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PMMA Alumni Association Hosts New Year’s Ball, Welcomes New Adopted Member, and Announces Elected Leaders for 2026–2027

The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association, Inc. (PMMAAI) successfully held its New Year’s Ball, B-Connect, and Election on January 8, 2026, at One Shangri-La Condominium Corporation, bringing together PMMA alumni from different generations for an evening of fellowship, recognition, and leadership transition.

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The event commenced with in-person voting and registration, followed by the Opening and welcome remarks were delivered by PMMAAI President Gal. Jeremias Simon, setting the tone for a meaningful and forward-looking gathering. PMMA Superintendent Joel Y. Abutal formally introduced the Guest of Honor and Speaker.

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A key highlight of the program was the message from Undersecretary Benjamin C. Acorda Jr., Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker. The evening also featured the Awarding Ceremony for Outstanding Alumni, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and service to the maritime industry.

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During the Swearing-In Ceremony of Adopted Members, Dr. Reno B. Bolivar, Founder of Marino PH, was formally adopted by PMMA Class 1993, marking a significant moment of inter-batch solidarity and strengthening ties between the academy’s alumni network and the broader maritime community.

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The formal program transitioned into dinner, entertainment, sponsor presentations, and networking, reinforcing camaraderie among alumni across classes.

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Elected Board of Directors (2026–2027)

The following alumni were officially elected to the Board of Directors:
• Vera Christine Navarrete-Dadula (Class 2000)
• Jay E. De Vicente (Class 2008)
• Christie Calamba-Cabuyaban (Class 2003)
• Eugenio Federico (Class 2002)
• Michael Armamento (Class 2000)
• Maria Theressa Cabrera-Bayaua (Class 2017)
• Anthony Cuevas (Class 2004)
• Daphnie Asistores-Orendain (Class 2012)
• Antonio B. Dizon (Class 1994)
• Juan Paolo I. Rigodon (Class 2018)
• Jan Kyle A. Dulnunan (Class 2020)
• Rhon Daniel Louise Batton (Class 2025)
• Marc John C. Castaneto (Class 2025)

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Elected Board of Trustees (2026–2027)

Elected to serve on the Board of Trustees are:
• Agapito B. Bibat (Class 1993)
• Gilbert G. Llamado (Class 1986)
• Joel S. Garcia (Class 1985)
• Chito Felix C. Majabague (Class 1983)
• Analita Piñon-Austria (Class 2000)
• Nelson Gerardo T. Prias (Class 1985)
• Edison T. Batalla (Class 2000)
• Melquiades Ordialles Jr. (Class 1987)
• Rogelio B. Sobremonte (Class 1984)
• Juanito Jr. G. Salvatierra (Class 1976)

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The official announcement of the results was led by Elecom Chairman Gal. Jeffrey R. Collado, together with Vice Chairman Gal. Henrik T. Baes and Member Gal. Michael B. Andag, ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. Closing remarks were delivered by Secretary General Gal. Edison Batalla.

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The successful event reaffirmed PMMAAI’s commitment to leadership, unity, and service strengthening the role of alumni in supporting the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy and the maritime profession.