International and local delegates gathered yesterday for the International Maritime Conference and Business Meeting 2026 to discuss maritime administration initiatives, the resurgence of short-sea shipping and coaster trade between Europe and Africa, green shipping pathways toward net-zero emissions, alternative marine fuels and propulsion systems, and the future of onboard training.

Among the international delegates who graced the event were the Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Norway, His Excellency Christian Halaas Lyster, and Capt. Yusuke Mori, Ph.D, Deputy Executive Director of International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU). Dr. Mary Lou L. Arcelo, President Emeritus and Chairman of the Board of Board, and Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, Chief Executive Officer, together with the university’s board of trustees were also in attendance.

With the theme, “Maritime Synergy: Bridging Industry, Government and Academia for Excellence”, this program aimed to foster strong collaboration among industry, government, and academia in advancing innovative, sustainable, and future-ready maritime governance, operations, technology, and education.

The event kicked off with the Chairman’s conference overview led by Dr. Arcelo and a keynote speech from His Excellency Ambassador Lyster.

 In the Ambassador’s speech he emphasized that technology alone cannot sustain the future without help of human beings, especially in the maritime field.

“Technology alone will not deliver a sustainable maritime future. People remain at the heart of shipping. As vessels become more advanced, the competence required onboard also increases. Seafarers of the future must master not only traditional seamanship and engineering but also energy management, emissions reduction, digital systems, automation, and cyber security.“ H.E Ambassador Lyster said.

It was followed by Engr. Bernardo Pollo, MARINA Region 6 Regional Director, who discussed the initiatives of the administration to help Filipino seafarers.

Then, Dr. Arend Bruegge, CEO and Managing Partner of Vega-Reederei GmbH & Co. KG., through a video conference call, discussed the topic online about Short-Sea Shipping Renaissance: Coaster Trade Opportunities between Europe and Africa.

After the innovative talk with Dr. Bruegge, Capt. Achilles M. Cuadra Jr., CEO of Dakila Ship Management Corporation took the podium and talked about green shipping initiatives towards net zero.

Capt. Kennette F. Clavel, Vice President for Operations of Ventis Maritime Corporation then shared his knowledge about Alternative Marine Fuels and Propulsion Systems.

The Deputy Executive Director of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU), Capt. Yusuke Mori, PhD on the other hand, broadened student’s perception about life at sea as he openly shared his experience about the current on board training realities and beyond.

In attendance at the JBL Hall were students and faculty from the three academic units, as well as members of the Board of Trustees. This annual program aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG): Quality Education (SDG 4); Innovative, Innovation, Infrastructure (SDG 9); Climate Action (SDG 13), and Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17).

Story by Mdpn. John Kirk Shadi Magsael
Photos by Mdpn. Nikko Mariquit
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