The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) in Tacloban City has achieved a historic milestone, serving a total of 22,972 active and aspiring Filipino seafarers in 2025. This marks the highest number of successful trainees since the state-run institution began its operations in 1983.
Record-Breaking Year and Presidential Visit
NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario attributed the achievement to the continuous development of new training courses and expanded class offerings. The agency also forged partnerships with schools offering maritime programs nationwide to broaden its reach.
Capping off the landmark year was the first official visit of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., on December 12, 2025. Accompanied by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the President received a briefing and witnessed a technical demonstration of NMP's new advanced simulation systems.
These multi-million peso simulators include a P40-million Full Mission Bridge Simulator, a P10-million Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator, and upgraded Engine Room Simulator Software worth P2-million.
Expanded Services and Major Funding Boost
Beyond training, NMP strengthened its service portfolio by securing accreditation from MARINA as an official assessment center. This development provides seafarers in Eastern Visayas and nearby regions with greater access to assessment services, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming travel to distant centers.
In a significant boost for its infrastructure, NMP is set to receive its highest-ever budget allocation of P427-million under the DMW's 2026 budget. This funding is earmarked for major upgrades to the institution's facilities.
Further enhancing accessibility, NMP is advancing plans to establish new offices and training centers in Cavite and Davao City, supported by an ongoing feasibility study with the Development Academy of the Philippines.
Research, Recognition, and Future Commitments
The institution's 2025 accomplishments extend into research and sectoral collaboration. NMP completed three major research projects focusing on Filipino women in maritime, seafarer health and wellness, and a rapid assessment of the Philippine maritime workforce.
It also hosted the first Maritime Research, Education, and Training Summit (MRETS) in Manila last September to address emerging industry challenges. In a new tradition, NMP conferred its first-ever Natatanging Marinong Pilipino award to Chief Salvador Calipes Esquibel Jr., a recognition that will become an annual highlight during the National Maritime Week.
Reflecting exceptional service quality, NMP earned an outstanding Client Satisfaction Rating of 99 percent. In a statement, the agency reiterated its commitment to ensuring every Filipino seafarer is globally competitive, thereby sustaining the country's position as the world's top supplier of maritime professionals.
"We express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey to serve our modern-day heroes," said Executive Director Del Rosario. "We have come a long way, yet there is still much we can accomplish together."
