05/08/2026
The Norwegian Training Center / Norwegian Shipowners' Association (NTC/NSA) officially relaunched its Aikido training program for cadets at the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM) campus on Tuesday evening, Aug. 4, 2026.
The program is made possible through the partnership of NTC/NSA, the Filipino Federation of Aikido (FFA), with Sacred Heart Aikido Center Cebu (SHACC) serving as the federation's official training provider in Cebu, and UCLM.
Designed to help prepare future seafarers for the demands of the maritime industry, the training places special emphasis on building confidence, discipline, situational awareness, and practical self-defense skillsβparticularly among women cadets.
During the relaunch, SHACC members led by Benson Rafanan Sensei demonstrated the fundamental Aikido techniques that the cadets will learn throughout the year. They also showcased advanced techniques and ukemi (safe falling methods) to give the cadets a glimpse of what can be achieved through consistent training and dedication.
We extend our sincere gratitude to NTC/NSA for once again placing its trust in the FFA and SHACC to help develop not only capable cadets, but also disciplined, resilient, and future-ready maritime professionals.
Special thanks to Mr. Larry Gonzales, NSA Cadet Manager; Ms. Nova Erika Mae Ramos-Modelo, NSA Cadet and Documentation Officer; Engr. Jemmalyn Quiapo, NSA Training and Development Officer; and Ms. Rosalie Mongcal, UCLM-NSA Admin Coordinator, for their administrative leadership and executive backing.
We look forward to another year of empowering cadets through Aikidoβinstilling discipline, resilience, and the mindset needed to thrive both at sea and in life.