As part of this yearโs Mission Objective Week, the Supreme Student Government held its annual Alumni Kamustahan Forum yesterday, October 22, 2025, at the JBL Hall.
Under the theme โLacsonian Legacy: Empowering a Culture Rooted in Purpose and Reflection,โ the program is designed to connect students to the world of seafaring, with the help of the universityโs alumni, to gain a clearer understanding of the profession.
Setting the tone was 2/O Marvin Panes Balasabas, who stressed topics such as isolation management and job demands, stating, โOur total well-being will be put to the test,โ as he shared how his experience taught him to value time and composure.
Chief Mate Jason Rey Pedregosa described the sea as โboth your friend and your toughest teacher,โ reminding students that weathering storms goes beyond enduring harsh waves, and encouraged them to find โflow activitiesโ to relieve pressure, noting that โstress at sea is a package deal.โ
Second Mate Peter Almarines discussed the importance of camaraderie and resilience onboard, urging students to be strong and report any form of bullying or harassment to proper authorities.
Captain Von Erick Robles emphasized the value of professionalism and continuous learning, saying, โI had no idea how much more to learn there was outside the classroom,โ and reminded students that eagerness to learn plays a key role in achieving success in the maritime field.
The event concluded with an open forum where students raised questions about seafaring life and situations they might encounter onboard. Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, administrator, also joined the discussion, posing inquiries to the speakers to further enrich the learning experience for the BSMT students.
This activity aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs): Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) and Quality Education (SDG 4).
Story by Mdpn. Kiann Marteen Baldo
Photos by Mdpn. Lee Harvey Gumban