TACLOBAN CITY — Strengthening the country's competitiveness in the international shipping industry, the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) is upgrading its maritime training programs and campus infrastructure to prepare Filipino seafarers for evolving global standards.
As the nation’s sole government-owned maritime training and research institution, NMP emphasized the necessity of modernizing its facilities as merchant vessels become increasingly technological and international regulatory frameworks tighten under the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).
“A vessel carries more than its crew. It carries the hopes of their families and the reputation of our country,” stated NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario, emphasizing the agency's commitment to equipping maritime professionals with world-class competencies.
Major Infrastructure Projects And Campus Upgrades
To support trainees, officers, and ratings, NMP is rolling out several multi-million peso facility developments across its Tacloban campus:
₱109.2 Million Ratings Dormitory: A modern two-story accommodation facility featuring 70 bedroom units (minimum 23 square meters each) equipped with private toilets and baths, air-conditioning, instant water heaters, study areas, and key-card access systems.
₱89.9 Million Officers’ Dormitory Rehabilitation: A comprehensive structural strengthening and modernization project delivering 73 renovated bedroom units with dedicated private amenities for trainees and guests.
₱32 Million STCW-Compliant Training Pool: Construction of a state-of-the-art 31x36-meter monolithic reinforced concrete pool with a uniform depth of 3.66 meters, fully compliant with international MARINA and STCW safety training standards.
₱3 Million TESDA Building & Solar-Lit Parking: A dedicated venue paired with a solar-powered parking area to alleviate campus congestion and enhance nighttime security.
₱7 Million Road Network & Drainage Rehabilitation: Infrastructure works aimed at improving campus accessibility and flood resilience.
Aligning With National Maritime Priorities
NMP officials highlighted that these capital investments directly support the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac to elevate the skill set and welfare of Filipino sea-based workers.
By bringing modern training equipment and comfortable residential facilities closer to maritime aspirants in Eastern Visayas and beyond, NMP aims to safeguard the global preference for Filipino seafarers while supporting the economic livelihoods of their families.
