) • PRODUCT TANKERS (Registered in Marshall Island) •

CHEMICAL TANKER (Registered in Italy,Malta & Marshall Island) • BULK CARRIER (Registered in

Italy,Malta,Cyprus & United Arab Emirates) • GENERAL CARGO (Registered in Italy, Panama & Malta)

Board passers are welcome to apply with the possibility of promotion. Qualified officers with inter-island experience may also apply.For interested applicants, please submit in person your curriculum vitae, training certificates, and service recordsor call our office. You may look for

MARY ANN S.A. CABALTEJAVice President/Operations Manager

POEA LICENSE NO 013-SB-103007-PL