The Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) celebrated the Graduation Ceremony for the First Batch of Class 2019 at the New Parade Grounds of the MAAP campus in Kamaya Point, Alas-Asin, Mariveles, Bataan on May 25, 2019.

Representing the first batch of graduates belonging to the Serezaeons Class of 2019, 134 midshipmen and women were honored in this year’s graduation rites.  58 were granted their bachelor’s degrees in Marine Transportation and 76 obtained their bachelor’s degrees in Marine Engineering from the distinguished institution.   Also given recognition were two graduates who were conferred with Masteral degrees in Marine Transportation and in Marine Engineering.

Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) President, Dr.  Conrado F. Oca welcomed the guests, dignitaries, the graduates and their families, the faculty and friends.  He rallied the graduates to do their best as they start their career at sea.  He reminded them that the school has prepared them well and that they should make MAAP proud.

MAAP President, VAdm. Eduardo Ma. R. Santos gave the declaration of graduates and conferment of degrees.  He then introduced the Guest-of-Honor and Commencement Speaker, Senator of the Philippines, Honorable Richard J. Gordon.

Senator Gordon congratulated the 134 midshipmen standing in front of him and reminded them that they are amidst the turning point in their lives.  “This is a game changer, for here today you get a diploma from one of the best maritime academies of the world.”

Senator Gordon highlighted the contributions of the seafarers to the Philippine economy and the world.  “You represent the best and the brightest of our country today.  In an industry that has enriched the country, and when I say enriched a country, you enriched its dignity.  You enrich not only the Pesos and Dollars that people ahead of you do for our country to the tune of about 19% of the remittances of the whole country which is about 3.6 Billion Dollars or roughly 355 Billion Pesos, but above all you are the advertising par excellence of the Filipino professional.  You advertise the country throughout the whole world.”

Senator Gordon, paid tribute to the people who have opened the door of opportunities to these midshipmen and women.  “Money didn’t buy you here.  That’s why I give special thanks to the Japanese, Norwegians, the Germans and the Danes.  They are the ones that paid for your education.  AMOSUP, the vision of a man by the name of Gregorio Oca, created this wonderful, very distinguished academy to give you an opportunity in life.”

The senator also reminded the graduates to find their role in Maritime industry and their role in the development of our country.  In closing the honorable senator challenged the graduates, “Today I congratulate all of you.  But I do want to task you this, be the great sailors and officers of maritime vessels in the world.   That must be your intention at all times. Remember who you are, define yourselves and make sure you enhance that definition.  As you grow day by day, follow the lead of the people here.  Always remember that you have your duties to your country and to your family at all times. And make sure as you go on with your lives you live a life of being men and women for others.”