How do you honor half a century of keeping the Philippines’ waters safe? You celebrate the people who make it happen.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) marked a significant milestone celebrating 51 years of dedicated service to the Filipino maritime community. But this wasn’t just another anniversary celebration—it was a heartfelt recognition of the men and women who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our seas safe and our maritime industry thriving.
The MARINA family gathered for the recognition ceremony, where outstanding services and unwavering teamwork took center stage. It’s rare to see such genuine appreciation for public servants, but MARINA proved that excellence deserves to be celebrated.
Champions of excellence
Leading the pack was the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Office, which made history by clinching the Best Organizational Unit (Central Office) award for the second year running. Their consistency earned them the prestigious 2025 Administrator’s Model Service Unit Award—a testament to their unwavering commitment to maritime training standards.
Not to be outdone, MARINA Regional Office 10 in Cagayan de Oro sailed to victory as the Best Organizational Unit (Regional Office), proving that excellence knows no boundaries as they continue serving Northern Mindanao with distinction
The spotlight also shone brightly on individual achievers. Engr. Divinagracia F. Tolosa, Officer-in-Charge Director of Maritime Safety Services, was honored as Best Director, while Dan Henry V. Ramirez, Budget Division Chief, earned recognition as Best Employee in the Division Chief/Supervising Category.
The Gawad ng Propesyonalismo Awards recognized three exceptional individuals who embody commitment, competence, and discipline:
Madiline Joanna Francisco Galve (Division Chief/Supervising Level)
Renato Mandap Sagmit (2nd Level Category)
Mike Angielo Bersano Barrameda (1st Level Category)
In a touching moment that highlighted MARINA’s inclusive culture, two dedicated staff members working under Job Order and Contract of Service arrangements were named Most Valuable Personnel for their professionalism: Merrowen Andong (Contract of Service) and Enrique Quitong Jr. (Job Order). Their recognition sends a powerful message that every contribution matters, regardless of employment status.
The ceremony also celebrated achievements that reached MARINA’s walls, Budget Division Chief Dan Henry V. Ramirez and Dr. Joseph Victor Generato, Director of Management Information and Systems Service, received special recognition for their accomplishments outside the organization. Meanwhile, Planning and Policy Service Director Luisito U. Delos Santos earned a Token of Appreciation for crafting this year’s inspiring anniversary theme.
A Captain’s vision for the future
Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan closed the ceremony with words that inspired unity and leadership. Drawing a powerful parallel between MARINA and maritime operations, she reminded everyone present of their collective strenght: “We have the power to lead this transformation, to set new standards, and to inspire future generations. Just as a ship relies on its crew to function effectively, we must work together-across sections, divisions, service units, and regional offices – to achieve our common goals. By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can create a stronger, more unified MARINA that is prepared to face the future.”
Her words captured something essential about public service: it’s not about individual glory, but about rowing in the same direction toward a common destination.
