San Narciso, Zambales – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to boost the maritime education in the country by implementing new programs and test that will upgrade the current crop of Filipino maritime students.

During the Commencement Exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) 'Kadaligtan' Class of 2025 here on August 15, President Marcos cited that the national government plans to implement a National Merchant Marine Aptitude Test.

Marcos said that the aptitude test aims to measure the readiness of the youth to embark on maritime courses in college. He added that a Ladderized Maritime Education and Training Program is being formulated for the continuous growth from non-degree to a degree program for students.

He added that the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is looking for various processes and means to provide more opportunities for onboard training.

Marcos led the Commencement Exercises of the PMMA Kadaligtan Class of 2025 wherein 252 cadets graduated from their respective courses. Of these, 144 are graduating with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Marine Transportation, and 108 are earning a BS in Marine Engineering.

Kadaligtan stands for Kawal ng Dalampasigan, Liwanag ng Karagatan.

Hailing as the top of the class is Midshipman First Class (MIDN/1CL) Marc John Castañeto from Llanera, Nueva Ecija.  He is the son of a retired elementary school teacher and a retired bus conductor.

The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) is a 205-year-old government-funded pioneer institution in maritime higher education, producing the finest Filipino merchant marine officers to serve in marine and maritime-related industries worldwide.