OSM Thome Launching Ceremonies with SVES, LES, and SNVES

For the second consecutive year, OSM Thome has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to shaping the future of maritime industry through its meaningful partnership with the Adopt-a-Ship Program. Guided by a vision anchored in education and a heart rooted in service, OSM Thome relaunched the program on July 10, 2025, across three ports of learning - Sampaguita Village Elementary School, Landayan Elementary School, and San Vicente Elementary School. This renewed collaboration, sailing under the emblem of maritime awareness, is a testament to OSM Thome’s belief in planting seeds of curiosity, values, and dreams among young learners - ensuring that the maritime profession remains vibrant in the minds of the next generation. Representing the company were Ms. Judith Jarabelo, General Manager for Crewing Operations, Ms. Amanda Uy, and Mr. Mandy Buenconsejo, alongside the AASI team led by IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador Mr. George Hoyt.

Launching Ceremony at SVES

The relaunch commenced at Sampaguita Village Elementary School, where the community - led by School Head Mrs. Maria Leonora Guerrero - welcomed the guests with warmth and joy. In her opening message, Mrs. Guerrero underscored the pivotal role of the maritime industry in everyday life and expressed deep gratitude for the program’s continued presence. Heartfelt testimonials from both students and teachers illuminated the profound impact of Adopt-a-Ship. Students spoke with pride and excitement, while teachers reflected on how the program transformed their lessons - infusing them with relevance, global perspective, and meaning. A handcrafted galleon ship, created by a student, was presented to OSM Thome as a symbolic gift that captured the imagination the program continues to ignite. Ms. Jarabelo provided insights into OSM Thome’s global operations, followed by a presentation of the ship officers assigned to correspond with students. Mr. George Hoyt delivered a powerful message on the values of teamwork, discipline, and character, while C/OFF Jeffrey Aldas outlined the program’s phases and how it connects students to a living network of seafarers. The event closed with gratitude and hope for continued success from Ms. Mary Ann Sawale, followed by the distribution of 2x3-meter world maps to guide students in tracking their ship’s journey - blending maritime exploration with geography learning. A group photo sealed the event with joy, unity, and hope for the journey ahead.

Launching Ceremony at LES

At long last, the tides have settled for Landayan Elementary School, which, after years of faithfully running the Adopt-a-Ship Program without ceremony due to recurring floods, finally opened its doors to host its very first launching celebration - a long-awaited moment filled with excitement and new beginnings. Led by School Head Mrs. Virginia Pulido, the school community embraced the program with open arms and hearts full of hope. Mrs. Pulido expressed profound appreciation for the opportunity, recognizing the program’s invaluable role in shaping students’ educational journeys. Emotional reflections from teachers and students revealed how maritime learning had shifted from abstract to tangible - making the vast world of shipping feel both personal and inspiring. Ms. Jarabelo spoke about breaking barriers, emphasizing the inclusivity of the shipping industry. She then introduced the ship officers who would be guiding students through their weekly exchanges. Mr. Hoyt shared wisdom on character, teamwork, and the inner compass that guides success. C/OFF Aldas encouraged students to ask bold questions and embrace the curiosity that drives discovery. In her closing remarks, Ms. Geraldine Tan expressed thanks and hope for a lasting collaboration. Students received world maps to track their ship’s voyage and expand their understanding of geography, trade, and global interdependence. The ceremony concluded with a photo that captured the spirit of unity and the promise of a transformative journey now underway.

Launching Ceremony at SNVES

At San Vicente Elementary School, the celebration continued - proof of a partnership that grows stronger with time. Despite shortened class hours, students and teachers extended their day to take part in the relaunch. Led by School Head Mr. Erwin Corpuz, the SNVES community welcomed the guests with warmth and enthusiasm. In his opening remarks, Mr. Corpuz conveyed his appreciation for the school being chosen once again to host the program, recognizing the collective effort behind its success. Testimonials followed, highlighting how the previous run had opened students' eyes to the seafaring world and inspired them to dream bigger. Ms. Jarabelo shared an overview of OSM Thome’s mission and introduced the officers who would connect with students in the weeks to come. Mr. Hoyt reinforced the importance of resilience, integrity, and collaboration in navigating both life and career. C/OFF Aldas offered an overview of the program and energized the students through a fun and interactive Q&A session. Ms. Myca De Leon closed the ceremony with words of gratitude and optimism for the continued growth of the partnership. To support learning beyond the ceremony, world maps were distributed, helping students visualize their ship’s path across the globe and enrich their classroom discussions. A photo opportunity capped the event - capturing not just smiling faces, but the enduring connection between education and the maritime world. With this meaningful relaunch, OSM Thome and its partner schools, once again embark on a shared voyage of learning, imagination, and collaboration. Through the Adopt-a-Ship Program, classrooms become ports of discovery, and students as future navigators of an industry that powers the world. This partnership continues to sow the seeds of maritime awareness, nurture character, and empower the next generation to rise with purpose. A future anchored in knowledge and steered by dreams that reach far beyond the horizon.