The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) in Tacloban City has recorded its highest number of trainees in 2025, serving 22,972 active and aspiring Filipino seafarers. This is the largest number since the state-run institution began its training operations in 1983.

The agency said the increase was the result of continued efforts to make maritime training more accessible across the country.

NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario explained that the institution regularly developed new and responsive training courses, opened more classes and batches, and worked with maritime and allied schools nationwide to accommodate more enrollees.

A major development during the year was NMP’s accreditation by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as an assessment centre. This allows seafarers in Eastern Visayas and nearby areas to complete assessments locally, removing the need to travel long distances. NMP said this has made the assessment process more accessible, efficient, and convenient.

Aside from training and assessment, NMP completed three research projects in 2025. These focused on the profile of Filipino women in maritime (Phase 2), the health and wellness of Filipino seafarers, and key workforce issues and challenges in the Philippine maritime sector.

The institution also reported strong performance in managing public funds, with its budget utilisation rate projected at 99 per cent. Additionally, NMP recorded a 99 per cent client satisfaction rating, showing a high level of trust among Filipino seafarers in its training and services.

For the coming year, NMP is set to receive its largest budget allocation to date, amounting to PHP427 million under the 2026 budget of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

The funding will support several infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of two dormitories, the construction of a new training pool, and the development of a firefighting training area with a mock building.

NMP is moving ahead with plans to establish new offices and training centres in Cavite and Davao City. These plans are currently backed by an ongoing feasibility study in partnership with the Development Academy of the Philippines.

The year ended with the first official visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to NMP on 12 December, together with Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.

During the visit, officials were briefed on technical demonstrations of newly installed simulation systems, including a PHP40-million Full Mission Bridge Simulator, a PHP10-million Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator, and upgraded Engine Room Simulator software worth PHP2 million.

In 2025, NMP hosted the first Maritime Research, Education, and Training Summit (MRETS) on 25–26 September at the Manila Hotel. The summit focused on addressing emerging challenges and urgent issues facing Filipino seafarers.

Another milestone for the agency was the presentation of its first Outstanding Alumnus award, known as the Natatanging Marinong Pilipino, to Chief Salvador Calipes Esquibel Jr.

NMP said this recognition will continue as part of the National Maritime Week celebrations held every September.

References: PNA, sunstar