For the first time, UMTC opened its doors to a different kind of gathering, one built not only on fun and friendly competition, but on connection, shared purpose, and meaningful impact. Strikes Forward: A Night of Purpose and Fun brought together our valued partners for an evening where every ball rolled, every arrow released, and every shot taken contributed to a bigger mission: advancing education and supporting environmental sustainability.
Through this initiative, every earned point became a step forward for our three beneficiaries—San Crispin Elementary School, Grant Institute of Technology, and the GMA Kapuso Foundation. This was an event where camaraderie met advocacy, and where partnership took center stage with deeper intention.
A Purpose Embraced from the Start
The enthusiasm was evident long before event day. The moment our partners received their invitation to “play for a purpose,” registrations came in quickly and sincerely. It was clear they were joining not just for the games but because our partners believed in the cause.
On November 13, 2025, at Enter10 McKinley in Taguig, the venue was filled to the brim. The energy was high, the genuine laughter, and the unmistakable spirit of unity.
A Night Opened with Connection and Vision
The evening formally began with a welcome message and toast from our President, Tony Galvez, who highlighted that this year, UMTC chose a different path for its annual gathering-one that shows who we truly are as an organization: dynamic, connected, and rooted in meaningful partnerships. He emphasized that we are more than colleagues in the maritime industry; we are partners aligned in a shared mission.
This was followed by a message and presentation from our Managing
Director, Donald Bautista, who showcased UMTC’s 2025 milestones,
innovations, and developments, as well as our continued commitment to
excellence in maritime training. He also shared how UMTC has extended its
impact beyond training- through CSR initiatives that uplift communities and
advance sustainable development. All these achievements, he highlighted, were
made possible through the support and trust of our partners.
Game On: Playing with Purpose
When the three teams learned about the beneficiaries they were representing:
Red Team for Grant Institute of Trade and Technology,
Blue Team for San Crispin Elementary School, and
White Team for GMA Kapuso Foundation,
— everyone’s excitement doubled. Suddenly, every strike, every shot, and every win carried a deeper meaning.
Across bowling lanes, billiard tables, archery stations, and even side amenities like darts, karaoke, and shooting games, our partners were fully engaged. The entire venue was alive with cheerful competition, loud cheers, teamwork, and moments of bonding that made everyone feel more connected, not only to the UMTC family but to each other.
A Night of Talent, Music, and Shared Joy
Adding color and energy to the night was an exceptional band performance led by our Managing Director himself. His powerful showcase of musical talent ignited even more enthusiasm, encouraging guests to join him onstage. Friendly performances and even spontaneous prizes turned the evening into a celebration of confidence and community.
And to add even more excitement, the evening was energized with raffle draws throughout the program, bringing moments of surprise, shared smiles, and friendly anticipation among our guests.
The Winning Strikes for a Cause
As scores were tallied, the excitement shifted to the awarding ceremony, where every winning team gained not just recognition but the privilege of advancing the cause of their beneficiary.
· 2nd Runner-Up – White Team: GMA Kapuso Foundation
Accepted by Ms. Rikki Escudero-Catibog, EVP, who shared that their prize of ₱50,000 would help fund the Foundation’s Earthquake-Resilient Classroom projects nationwide.
· 1st Runner-Up – Red Team: Grant Institute of Trade and Technology
Received by Dr. Ruel Reyes, President and staff, who will be channeling the prize of ₱75,000 to grant more scholarships for future professionals in the school.
- Champion – Blue Team: San Crispin Elementary School
Received by the school’s faculty members, this ₱100,000 prize will be used to purchase an emergency bag kit for over 500 students and to build a roofed area for the school’s feeding station.
The joy on the players’ faces said it all. More than pride
in winning, it was the fulfillment of contributing to something bigger than
themselves that made the victory meaningful.
Closing the Night with Gratitude
Before the night concluded, our Sales and Business Devt. Manager
Judie Kallio expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the event a
success. The room was filled with a shared sense of achievement—because this
night truly hit the mark. It strengthened partnerships, uplifted
communities, and showcased the spirit that drives the maritime sector forward.
More Than Partners
Strikes Forward was more than an event. It was a symbol of belonging. A reminder that the people we call partners are, in many ways, part of the UMTC family. And through unity, enjoyment, and purpose, we continue to move forward- together.
