The IMMAJ-PJMCC Foundation, Inc. inaugurated the new Crude Oil Tanker Simulator (COTS) last 23 August 2018 in Magsaysay Training Center, Times Plaza Building, Ermita, Manila.

Present during the inauguration were Capt. Koichi Akamine, Chairman of IMMAJ; Capt. Teodoro B. Quijano, Vice President of PJMCC and the IMMAJ-PJMCC Foundation, Inc.; Dr. Conrado F. Oca, President of AMOSUP; Ms. Doris Magsaysay-Ho, President/CEO of A. Magsaysay, Inc.; and Mr. Alexander E. Querol, President of Magsaysay Learning Resources, Inc. (MLRI)

The newly acquired COTS replaced the single-hull very large crude oil carrier (VLCC) simulator purchased by the Foundation in 2003. The new equipment replicates the actual cargo control console of MT KIHO, a double-hull VLCC, and is equipped with functions necessary for safe cargo handling operations, ballasting and deballasting, crude oil washing, inert gas system, hazard identification and prevention, and cargo team management.

The inauguration program included special messages from IMMAJ, PJMCC, AMOSUP and Magsaysay heads, followed by the ribbon cutting ceremony and blessing of the simulator. There was also a coins-throwing tradition, believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

The new COTS was funded by the JSU-AMOSUP Training Levy Fund (JATF), which is derived from mandatory contributions made by Japanese ship owners for the upgrading of Filipino seafarers’ knowledge and skills. On behalf the Foundation, MLRI-Magsaysay Training Center will manage and utilize the new simulator to continue the delivery of the following tanker courses among IMMAJ-PJMCC officers and crew:

1.       Improved Crude Oil Tanker Cargo Handling Simulator Course

2.       Ballast Water Management Course

3.       Basic Training for Oil & Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations Course

4.       Advanced Training for Oil Tanker Cargo Operations Course.