MARINO PH
Your Maritime Digital Hub
For decades, Captain Edgardo V. Flores has been recognized as one of the Philippine maritime industry's most respected professionals. A Master Mariner, maritime executive, educator, and advocate , he has dedicated his career to advancing the welfare of Filipino seafarers while contributing to the continued growth of the country's global reputation in shipping. His extensive experience both at sea and ashore has made him a trusted leader among shipowners, manning agencies, maritime institutions, and seafarers alike.
Maintaining water quality is a critical part of efficient and safe ship operations. A Cooling and Boiler Water Test Kit is designed to help marine engineers monitor and manage the condition of water circulating through onboard cooling systems and boiler units. Regular testing supports equipment reliability, minimizes operational issues, and helps extend the service life of vital machinery. This testing kit contains the essential components required to perform routine onboard water analysis quickly and accurately. Included in the set are specialized reagents for hardness testing, chloride analysis, pH and alkalinity measurement, and nitrite/corrosion inhibitor evaluation. These tests provide valuable insight into water chemistry and allow early detection of conditions that may lead to scaling, corrosion, deposits, or reduced heat transfer efficiency. The kit also includes practical accessories such as a graduated syringe, dropper pipette, reaction test tube, sample bottle, plastic mixing container, color comparator chart, and an instruction manual with testing procedures. All components are organized in a protective carrying case with foam inserts, making the kit convenient for onboard use and storage. Routine cooling and boiler water testing is a standard preventive maintenance practice across the maritime industry. By maintaining proper water treatment parameters, vessel operators can improve machinery performance, reduce maintenance requirements, and support safer, more efficient vessel operations.
St. Petersburg Oil Terminal Hit in Large-Scale Ukrainian Drone Attack
A major Ukrainian drone attack struck oil and port infrastructure in and around St. Petersburg, Russia, overnight, marking one of the latest long-range attacks targeting the country's energy and maritime facilities, according to Russian and Ukrainian authorities. Russian officials said the city's main oil terminal was among the facilities hit during what was described as a large-scale drone assault. Authorities reported no casualties and said emergency responders managed the immediate aftermath of the attack. In the neighboring Leningrad region, officials also confirmed that a drone struck the port area of Vysotsk on the Baltic Sea, a strategic port that handles oil, grain, coal, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Russian authorities added that dozens of drones were intercepted during the operation. Ukrainian officials acknowledged carrying out long-range strikes, saying the operation targeted infrastructure considered important to Russia's military and energy sectors. Ukraine has intensified attacks on oil terminals, refineries, and fuel storage facilities in recent months as part of its broader military strategy.
Training Ship Golden Bear Nears End of 30 Years of Service with Final Voyage
The training ship Golden Bear is nearing the completion of its final training voyage after serving as the primary training vessel of Cal Poly Maritime Academy for nearly 30 years. The ship is scheduled to return to Vallejo, California, on July 6 after completing the academy's Summer Sea Term 2026, bringing home 283 cadets following a 12,500-mile voyage across the Pacific Ocean. During this year's voyage, the cadets visited several ports, including San Diego, Tahiti, Fiji, and Honolulu. While at sea, they gained practical experience by standing watch on the bridge and in the engine room, operating shipboard systems, participating in emergency drills, and developing the skills required of future merchant marine officers. Since entering service as a training ship in 1996, Golden Bear has served as a floating classroom for thousands of cadets. Originally built for the U.S. Navy as the oceanographic survey ship USNS Maury (T-AGS-39), the vessel was later converted into a training ship and became a key part of Cal Poly Maritime Academy's hands-on maritime education program.
China Launches New Coast Guard Patrol East of Taiwan Amid Ongoing Maritime Dispute
China has launched a new coast guard patrol east of Taiwan, replacing an earlier task force that had operated in the area and drawn objections from Taiwan as well as concern from several Western countries. Chinese authorities said the patrol will conduct law enforcement operations and strengthen regular enforcement activities in waters that Beijing considers to be under its jurisdiction. Taiwan responded by deploying coast guard vessels to monitor the Chinese ships and stated that it would take appropriate measures if its waters were challenged. Taiwanese officials reiterated that China has no legal authority to exercise law enforcement in the waters surrounding Taiwan and instructed local vessels not to comply with any inspection or boarding requests from Chinese coast guard ships.
Historic Ships Gather in New York for America 250
New York Harbor became the center of one of the largest maritime celebrations in recent U.S. history as dozens of historic tall ships and naval vessels assembled to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. The event, known as Sail4th 250, highlighted the country's rich maritime heritage while bringing together naval forces and sailing ships from the United States and several partner nations. More than 40 tall ships sailed through New York Harbor, accompanied by numerous military vessels in a ceremonial procession past iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty. The gathering showcased vessels representing different eras of naval history, from traditional sailing ships to modern warships, offering spectators a rare opportunity to witness centuries of maritime development in a single event. The celebration also featured an international naval review, reflecting the long-standing role of maritime cooperation in promoting diplomacy and global partnerships.
WMU Scholars Visit Intership Crew Philippines’ New State-of-the-Art Office
Students from the World Maritime University (WMU) visited the new office of Intership Crew Philippines at PITX Tower 4, Parañaque City, on June 26 as part of an educational immersion aimed at providing a deeper understanding of the Philippine maritime industry. The visit gave the scholars an opportunity to observe how one of the country's established manning agencies operates while learning about the vital role of the Philippines in supplying competent seafarers to the global shipping sector.
Digital Partnership Strengthened to Advance the Welfare of Filipino Seafarers
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and MARINO PH formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday at the DMW Central Office, establishing a digital partnership aimed at strengthening information sharing and enhancing support for Filipino seafarers around the world.
DMMA College of Southern Philippines Holds 32nd Commencement and 25th Recognition Exercises
The DMMA College of Southern Philippines successfully held its 32nd Commencement and 25th Recognition Exercises at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier in Davao City, celebrating another milestone in maritime education. The ceremony honored the graduates and completers of the Class of 2026, recognizing their years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance as they prepare to take the next step in their professional journey.
Thousands of Maritime Opportunities Open as Philippines Celebrates International Day of the Seafarer
MANILA, Philippines — In celebration of the International Day of the Seafarer on June 25, maritime stakeholders and government agencies gathered at Rizal Park Hotel in Manila to honor Filipino seafarers through a special job fair aimed at creating new career opportunities and recognizing their invaluable contribution to global shipping.
Understanding Mooring Lines: The Foundation of Safe Ship Berthing
Mooring lines are essential ropes or wires used to secure a vessel safely alongside a berth, pier, buoy, or offshore terminal. They keep the ship in position during cargo operations, bunkering, passenger transfers, and maintenance while preventing unwanted movement caused by wind, waves, currents, and tidal changes. A proper mooring arrangement protects the vessel, port facilities, cargo, and the safety of everyone on board and ashore.
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What is anchor? An anchor is a heavy device, typically made of metal, that is used to connect a vessel to the bed of a body of water to prevent the vessel from drifting due to wind or current. Purpose ‣To Hold the Vessel in Place It secures the ship in a fixed location, especially when it is not at a dock or port. ‣To Prevent Drifting It stops the vessel from being carried away by wind, waves, or currents. ‣To Provide Safety in Emergencies In case of engine failure or rough weather, the anchor helps prevent the ship from drifting into danger. ‣To Assist in Positioning During Operations Useful for activities like dredging, diving, or repairs where stability is essential. 1. Fluke Anchor (Danforth) The Fluke anchor, also known as the Danforth anchor, is a lightweight, high-holding power anchor designed with two wide flat flukes that pivot on a shank. Purpose: It is ideal for anchoring in sandy or muddy bottoms, where its broad flukes can dig in deeply and hold firmly. Key Features: ‣Made of high-strength steel or aluminum ‣Lightweight and easy to handle ‣Excellent holding power relative to its weight ‣Commonly used on smaller vessels, yachts, and recreational boats 2. Plow Anchor (CQR) The Plow Anchor, commonly known as the CQR anchor (short for Coastal Quick Release), features a single plow-shaped fluke that pivots on a shank, resembling a farmer’s plow. Purpose: Designed to penetrate and bury itself in a variety of seabeds, it is widely used for general-purpose anchoring, especially in changing conditions Key Features: ‣Heavy-duty forged or cast steel construction ‣Hinged design allows it to adapt to shifting loads ‣Performs well in sand, mud, gravel, and some grassy bottoms ‣Often seen on cruising and commercial vessels 3. Bruce Anchor The Bruce anchor, also known as the Claw anchor, is a one-piece anchor with a claw-like shape designed to dig into the seabed and provide steady holding power. Purpose: Developed originally for offshore oil rigs, the Bruce anchor is now popular for small to medium recreational boats due to its reliable setting and holding capabilities. Key Features: ‣Made from forged or cast steel ‣One-piece construction with no moving parts ‣Performs well in sand, mud, and some rocky bottoms ‣Commonly used by cruising yachts and powerboats
Sulzer Engine: RTA vs RT-flex Understanding the Evolution of Marine Propulsion
Sulzer marine engines have long played a major role in powering commercial shipping through reliability, fuel efficiency, and continuous technological advancement. Among their most recognized low-speed two-stroke engine designs are the RTA and RT-flex series, each representing different generations of marine engine development and operational capability. The Sulzer RTA engine is a mechanically controlled low-speed diesel engine designed for dependable performance and straightforward operation. Fuel injection and exhaust valve timing are driven mechanically through camshaft systems, making the engine robust and easier to maintain in traditional shipboard environments. RTA engines became widely used across various vessel types because of their proven durability and efficient fuel consumption during long-distance voyages.
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Parts of the Anchor System of a Ship
What is the Anchor System of a Ship? The anchor system is essential equipment that secures a ship in place at sea or in port. It consists of interconnected parts such as the anchor, chain, windlass, and locker, working together to prevent drifting, protect the vessel, and ensure safety during operations, emergencies, or harsh weather conditions. Parts of the Anchor System of a Ship 1. Anchor A heavy steel device that grips the seabed to hold the ship in position. It prevents drifting due to wind, waves, or current, ensuring stability and safety. 2. Chain Cable A strong, durable chain linking the anchor to the ship. Its weight and strength allow effective seabed penetration, withstand high tension, and resist corrosion in harsh marine conditions. 3. Windlass A powerful mechanical device used to heave up or let go the anchor chain. Operated hydraulically, electrically, or manually, it ensures safe, efficient anchoring operations and controlled chain movement. 4. Chain Stopper A securing device that locks the anchor chain when not in use. It relieves stress on the windlass, prevents chain slippage, and ensures safety during sailing or rough weather. 5. Anchor Lashing Strong securing arrangement that holds the anchor firmly in place while the ship is underway. It prevents unwanted movement caused by vibration, waves, or ship motion, protecting vessel structures. 6. Hawse Pipe A cylindrical pipe at the bow through which the anchor chain passes from deck to sea. It aligns and protects the chain, preventing friction damage and entanglement.
