NordCham Philippines Joins Norwegian Training Center’s 35th Anniversary Conference on Maritime Excellence

NordCham Philippines had the honor of attending the 35th Anniversary Conference of the Norwegian Training Center (NTC), a significant milestone celebrating 35 years of dedication to maritime training and excellence. Held on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at The Peninsula Manila, the event brought together maritime leaders, government officials, academics, and industry stakeholders to explore the evolving landscape of global shipping, security, and workforce development.

The event was hosted by Ms. Cathy Yang, Host & News Anchor, who also moderated the panel discussions throughout the day. The program began with a welcome address from Captain Jo Even Tomren, Chief Executive Officer of the Norwegian Training Center, followed by opening remarks from H.E. Christian Halaas Lyster, Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Embassy. Keynote addresses were delivered by Hon. Vince Dizon, Secretary of the Department of Transportation, who spoke on strengthening global maritime partnerships and advancing sustainable shipping and workforce development, and Hon. Hans Leo Cacdac, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers, who emphasized the strategic role of Filipino seafarers in a dynamic security landscape.

The first session, “Navigating Security in a Divided World: Building Resilience Amid Global Fragmentation,” featured BG Gjermund Eide (ret.), former Military Advisor to the Secretary-General of NATO, and Professor Charmaine Willoughby of De La Salle University. A panel discussion followed, moderated by Ms. Cathy Yang, with panelists Mr. Harald Fotland, Professor Victor Andres C. Manhit, BG Gjermund Eide, and Professor Charmaine Willoughby.

The second session, “People at the Helm: Talent and Technology,” was led by Mr. Gerardo Borromeo and featured a panel discussion moderated by Ms. Cathy Yang. Speakers included Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., Mr. Matthew Duke, Ms. Julia Anastasiou, and Captain Jo Even Tomren.

Representing NordCham Philippines at the conference was James Reyes, Marketing Officer. As an attendee, he joined a distinguished lineup of guests and participants for a full day of insightful discussions and thought leadership on the future of the maritime industry.

NordCham Philippines congratulates the Norwegian Training Center on this important milestone. We commend NTC’s continued leadership in maritime education and look forward to more opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the years ahead.