DASMARIÑAS, CAVITE, August 12, 2026 — Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), Kaneko Yasushi, visited the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA), highlighting the strong maritime ties between Japan and the Philippines and the vital role of Filipino seafarers in keeping global shipping safe and sustainable. Minister Kaneko was welcomed by the MMMA leadership led by Chairman Marlon Roño and President Dr. Alex Enriquez, together with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) Country Representative Goro Yamashita.
During his visit, Minister Kaneko toured MMMA’s training and academic facilities and interacted with cadets during their classes and practical training. The visit provided an opportunity to see firsthand how future deck and engine officers are being prepared for careers in the international maritime industry.
Minister Kaneko also took part in MMMA’s traditional Tree Planting Ceremony, an activity held in honor of distinguished guests visiting the Academy. The ceremony reflects MMMA’s commitment to nurturing and developing future generations of maritime professionals and strengthening its partnership with Japan.
Minister Kaneko also engaged MMMA cadets in a discussion on the career opportunities available to Filipino maritime professionals. He commended MMMA, MOL, and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation (MMC) for providing young Filipinos access to modern maritime education, training facilities, and opportunities to build careers in the Japanese and international shipping industries.
Speaking to the cadets, Minister Kaneko emphasized the significant contribution of Filipino seafarers to both the Philippine and Japanese maritime sectors, particularly in maintaining the safe operation of vessels and protecting the people who depend on maritime transportation.
“The economies of the Philippines and Japan are sustained by seafarers, many of whom come from the Philippines. They also play an important role in sustaining maritime safety,” Minister Kaneko said.
Encouraging the cadets to pursue maritime careers in Japan, he added, “We are hoping that you can come onboard Japanese vessels. I welcome you all.”
Jointly operated by MOL and MMC, MMMA provides academic and practical education and training for future maritime deck and engine officers and professionals.
Minister Kaneko’s visit was a meaningful affirmation of the strong maritime ties between the Philippines and Japan, particularly in education and training, and MMMA’s role in preparing Filipino maritime professionals for careers in the international shipping industry.
