Following her launch on November 5, 2025, Grande Manila, Grimaldi Group’s newest vessel, was formally named on January 12, 2026 at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding in Shanghai, China. The ceremony was attended by Magsaysay Group President and CEO Doris Magsaysay Ho, who served as the vessel’s Godmother.
The successful launch and naming of Grande Manila underscore the enduring partnership between the Magsaysay Group and the Grimaldi Group, reaffirming their shared commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and the advancement of Filipino seafarers in global shipping.
DHO being the vessel’s godmother signifies not only tradition, but also the depth of trust and collaboration between Magsaysay and Grimaldi. She was joined by Magsaysay People Resources Corporation (MPRC) President and Orione Crew Management Chairman Marlon Roño.
More than a ceremonial role, the Godmother’s presence highlights Magsaysay’s, through Orione Crew Management, strategic contribution to the Grimaldi fleet and its people. Through this partnership, Orione continues to play a vital role in providing meaningful and sustainable opportunities for Filipino maritime professionals. At present, 17 Filipino seafarers (12 ratings and five officers) are actively deployed across Grimaldi vessels, reflecting Magsaysay’s ongoing commitment to world-class crewing and talent development.
Grande Manila is the latest addition to Grimaldi’s modern fleet of Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) and is a sister vessel to Grande Tianjin and Grande Auckland, both delivered earlier in 2025. Measuring 200 meters in length with a beam of 38 meters, the vessel boasts a total capacity of 9,241 car equivalent units (CEUs). Four of its vehicle decks are designed for versatility, capable of accommodating rolling cargo and heavy loads of up to 250 tons, as well as freight with heights of up to 6.5 meters.
Demonstrating Grimaldi’s and Magsaysay’s forward-looking approach to sustainability, Grande Manila has been awarded the “ammonia-ready” class notation by Registro Italiano Navale (RINA), certifying her potential for future conversion to ammonia as an alternative fuel.
The naming of Grande Manila is a testament to the strength of the Magsaysay–Grimaldi partnership— one that goes beyond fleet expansion to encompass innovation, environmental responsibility, and the continuous empowerment of Filipino seafarers on the global stage.
