United Marine Training Center (UMTC) has broken ground on the United Marine Green Energy Center (UM-GEC), a new facility aimed
United Marine Training Center (UMTC) has broken ground on the United Marine Green Energy Center (UM-GEC), a new facility aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ capacity to train seafarers for vessels powered by alternative fuels.
The center is a joint initiative between UMTC, Green Marine and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), with financial support from the International Maritime Training Fund (IMTF), an initiative of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) and the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC).
The facility is being developed in response to the maritime industry’s shift towards new fuel technologies and next-generation vessels. It will provide specialized training for seafarers preparing to work with alternative-fuel systems and operations.
Rather than functioning solely as a simulator-based training facility, the Green Energy Center is designed as an onboard-style training environment. Its systems and equipment will replicate, as closely as possible, the conditions and operational requirements seafarers are expected to encounter aboard modern vessels.
Equipment is being sourced from suppliers serving the shipbuilding and vessel industries, further emphasizing the center’s focus on practical, hands-on training.
Training designed for real-world operations
Green Marine in cooperation with UMTC, drawing on its expertise in alternative-fuel vessel operations. UMTC support preparation of the training facility and resources needed for practical implementation.
The program emphasizes practical and scenario-based learning, giving seafarers opportunities to become familiar with vessel environments, systems, equipment, operational procedures, and appropriate emergency responses under controlled conditions.
MARINA has been deeply engaged in a comprehensive review of the course, playing a pivotal role in shaping a robust training framework that meets essential requirements and adapts to the dynamic competence needs of Filipino seafarers.
A joint response to a changing industry
The Green Energy Center represents a shared effort to ensure that Filipino seafarers are prepared as vessel technologies and fuel systems continue to evolve.
Under the leadership of President Tony Galvez, UMTC has supported the development of the project as part of its commitment to investing in future-ready maritime training. Managing Director Donald Bautista has steered the project’s strategic direction, while Training Director Roy Akker and the training team have supported the program’s implementation and practical requirements.
As construction moves forward, UMTC will continue working with its partners, shipowners, principals, maritime organizations, and other industry stakeholders to support the development of training solutions for the evolving needs of modern shipping.
The Green Energy Center is ultimately an investment in people as much as in infrastructure—preparing the workforce that will operate and safely navigate the vessels of the future.
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