San Narciso, Zambales
July 20, 2023

“Whatever challenges you may face, be open to how you can live up to your class name: ‘Magigiting na may Dangal at Simbolo ng Kawal ng Karagatan!’ As you do so, help the Philippines maintain its name as a global figure in the maritime industry and an asset to the entire world,” urged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the 200th Commencement Exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) at the Grandstand of the PMMA Complex in San Narciso, Zambales.

The President encouraged the 224 graduating midshipmen of the PMMA Class of 2023 to continue with the same level of passion and resilience they demonstrated during their four-year tenure at the Academy. He urged them to apply the skills, training and values they acquired as they embark on their careers in the Navy, Coast Guard or the Merchant Marine Fleet.

As Commander-in-Chief, he appealed to all relevant agencies to closely coordinate with the PMMA and offer whatever assistance necessary to enhance the country’s maritime education. This, he explained, would make it more responsive to the nation’s needs and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

Furthermore, President Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude towards the private sector for their partnerships as these collaborations have bolstered the country’s capabilities as a maritime nation and promoted high quality maritime education and training that allowed the maritime industry to become more innovative, resilient and adaptable in an ever-changing world.

“Let the opportunity to make a change in our society propel you to excel further and to become the leaders that you were trained and meant to be,” he concluded.

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