International Maritime Organization Secretary‑General Arsenio Dominguez visited the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) on Feb. 18, 2026. He was welcomed by MMMA President Dr. Michael Morales and by Magsaysay Group leaders Doris Magsaysay Ho, Marlon Roño and Arnold Javier. Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro Locsin Jr., MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan and STCW Executive Director Samuel Batalla also joined the delegation.
The visit began with a tree‑planting ceremony. The act highlighted MMMA’s push for sustainability and environmental stewardship. After the ceremony, Dominguez toured the campus. He saw the academy’s modern simulators and met cadets in training.
In an open dialogue, the IMO chief answered cadets’ questions about automation and gender equality. He said artificial intelligence will not replace seafarers. “Our objective,” Dominguez shared, “is not to replace seafarers, but to use technology to assist them, reduce fatigue, and make life on board easier while maintaining safety and operational readiness.”
When a female cadet asked about women’s representation, Dominguez stressed the need for gender policies. He said, “Gender policies are important, and while we have made significant progress, shipping has historically been male‑dominated. It is essential that people on board ships are treated the same way they are treated ashore, including investing in proper accommodation and facilities. Training on harassment and sexual harassment is also helping to protect, in particular, female seafarers.”
The delegation left with a clear message. Human judgment remains vital in the AI era. The Philippines continues to play a key role in shaping maritime education. MMMA’s blend of hands‑on learning, innovation and safety prepares the next generation of Filipino seafarers for a changing industry.
IMO Chief Reassures Filipino Seafarers Amid AI Wave
