MUNTINLUPA CITY, Philippines — West Bay Colleges, Inc. successfully held its 25th Maritime Recognition Rites on July 17, 2026, at the West Bay College Auditorium, honoring the Maritime Class of 2026 as they completed their three-year classroom instruction and prepared to begin their shipboard training.

Carrying the theme, "Steering through the Horizon and Building Legacy with Excellence and Competence in Leadership, Business, and Human Empathy", the ceremony gathered school officials, faculty members, parents, guests, and maritime cadets to celebrate a significant milestone in their academic and professional journey.

The program featured the presentation of candidates who successfully completed their classroom instruction, the formal acceptance of candidates for shipboard practice, the recognition of Loyalty and Service Award recipients, and messages from school officials and maritime leaders. The ceremony also included the Pledge of Loyalty, the batch song, the West Bay College Hymn, and the recessional.

The completion of the three-year classroom phase marks the beginning of the cadets\' onboard training, where they will gain practical experience aboard ships and apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their academic studies. Shipboard training is a vital requirement in preparing future Filipino maritime officers for careers in the global shipping industry.

On behalf of MARINO PH, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the West Bay Colleges Maritime Class of 2026 on this remarkable achievement. Your dedication and hard work have brought you one step closer to your dream of becoming professional seafarers. As you begin your shipboard training, may you continue to uphold excellence, discipline, and integrity in every voyage. Congratulations, West Bay Colleges Maritime Class of 2026, and may you enjoy safe seas and a successful maritime career ahead!

The maritime industry looks forward to welcoming a new generation of competent and responsible Filipino seafarers. As you step aboard your training vessels, embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen your professionalism. May your passion for service, commitment to safety, and pursuit of excellence guide you throughout your maritime journey. Fair winds and following seas to the West Bay Colleges Maritime Class of 2026!