Costa Crociere, the prestigious Italian Cruise Line and is part of Carnival Corporation which is the worldwide leader of the cruise industry; led by its President, Mr. Mario Zanetti, and Senior Vice President Human Resources, Mr. Paolo Tolle, recently embarked on a two-day business trip to the Philippines. Despite its brevity, the visit was filled with significant engagements, strengthening ties with key partners and stakeholders vital to the cruise industry.
On November 21, 2024, Mr. Zanetti and Mr. Tolle paid a courtesy call to Magsaysay’s head office in Ermita, Manila, where they were warmly welcomed by the Magsaysay Maritime Corporation’s top management, led by the Magsaysay Group President and CEO, Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho. With over two decades of strong partnership between the two organizations, the meeting served as a platform to discuss Costa’s strategic direction and reaffirm its commitment to the recruitment and welfare of Filipino seafarers. The dialogue emphasized enhancing crew well-being and shaping a future-focused framework for collaboration.
The first day also included an intimate dinner hosted by Magsaysay’s leadership team, where Mr. Zanetti and Mr. Tolle had the opportunity to engage with the Italian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Davide Giglio, and his wife.
On the second day, Costa’s representatives, accompanied by MMC’s management team, visited the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). There, they met with Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and officials from the Sea-based Accreditation Division. During this courtesy visit, Costa reaffirmed its strong commitment to employing and safeguarding the welfare of Filipino seafarers.
The visit concluded on a high note with a meeting at the Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA), where Mr. Zanetti and Mr. Tolle interacted with vacationing Costa crew members and trainees. A celebratory highlight of the trip was the unveiling of Costa’s official logo and Costa Campus logo at MIHCA Manila, symbolizing the enduring partnership and shared vision between the two organizations.
The productive and meaningful engagements during this two-day visit underscore Costa Crociere’s unwavering support for Filipino seafarers and its dedication to nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals. The future looks bright for those serving and aspiring to work with this esteemed Italian cruise line.