The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) commemorated its 51st Founding Anniversary on 02 June 2025, highlighting more than half a century of dedicated service to the nation’s maritime sector. This year’s celebration placed a strong emphasis on recognizing individuals and offices whose performance exemplifies integrity, professionalism, and excellence.

Honoring Organizational Excellence

At the central office, the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Office stood out, earning the title of Best Organizational Unit (Central Office) for the second consecutive year. The office also received the 2025 Administrator’s Model Service Unit Award, reaffirming its consistent commitment to quality service.

On the regional level, MARINA Regional Office 10 – Cagayan de Oro was named Best Organizational Unit (Regional Office), in recognition of its responsive and efficient service to stakeholders in Northern Mindanao.

Recognizing Outstanding Individuals

The awards also celebrated individual achievements across the agency.
• Engineer Divinagracia F. Tolosa, OIC-Director of the Maritime Safety Service (MSS), was named Best Director.
• Mr. Dan Henry V. Ramirez, Budget Division Chief, was honored as Best Employee (Division Chief/Supervising Category).

In addition, the Gawad ng Propesyonalismo Awards recognized exemplary professionalism and discipline in public service:
• Madiline Joanna Francisco Galve – Division Chief/Supervising Level
• Renato Mandap Sagmit – 2nd Level Category
• Mike Angielo Bersano Barrameda – 1st Level Category

Two staff members were also cited as Most Valuable Personnel under special employment arrangements:
• Merrowen Andong – Contract of Service Category
• Enrique Quitong Jr. – Job Order Category

Special Recognition and Appreciation

The Special Recognition Award was given to Mr. Dan Henry V. Ramirez and Dr. Joseph Victor Generato, Director of the Management Information and Systems Service (MISS), for their notable contributions beyond MARINA. A Token of Appreciation was also presented to Planning and Policy Service Director Luisito U. Delos Santos, the mind behind this year’s anniversary theme.

Looking Ahead

As MARINA turns 51, the agency not only reflects on its achievements but also looks forward to continuing its mission of building a more resilient, unified, and globally competitive Philippine maritime industry. The recognition of organizational and individual excellence serves as a reminder that progress is made possible through collective effort, dedication, and unwavering service to the nation.

PHOTO COURTESY: MARINA