PMMA MASAKBAYAN Class of 2020 Graduation Rites

Putting off its plans for a grand celebration amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the graduating class of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy donned face masks and observed social/physical distancing during the commencement exercises held on 12 and 25 June 2020 at the Mess Hall, PMMA Complex, San Narciso, Zambales. Two (2) commencement exercises were conducted as twenty-two (22) cadets were not able to join the June 12 graduation rites as they have served as volunteers to assist in the Mega Swabbing facility at Philippine Arena, Bulacan. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Guest of Honor and Speaker, provided his message to the graduates through a video message. Accordingly, Vice Admiral George Ursabia Jr, Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard graced the latter ceremony as twelve (12) PCG scholars took oath as new members of the country’s coast guard. Although a close ceremony attended only by key officials, PMMA Superintendent Commodore Joel Y Abutal thanked all faculty and staff who have worked hard to assist the graduates with the PMMA Learning Management System and Google Classroom. This shows that PMMA is truly committed to the cadets’ academic completion without interruption due to COVID-19 restrictions. Accordingly, the cadets’ understanding with regards to their confinement in the academy is proof that they can withstand the challenges of life even at sea. Congratulations, MASAKBAYAN CLASS of 2020!