#Philippines #Mitsui O.S.K. Lines #Pasay #Museo Del Galeón #Maritime Heritage

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Partners with Museo Del Galeón

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, led by President Tsuyoshi Hashimoto, has officially joined as a Gold Partner in the construction of the Museo Del Galeón, a large maritime museum situated in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines. This innovative initiative marks the first large-scale maritime museum in the country and aims to celebrate the rich maritime heritage of the Philippines, as well as the significant role it has played in global trade.

On November 7, during a sponsorship signing ceremony, MOL's Executive Vice President, Toshinobu Shinoda, signed the agreement with Doris Magsaysay Ho, President of the Museo Del Galeón Foundation, who expressed her gratitude through a commemorative plaque.

The event showcased a re-creation of the galleon ship Espíritu Santo, which sailed in the 17th century, standing as a testament to the historic connection between the Philippines and maritime trade.

The Museo Del Galeón is designed to center around the Galleon Trade, which thrived from the 16th to the 19th century, linking the Philippines to Mexico. It will serve as a significant space to elucidate the contributions the Philippines has made to maritime trade over the years. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, the museum aims to convey the deep bond between Filipino sailors and the sea, ensuring that their achievements are shared with future generations.

Scheduled to open in 2026, the museum will focus on the integral role the Philippines has played in maritime history – from traditional navigation techniques before colonization to modern global shipping featuring Filipino crew members. Spanning an impressive 9,000 square meters, the museum will house immersive displays, including a life-size exhibition of the galleon ship, alongside innovative exhibits that celebrate the enduring connection between the Philippines and the sea.

In his statement regarding this collaboration, Executive Vice President Toshinobu Shinoda highlighted the Philippines' pivotal role in global trade. He noted that approximately 60% of the crew on the company's operating vessels are Filipino, underscoring a long-standing connection, with nearly a century of involvement in the region. He asserted that through this partnership, MOL aims to further strengthen relations with the Philippine maritime industry and promote coexistence within Filipino society.

The company emphasizes education, workforce development, and sustainability, committing to comprehensive initiatives aimed at shaping the future of the maritime industry in the Philippines. MOL continues its long-term investments in bulk transport, environmental sustainability efforts, and the management of dedicated maritime training institutions. Through this collaboration, the company plans to further enhance the promotion of maritime culture and nurture the next generation.

For more comprehensive details regarding the museum, please refer to the link provided: Museo del Galeón.