WALLEM-WESTMINSTER LAUNCHING CEREMONY WITH SAES

Wallem-Westminster's ongoing commitment for maritime education continues to shine through its active participation in the Adopt-A-Ship program. Spearheaded by its President, Capt. Ceferino Leal Jr., alongside Nautical Training Manager Capt. Eduardo Labanta and Technical Training Manager C/E Jesse Lorenzo, the company’s unwavering support was deeply felt even in their absence during the relaunching ceremony held on July 8, 2025, at San Antonio Elementary School. Representing the company on this special day was the AASI team, led by IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador Mr. George Hoyt, alongside Dr. Erma Valenzuela, CID Chief from the Schools Division Office of San Pedro, and the SAES school community headed by Mr. Edgardo Mujeco and Assistant School Head Ms. Michelle Padolina. The program opened with a warm welcome from Ms. Wilma Luyun, who emphasized the growing importance of maritime education in shaping globally aware and future-ready learners. This was followed by heartfelt testimonials from selected students and teachers who shared how the program transformed their classroom experiences - turning abstract geography lessons into real-life, meaningful connections with seafarers around the world. In his message, Mr. Mujeco expressed sincere appreciation for the partnership and recognized the powerful impact it has had on their students' perspectives. Dr. Valenzuela delivered a motivational speech underscoring the synergy between basic education and maritime exploration, encouraging students to dream beyond borders. Ambassador Hoyt brought the global maritime industry closer to the learners, highlighting the vital role of seafarers and the life-changing influence of maritime education. C/O Jeffrey Aldas walked the audience through the program’s phases and formally welcomed SAES into another enriching cycle of global learning through Adopt-A-Ship.The program concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Analisa Reyes, who conveyed gratitude and optimism for the continued success of the partnership. Teachers also received 2x3m world maps to help track their adopted ships - tools that will support interactive geography and social science lessons in the classroom. The event ended with a group photo that captured the spirit of partnership and the school’s continuing journey into the world of maritime discovery.