The Norwegian Training Center (NTC) marked its 35th anniversary on Thursday 24 April 2025 with a conference and celebration at the Peninsula Manila Hotel, highlighting three and a half decades of contributions to maritime training and development in the Philippines.
Since its founding, the NTC has trained thousands of maritime professionals, including more than 6,000 graduates from the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association’s (NSA) Cadet Program, who are now sailing globally as part of the international fleet.
The event featured a one-day conference focused on the future of the maritime industry and the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, climate change, and technological advancement. The discussions were led by prominent figures from both Norway and the Philippines, reinforcing the deep maritime ties between the two nations.
“Never has it been more important to cooperate across the seas to ensure a safe and secure maritime transportation industry,” says NTC Managing Director Captain Joe Even Tomren.
“The Philippines and Norway play a vital role in this work, and the Norwegian Training Center will continue to strive for maritime excellence from the Philippines.”
The conference opened with a focus on the risks of escalating geopolitical tensions and their potential to disrupt global trade. Former NATO military adviser Gjermund Eide and Professor Charmaine Willoughby of De La Salle University discussed regional security challenges, with reactions from NSA President Harald Fotland and Stratbase Group Managing Director Victor Andres Manhit.
“The Philippines and Norway have had a strong maritime partnership for decades,” says Harald Fotland.
“Filipino seafarers make up nearly 65% of the crew in the Norwegian international fleet, and maintaining close dialogue between our countries is crucial, especially in turbulent times.”
A UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) report was cited during the discussions, noting that 80% of global trade volume is carried by sea, underscoring the importance of stable maritime routes for global food security and supply chains.
The latter half of the conference addressed the maritime sector’s future, particularly the need for green technologies and new skills among seafarers. The panel, led by Philippine Transmarine Carriers CEO Gerardo Borromeo, included representatives from the World Maritime University, Bergen Shipowners’ Association, Grieg Maritime Group, OSM Thome, and NTC.
The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) target to reduce CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030 was highlighted as a major challenge, alongside digitalization trends driving demand for advanced maritime expertise.
“The maritime sector is a cornerstone of the Norway-Philippines relationship,” says Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster.
“For 35 years, the Norwegian Training Center has been a key part of this bond, and we remain committed to working with the Philippines to safeguard our shared maritime interests.”
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