Distinguished Visit and MOU Signing Mark Milestone at Asian Institute of Maritime Studies
- museomaritimo
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
February 24, 2026 – Pasay City, NCR, Philippines
Article by Anjo C. Undecimo
On 09 February 2026, the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) welcomed distinguished guests from the Poongyang Research Foundation in a significant visit that strengthened international academic and research collaboration. The delegation was led by Professor Kim Myung-Jae, PhD, Chairman of the Poongyang Research Foundation, accompanied by Mr. Rodolfo R. Daiwa.
The delegation was formally received with an Arrival of Honor, led by Dr. Joy M. Garner, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs. The ceremonial welcome was rendered by the CSFD Corps of Midshipmen Officers, under the guidance of the MMCP Coordinator and Drill Master, Mr. Ricky Jay P. Augusto. The arrival ceremony reflected AIMS’ strong maritime tradition, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
Following the ceremony, the guests proceeded to the AIMS Museo Maritimo, one of the institution’s premier cultural and educational landmarks. The delegation was personally accompanied by the AIMS Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Felecito P. Dalaguete.
The comprehensive museum tour was led by Mr. Juan Martin R. Guasch, Dean of the Center for Library, Archives, and Museum Services (CLAMS).
The tour showcased the rich maritime heritage preserved within the Museo Maritimo, highlighting AIMS’ dedication to documenting maritime history, education, and innovation. Joining the tour were key academic leaders, including Dr. Joy M. Garner; Dr. Edgardo P. Geguiento, Dean of the School of Merchant Marine; Capt. Zalvador Z. Ang, Department Head of Marine Transportation; Mr. Oscar R. Relucio, Department Head of Aptitude for Service; and Mr. Anjo C. Undecimo, CLAMS personnel. The delegation expressed keen interest in the museum’s collections, exhibits, and its role in enriching maritime education and institutional identity.
After the Museo Maritimo visit, the delegation continued to the RADAR Rooms, Bridge Simulators, and Engine Simulators, where AIMS’ advanced training facilities were presented. Capt. Antonio Maralli Jr. led the briefing on the sophisticated and modern equipment utilized by the Deck Department, while Engr. Daniel Marfil provided an in-depth explanation of the Engine Department’s state-of-the-art simulation technologies. These facilities demonstrated AIMS’ commitment to producing globally competitive maritime professionals through cutting-edge training systems.
The visit culminated at The Latitude, Deck 11 of the AIMS Tower, where the primary objective of the visit took place—the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony between the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies and the Poongyang Research Foundation. The ceremony was attended by AIMS executives and leaders, headed by CEO Dr. Felecito P. Dalaguete and AIMS President Dr. Arlene Abuid-Paderanga.
The successful signing of the MOU marked a significant step toward future collaboration in research, academic exchange, and institutional development between the two organizations. While the MOU signing was the central purpose of the visit, the meaningful engagement with AIMS Museo Maritimo and the institution’s advanced facilities highlighted AIMS’ holistic approach to maritime education—one that values history, innovation, and global partnership.
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