“University of Antique students, stand tall. Be proud of who you are and where you come from. You are not just the future; you are the now. Embrace this calling and the seas will carry you far.” – Ms. Mary Ann I. Pastrana, Chairperson – Archipelago Philippines Ferries Cooperation (FastCat Ferry services)

With the ongoing advocacy for quality maritime education, College of Maritime Studies (CMS) kicks off the celebration of Maritime Day 2025 today, April 25 with the theme: “Anchoring Excellence: Continuing University of Antique’s Path to Maritime Excellence”, at the Paghi-usa Hall, Main Campus.

The yearly undertaking began with a marching parade that gathered 800 strong CMS cadets from Sibalom Plaza to the main campus.

Capt. Luis V. Garfin, CMS Dean, acknowledged the role each one plays in shaping the next generation of maritime professionals who are capable, responsible, and ready for a dynamic future.

“This year’s celebration is not just about looking back at the achievements, but it is also looking forward towards innovation, sustainability, and growing importance of digitalization and decarbonization in our field”, he stated.

Dr. Pablo S. Crespo, Jr., University President shared how he made sure that the CMS returns to UA, “…so that Antiqueño youth who wanted to become seafarers hindi na kailangan pumunta sa city and pay thousands of pesos because we are a state university, students here could become seafarers without paying for tuition fees and miscellaneous fees”, he said.

Moreover, Dr. Crespo also emphasized the importance of living up to the standard set by CHED and MARINA to ensure that all graduates that the college produces are qualified, quality, and excellent seafarers.

Ms. Pastrana, this year’s guest speaker, made the event more special when she announced their partnership with UA through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that gives opportunities for maritime students to have internship programs, on-board training, and experience with the best technologies and real ship environments while also advocating for women in the industry.

The 2-day activity features a series of competitions such as: quiz bee, painting, knot tying, radar and chart plotting, debate, fire and boat drill, as well as the highly anticipated search for Star and Model Cadet 2025.