In a move to further strengthen its talent pipeline in the Philippines, Viking Cruises has partnered with Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA) to launch a new scholarship initiative aimed at creating career pathways for aspiring Filipino professionals in the global cruise industry. This agreement was formalized in a signing ceremony held on May 7 at MIHCA’s Illumine Restaurant at the Times Plaza Building in Ermita, Manila.
The partnership establishes a structured scholarship-to-employment pathway designed to prepare and qualify aspiring Filipino hospitality professionals for opportunities in the international cruise industry. After specialized training at MIHCA, scholars will be in prime position for potential deployment with Viking Cruises upon successful training completion and compliance with required screening and hiring standards.
The program highlights a significant step in aligning hospitality education with international cruise industry opportunities, equipping candidates with the skills required for global service environments.
Present during the ceremony were Viking Cruises Vice President for Crew Operations Stewart Coote, MIHCA President Chef Paolo Santino C. Guevara, Magsaysay Maritime Corporation (MMC) Cruise Group Head Ms. Nori M. Leonidas, MMC Fleet HR Manager Ms. Katherine G. Baladiang, along with representatives from the MIHCA management.
In his closing message at the event, Mr. Coote emphasized that the initiative reflects Viking’s continued commitment to creating more opportunities for aspiring hospitality and maritime professionals: “We are creating pathways of opportunity for the families of existing Viking crew members and for aspiring individuals who may not otherwise have the financial resources to pursue careers in hospitality or maritime service,” he said.
“These partnerships are more than training programs. They are gateways to long-term careers, economic opportunities, and brighter futures. With MIHCA and our global training partners helping develop exceptional talent, and Viking providing meaningful career opportunities, we hope to help the next generation turn potential into possibility,” he added.
Among the MIHCA programs included in the agreement are Culinary, Food and Beverage, and Housekeeping programs. To qualify for deployment with Viking Cruises, applicants must complete their program of choice and meet its qualification standards, including relevant educational background or hospitality experience, English proficiency, commitment to the cruise industry, and physical readiness for overseas deployment.
MIHCA President, Chef Guevara, emphasized that the partnership reflects a shared vision of empowering and developing future hospitality professionals through industry-aligned education and training. He also acknowledged Viking Cruises’ support in helping create clearer pathways for Filipino talent to pursue rewarding careers in the international cruise industry.
The collaboration further strengthens MIHCA’s role as a bridge between education and employment by working closely with global industry leaders to prepare Filipino professionals for world-class hospitality careers, while ensuring training remains aligned with international standards and industry needs.
