UMTC brought together skilled ship fitters and welding professionals for the second season of the Ship Fitter Competition, spotlighting technical skills, precision, discipline, and composure.
More than a competition, this celebrated the people behind the work—the skilled Ship Fitters whose hands turn technical knowledge into precision workmanship.
Where Skill Meets the Test
From the moment the competition began, focus and determination defined the atmosphere.
After the opening address by UMTC Managing Director Donald Bautista, participants received a supportive message from Marlon Ilagan, Key Account Manager at Wilhelmsen Ships Service, the official partner of UMTC for this event. This was followed by an inspirational message from Roy Akker, the Training Director.
Their messages set the tone for a day centered on professional growth, industry standards, and the importance of continuously developing technical competence.
The competitors then geared up for the competition proper, led by Romel Cabrera, Workshop Section Head, to ensure safety and understanding throughout the event.
For six hours, the workshop became a testing ground for craftsmanship.
Every measurement mattered.
Every fit required precision. Every weld demanded control.
With time and performance on the line, the competitors were challenged to demonstrate not only what they knew, but how effectively they could apply their skills under pressure.
More Than the Finished Work
While the finished output was an important measure of performance, the competition also highlighted the qualities that define a professional craftsman: discipline, attention to detail, safety consciousness, and consistency in one's work.
These qualities are especially important in an industry where technical workmanship can directly affect the quality and reliability of maritime operations.
Excellence provided a space to see, test, and recognize these standards.
Recognizing Excellence
After presenting the outputs, our honorable judges, Galileo Santos, Argie Punay, and Anthony Dalisay, who are experts in this field, deliberated as participants awaited the results of their performance.
The much-anticipated Awarding Ceremony then recognized the competitors who demonstrated outstanding craftsmanship throughout the challenge. (L-R)
- Champion - Ryan Cyril Rafael, Crossworld Marine Services Inc.
- 2nd Placer - Mariel Sandoval
- 3rd Placer - Edward Allan Loteyro, Scanmar Maritime Services Inc.
Winners and all participants demonstrated discipline, experience, and precision.
Building a Culture of Craftsmanship
Training does not end when a course is completed. Skills are strengthened when they are practiced, challenged, and measured against real-world standards.
Through initiatives such as Weld of Excellence, UMTC continues to give skilled professionals opportunities to test their capabilities while fostering a culture that values competence, precision, safety, and continuous improvement.
The event concluded with a closing message from Vera Dadula, Engine Training Department Head, bringing together a day that celebrated not only the competition but the people and skills that made the maritime industry possible.
Forged by Skill. Defined by Excellence.
The sparks may have settled, but the standard remains.
Weld of Excellence 2026 reminded us of that excellence in ship fitting and welding is not achieved by skill alone. It is built through discipline, refined through experience, and proven when the pressure is on.
To every competitor who stepped forward, accepted the challenge, and put their craft on the line—thank you for showing us what you're made of.
