"On August 5, 2024, SDS Mr. Rogelio Opulencia invited IMO Ambassador George Hoyt to participate in an event at Pacita Complex 2 Elementary School, where school bags and supplies were officially distributed to students. The event also included the City Mayor, Honorable Art Mercado, alongside distinguished local government officials. The AASI Team received a warm welcome from School Head Mrs. Leticia Deciar and the entire PC2ES community. During the event, Mr. Hoyt delivered an inspiring message to the students, highlighting the importance of education and emphasizing how fortunate they are to have a mayor dedicated to investing in their educational future. He also underscored the ongoing partnership with the Schools Division Office of San Pedro and reiterated his commitment to providing equal opportunities for both boys and girls through the Adopt a Ship program. As a special gesture, Mr. Hoyt presented the mayor with an IMO pin in recognition of his steadfast commitment to sustainable development and educational excellence, while also stressing the importance of maritime awareness among young learners. Following the event, Mr. Hoyt engaged in a discussion with Mayor Mercado about the Adopt a Ship program. He proudly presented the mayor with student-created artworks and a board game developed by one of the participating schools during their AAS activities. Mr. Hoyt outlined the program’s growth from two to twenty schools, with plans to expand into secondary education next year. He highlighted the program's achievements, trajectory, and its value as an educational tool for students. Additionally, Mr. Hoyt and Mr. Opulencia discussed future plans, including an inter-school competition for the board game and the development of simulator software to be placed in San Pedro, which would eliminate the need for students to travel to Manila to visit shipping companies. The program received high praise from Mayor Mercado, who expressed his full support. The meeting was highly productive, with significant and impactful plans set in motion. Mr. Hoyt was delighted to have the support of both the educational sector and the city mayor in advancing a transformative learning program that will greatly benefit the students of San Pedro. On August 22, 2024, San Vicente Elementary School celebrated the launch of the Adopt a Ship program in partnership with OSM Thome. The event featured a delegation from OSM Thome, led by General Manager Capt. Sherwin Rafael, accompanied by C/O Mark Lipit and the AASI Team, headed by C/O Jeffrey Aldas. The SNVES community, including students from grades 4 to 6 and their teachers, gathered to commemorate this special occasion. The program began with a stirring rendition of the Calabarzon hymn, followed by opening remarks from Mrs. Daylinda Daitol, who warmly welcomed the guests and expressed her gratitude for SNVES being chosen to host the program for the second time. A lively dance performance by the students set an energetic tone for the day, showcasing their enthusiasm and talents. Capt. Rafael introduced OSM Thome, highlighting the company's expertise in fleet management and the unique opportunities available for aspiring seafarers. He provided an overview of basic maritime concepts, discussing different types of ships and their crucial roles in global trade, while emphasizing the value of learning geography from seafarers who have traveled the world. C/O Lipit then explained the role of a Chief Officer, focusing on their responsibility for the safety of the crew and cargo. C/O Aldas engaged the students in an interactive discussion, introducing them to the world of shipping, its significance in everyday life, and how the Adopt a Ship program would be implemented. Throughout the 10-week maritime awareness program, students will be able to communicate with ship officers onboard through their Social Science teachers, allowing them to ask questions about shipping and gain insights into the life of a seafarer. As part of the program, teachers received free 2x3 meter world maps with sea routes, which will serve as an educational tool to help students track the movement of their adopted ship and enhance their understanding of geography. With the goal of integrating maritime education into the basic curriculum, the AASI Program aims to provide equal opportunities for both boys and girls, encouraging them to explore various career paths within the maritime industry. Mrs. Epifania Escopete delivered the closing remarks, thanking all involved for the opportunity and expressing her hopes for the program’s success at SNVES. The event concluded with a group photo, capturing the enthusiastic smiles and mutual appreciation of all participants. This moment reflects the power of collaboration in making a meaningful impact on students' lives through their participation in the Adopt a Ship program."