📋 Tender Overview
TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) -- President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. got a firsthand look at the future of maritime training during his latest visit to the National Maritime Polytechnic, where he inspected government-acquired, a multi-million peso worth of marine simulators designed to elevate the skills and global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers. The state-of-the-art simulators covering bridge navigation, engine room operations, cargo handling, and emergency response are among the most advanced and were acquired through NMPs modernization program. The simulators replicate real-life maritime conditions, from congested international ports to violent storms and mechanical failures, allowing trainees to make critical decisions without real-world risk. In 2024, the state-run maritime training institution secured the P52- million simulators, while in 2025, it was allocated an additional P63 million for the procurement of specialized training equipment and facility improvements. NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario underscored that the prevailing challenge lies in addressing the critical gaps in training equipment and facilities necessary to develop and offer the remaining mandatory courses. The facility upgrade is in response to this challenge. NMP officials further said that the multi-million peso in upgrades align with the institutions international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The simulators also allow continuous skills upgrading for licensed officers, reinforcing the countrys reputation as a reliable provider of maritime manpower. Beyond the technology, the President took time to speak with students and trainers, listening to their experiences and aspirations. Trainee Gilbert Cabangisan of Leyte and Jon Jermaine Taboy of Samar, the new simulators represent more than modern equipment as they are a bridge between classroom learning and the unforgiving realities of the open sea. Malaki ang advantage na meron tayong ganitong pasilidad dito sa Region 8. Mas accessible at hindi mahal kasi nga gobyerno ang nagpapatakbo. Pero higit sa lahat, very competitive ang training dito kaya nga kilala ang Filipino seafarers pagdating sa maritime industry na professional at competent, Taboy said. The Presidents visit ended with a reaffirmation of his vow to support maritime education and invest in facilities that keep Filipino seafarers competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global industry. Now, NMP offers a total of 56 maritime training courses, both mandatory and non-mandatory. Of these, NMP has already developed 22 out of 40 Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses prescribed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where 21 are currently offered, with one additional course set to be opened upon accreditation by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). Established to provide advanced training for seafarers, NMP plays a critical role in sustaining the maritime sector, which contributes billions of dollars annually to the Philippine economy through remittances. (ACR/PIA Leyte)
