QUEZON CITY, Philippines โ Midn 1CL John Emmanuel V. Espiritu of the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) – CGSO Campus earned a spot at the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students of the Philippines (TOMSP) marking excellence at the programโs revival.
The TOMSP Luncheon and Awarding Ceremonies, held at the ALU-APSU-ITF Building in Quezon City on September 28, 2025, gathered maritime leaders, and government representatives, honoring maritime cadets selected from 55 national nominees for academic performance, leadership potential, and impact to society with only 20 finalists.
Other MAAP cadets who earned their place among the Top 20 finalists include 1CL Septian A. Gatto and 2CL Churchly Keith T. Balatian of the IMMAJ campus, as well as 2CL Michaela Grace T. Marimon of the CGSO campus who was recognized for Best Introductory Video, receiving โฑ5,000 from the TOMSP Alumni Sponsors in recognition of her creativity and passion for the maritime field.
From the initial pool of 55 nominees nationwide, 20 finalists were rigorously selected, assessing their academic performance, leadership potential, and impact to society.
When asked what helped 1CL Espiritu stand out in the selection, he shared, โHumility, determination, and faith. My father taught me to stay humbleโachievements should inspire, not be bragged about. Determination reminded me of the sacrifices behind every milestone, and faith in God kept me grounded, knowing everything happens according to His plan.โ
โIt felt like more than a personal winโit was a collective one. The 20 finalists, my family, friends, and everyone who supported me are all part of this achievement. This recognition drives me to inspire and guide other cadets toward their own versions of success,โ 1CL Espiritu furthered, reflecting on his milestone.
1CL Espiritu also credited MAAPโs formative training for shaping his character: โI internalized the Seven Points of a Midshipmanโself-discipline, initiative, time management, stability under pressure, ability to react quickly with good judgment, exemplary appearance and good bearing, and leadership which were taught to us since we were Fourthclassmen. These values guide us not just as cadets, but in every aspect of life.โ
The finalists were conferred a Plaque of Recognition and โฑ3,000 in courtesy of FastCat, alongside various awards and training opportunities such as review package from Cebu Gems, Third Officer Familiarization Course Package from STI Maritime Training Academy, two courses of their choice with complimentary use of dormitory facilities from the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP), and merchandise from The Hood Platform which served as the eventโs Platinum Sponsor.
Moreover, MAAP is recognized as a legacy school which is among the institutions that have consistently produced five or more TOMSP awardees over the past decade, reflecting its fervent participation and determination of midshipmen and midshipwomen towards excellence.
The 2025 revival of the body was convened by the TOMSP Alumni Community and the Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI), in partnership with the Associated Philippine Seafarersโ Union (APSU) and Intership Navigation Training Center (ISNTC). It was further supported by key government and industry institutions, including the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and the Filipino Association for Marinersโ Employment, Inc. (FAME).
Distinguished maritime industry leaders, including Atty. Jerome Pampolina (DMW), Mr. Samuel Batalla (MARINA-STCW Office), Mr. Sabino Czar Cloma Manglicmot II (PAMI), and other esteemed guests delivered messages of inspiration and support for the shared commitment of government, academia, and industry into shaping the new generation of globally competitive maritime professionals.
The TOMSP is a prestigious national recognition program that honors exemplary maritime cadets since its inception in 2011. It has served as a platform for inspiring young mariners to pursue excellence both at sea and onshore.
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