President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored the 327 graduates of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) in Zambales, urging them to preserve the global reputation of Filipino seafarers as they begin their careers in the maritime industry.
Speaking during the commencement exercises of the PMMA SALIGHIRANG Class of 2026 at the PMMA Grandstand in Barangay Natividad, San Narciso, Zambales, Marcos reminded the graduates that they are about to embark on a new journey of service and responsibility.
“Together, you have identified yourselves as both the light that guides ships home and the pillar that your fellow Filipinos can rely on,” Marcos said.
The President told the graduates that while they may serve different organizations with various missions, they must continue to uphold the reputation of Filipino seafarers recognized worldwide for their skills and professionalism.
“Yet wherever your journey takes you, you will uphold the proud reputation of a Filipino seafarer,” he said.
Marcos also recognized the 21 graduates of the PMMA Graduate School, commending their dedication to continuous learning and professional development.
“You prove that the world never stops teaching us lessons, even after we fulfill many journeys at sea. Congratulations to all of you,” the President said.
With the theme “Sagisag ng Liwanag, Haligi ng Huwaran,” Marcos highlighted PMMA’s more than two-century history, tracing its beginnings from a small nautical school in Intramuros to its current role as a premier maritime institution.
“Like a lighthouse in the middle of a storm, the PMMA has stood for generations, guiding young Filipinos towards the sea and back home,” he said.
The President said the class name SALIGHIRANG represents the values expected from every PMMA graduate.
He explained that “Salig,” a Cebuano word meaning trust, symbolizes sagisag ng liwanag or a guiding light similar to a lighthouse, while “Hirang,” a Filipino term meaning chosen or destined, represents haliging huwaran or serving as role models for future midshipmen.
Marcos said Filipino seafarers continue to earn international respect because of their competence, professionalism, and dedication.
“They are respected because they consistently show competence, professionalism, and dedication. More importantly, they have earned the trust of the international community,” he said.
However, the President reminded the graduates that the reputation of Filipino seafarers must be continuously protected and earned by every generation.
“However, this reputation is not permanent and must be earned by every generation,” Marcos said.