The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through its Examination and Assessment Division (EAD) under the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Office, highlights World Maritime Day and National Maritime Week with an oath taking ceremony for Marine Deck and Engineer Officers on 26 September 2024, at the AMOSUP Convention Hall in Intramuros, Manila.

Marking the official start of their commitment to their duties, responsibilities, and obligations as merchant marine officers, a total of 77 marine deck and engineer officers were sworn into their official ranks. For the Deck Department, there were 45 oath takers comprising 10 Master Mariners, one (1) Chief Mate, and 34 Officers-In-Charge of a Navigational Watch (OIC-NW). As for the Engine Department, 32 maritime engineer officers consisting of six (6) Chief Engineer Officers, two (2) Second Engineer Officers, and 24 Officers-In-Charge of an Engineering Watch (OIC-EW) also took their oath.

In his welcoming remarks, STCW Office Executive Director Mr. Samuel L. Batalla noted that this moment marks the transition from the individuals’ seagoing experiences and practical knowledge to a leadership role within the shipping industry.

“Remember, no one knows your potential for growth better than you do. So, invest in the most important room in the world—the room for improvement,” Executive Director Batalla emphasized.

International Maritime Association of the Philippines (INTERMAP) and BEAMKO Shipmanagement Corp. President Capt. Juanito G. Salvatierra Jr also delivered his inspirational message, “Your commitment to safety, sustainability, and professionalism can inspire others. Be the officer who leads by example, who fosters teamwork, who respects the traditions and values of our profession.”

This quarterly oath taking ceremony is the Administration’s way of acknowledging and recognizing the beginning of a marine officer’s commitment to his or her obligations as an officer of the safety of life at sea and the marine environment.

This quarterly oath taking ceremony serves as the Administration’s acknowledgment and recognition of a marine officer’s commitment to upholding their responsibilities for the safety of life and property at sea, as well as the protection of the marine environment.

The oath taking was administered by Capt. Danilo G. Arevalo, Board of Marine Deck Officers (BOMDO) Chairman and Chief Engr. Reynaldo S. Rabino, Board of Marine Engineer Officers (BOMEO) Chairman.

View photos here