MANILA, PHILIPPINES — United Marine Training Center (UMTC) has officially broken ground on the United Marine Green Energy Center, marking a major step toward strengthening the Philippines’ capacity to prepare seafarers for evolving technologies, alternative fuels, and operational demands. The initiative aims to ensure that Filipino maritime professionals remain equipped for the changing requirements of global shipping.

The Green Energy Center is a joint initiative of UMTC, Green Marine Group, and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), combining training infrastructure, technical expertise, and regulatory guidance. The facility will feature an onboard training environment where seafarers can gain practical experience in vessel systems, alternative-fuel technologies, safe operating procedures, risk management, and emergency response.

The development comes as international shipping accelerates its transition toward lower-emission technologies and alternative marine fuels. As vessels increasingly adopt LNG, methanol, ethanol, and other low- and zero-carbon energy solutions, realistic and hands-on training will become increasingly important in preparing crews to safely operate sophisticated shipboard systems.

The ceremony featured the ceremonial groundbreaking, placement of a Time Capsule, and signing of the Founding Legacy Wall. The speakers, in order, were Tony Galvez, Donald Bautista, Roy Akker, MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, Green Marine Managing Director C/E Julian Lopez, and Yevgenni Rokatenko.

Other maritime officials and industry representatives present included STCW Office Executive Director Samuel L. Batalla, Acting Deputy Administrator for Education, Training, and Certification Presca Lee Lugo, Capt. Ariel Gaban, and IMEC IMTF Advisor Chief Elmer Palumbarit. The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was represented by Deputy Head of Mission Robert Van der Hum and Patricia Sarmiento-Alvendia of Economic Affairs, while former Owner’s Representative Joost Mes also attended.

Beyond constructing a new training facility, the Green Energy Center represents an investment in the future readiness and competitiveness of Filipino seafarers. Once operational, it is expected to help officers and crew develop the practical competencies needed to safely operate alternative-fuel vessels while supporting regulatory compliance, technological advancement, and maritime decarbonization.