The Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) and the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) officially marked a new milestone in maritime education with the successful inauguration of the IMEC Building on May 27, 2025, at the MAAP campus in Mariveles, Bataan.

The ceremony, which drew prominent figures from both local and international maritime sectors, was led by VADM Eduardo Ma R. Santos, MAAP President, and Mr. Simon Spacey, Incoming Chairman of IMEC. They were joined by Capt. Ahmed Belal, Chairman of IMEC, and Dr. Conrado F. Oca, President of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), whose joint presence underscored the enduring partnership between IMEC and MAAP in shaping the future of maritime training.

Also in attendance were representatives from global shipping companies, maritime training institutions, and IMEC member organizations—reflecting the international community’s confidence in the Philippines as a center of seafarer excellence.

The newly inaugurated IMEC Building stands as a testament to innovation and collaboration in maritime education. Designed with modern facilities and advanced simulation systems, it aims to enhance hands-on learning experiences and develop the technical and leadership skills of cadets and maritime professionals.

This milestone further cements MAAP’s reputation as one of Asia’s premier maritime institutions and strengthens IMEC’s ongoing mission to uplift training standards worldwide. Together, both organizations reaffirm their shared goal—to equip Filipino seafarers with world-class competencies, ensuring they remain among the most trusted and respected professionals at sea.