The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) and the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to undertake  a feasibility study for NMP’s proposed Regional Maritime Training Center in Tanza, Cavite.

Leading the signing ceremony were DAP Acting President and CEO Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian and the NMP Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario, joined by officials from both institutions. 

Under the MOA, the DAP will evaluate the technical, financial, economic, institutional, social, and environmental viability of the proposed center and deliver an evidence-based feasibility report with implementation options and recommendations to guide NMP’s next steps. 

This partnership  supports NMP’s mandate to expand access quality maritime training while advancing national priorities on human capital development, regional convergence, and maritime competitiveness. As the country’s National Productivity Organization, the DAP likewise champions initiatives that strengthen workforce capabilities and  drive productivity, innovation, and sustainable development across sectors. 

Once completed, the study is expected to bring future-ready training opportunities closer to seafarers in Luzon and nearby regions, enhance the country’s maritime talent pipeline, and promote  innovation in maritime education and skills development.The agreement was formalized on August 8, 2025 through a virtual signing ceremony.