With the Philippines and Norway having a long history of bilateral partnership in the maritime sector, the Lyceum International Maritime Academy of LPU-Batangas opened its doors to the Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Christian Lyster, and the Norwegian Training Center (NTC), on February 23, 2023. This further highlights LPU-B LIMA’s partnership with the Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA) as they engaged in a substantial discussion regarding high-quality maritime education and corporate social responsibility.
LIMA was chosen by NSA to showcase the world-class education that Philippine maritime academies can offer. During the tour of facilities, the ambassador was able to witness the instructional facilities that the LIMA cadets utilize in their classes and training. Before the tour of facilities, the entourage was welcomed with a silent drill that exemplified the discipline and professionalism of LIMA cadets. The drill was capped off with a welcome dance from the Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe. The LPU Vocal Harmonics then lead an ecumenical song and the national anthems of both Philippines and Norway.
After the welcome message of the university President, Dr. Peter P. Laurel, His Excellency Christian Lyster expressed his excitement about the continuous partnership between Norway and the Philippines. He mentioned that the harmonious relationship between the two countries must root from their similar geographical attributes, having coastal areas that continuously boost the shipping and business sectors.
On the other hand, Capt. Jo Even Tomren, Managing Director of NTC, assured the Norwegian Embassy and LIMA that NSA will continuously be a catalyst in the partnership mentioned by Ambassador Lyster. Moreover, he pointed out that this visit is a testament to the value that both Norway and the Philippines place importance in high-quality education. He also thanked LIMA for embracing NSA as this is a chance to show the potential of Filipino cadets and the importance of their role in the future of maritime. Capt. Tomren also added that they chose LIMA as a partner school because they believe in the values it can inculcate in future generations of seafarers.
Ambassador Lyster was joined by Ms. Ana-Maria Francesca Florentino, Business and Trade Advisor, and Mr. Kevin Magtalas, Communication Advisor. Aside from Capt. Tomren, NTC was also represented by Capt. Knut Bentzrod, and Capt. Larry Gonzales.
Meanwhile, the entire LPU-B power team was present in the welcome event headed by Dr. Peter P. Laurel, University President, Mr. Frederick C. Badillo-Senior Vice President/Vice President for Finance, Mr. Paolo Sotero S. Laurel-Vice President for Institutional Affairs, Dr. Cecilia C. Pring-Vice President for Academics & Research/Dean, College of Nursing, Dr. Conrado I. Dotong- Assistant Vice President for Academics and Research/ Dean, College of Engineering/Dean, Graduate School, Mrs. Geraldine D. De Erit- University Registrar/ Division Head, Student Services, Capt. Christher Joseph M. Del Rio- On-Board Training Officer, Capt. Alexander A. Gonzales- Dean, Lyceum International Maritime Academy, Ms. Hencel Shaira R. Vizco-Director for Instruction, Lyceum International Maritime Academy, Dr. Maribeth G. Buenviaje- Executive Director, Strategic Communications, Linkages & International Affairs, Miss Analiza B. Puyo- Director, Maritime Quality Systems and Standards, Mr. Joseph Cezar L. Deligero- Director, Human Resource Management and Development Office/ Head, Security Services, Mr. Eric V. Orolfo- Director, Culture and Arts, and Mr. Leonardo A. Ona, Dorm Manager.
The welcome event was hosted by Atty. Reynold S. Beredo-Director, Student Affairs/ Legal Consultant.
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