On September 12, 2018, the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) was formally inaugurated in Dasmarinas, Cavite, Philippines. The Academy was established to elevate maritime education, in response to the changing needs of the global shipping industry. The Academy sits on a 13.7 hectare-facility which houses a ship-in-campus, equipped with a 2-stroke Electronic Engine Diesel Main Engine (MAN BMW) & Generator (Yanmar Diesel Engine), Full Mission Bridge Simulators, providing students with a real-life working environment. It also has a student complex, an academic center and a dormitory.

The executives of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Magsaysay Group of Companies, headed by MOL President Mr. Junichiro Ikeda and the Magsaysay Group of Companies CEO Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho welcomed guests to the event. In his speech, the guest of honor, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade recognized MMMA as the two companies’ gift to the Filipino people and the global shipping community.

The Ship-In-Campus was named “Spirit of MMMA” by Senator Grace Poe. She affirmed the need for the Filipinos to continuously upgrade their skills and competencies to remain as the global seafarer of choice. Also in attendance were other leaders of the Philippine Maritime Industry, including DOTr Undersecretary for Maritime Affairs Mr. Philip Judan, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Mr. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, and notable members of the diplomatic corps, including His Excellencies Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda, Canadian Ambassador John Holmes, and Panamanian Ambassador Rolando Guevarra-Alvarado.