A Journey Toward Leadership in Training & Development

What inspired Capt. Bong to pursue a career in training and development and eventually lead as a Training Director becomes a story of unexpected discovery.

I didn’t plan to enter training and development, but I’ve always aimed to succeed beyond my life at sea. Wanting to be present for my family led me ashore, where I discovered a passion for developing people. The leadership and mentoring skills I gained as a Master Mariner naturally guided me toward this path. Today, as a Training Director, I find purpose in shaping others to grow, perform, and lead.

The path toward leadership is rarely linear—it is shaped by purpose, experience, and a deep commitment to people.

Keeping Training Relevant in a Fast-Changing Maritime World

Capt. Bong emphasized that relevance is not a one-time effort but a continuous commitment.

At NTC, our mantra is ‘We stand for excellence’ and that drives everything we do. In an industry that evolves rapidly, staying relevant means never becoming complacent. We continuously anticipate changes in technology, regulations, and seafarer competencies, and adapt our training programs accordingly. It’s a challenge, but one we embrace proudly, because being ‘ahead of the game’ is not just our goal; it’s our standard. That’s what being NTC means.

Leadership Lessons Forged Through Experience

According to Capt. Bong, true leadership is proven not by position, but by presence.

One key leadership lesson I’ve learned as a Training Director is the importance of presence. I’m inspired by the words of this famous lady that I love, ‘The number one ingredient aside from character is you show up in the most difficult times. If you don’t show up in the most difficult times, you are not a leader.’True leadership means standing with your team, not only when things are going well but especially when challenges arise. That’s the kind of leadership I strive to live by, being there for my team, guiding, supporting, and growing with them through both good and difficult times.”

Guidance for Future Leaders in Training

We asked Capt. Bong what advice would he give to aspiring training leaders and his answer transforms into a heartfelt message to the next generation as he highlighted that genuine leadership begins with humility.

My advice to aspiring training leaders is to stay grounded and never forget your humble beginnings. Remember what it felt like to start—the challenges, the learning, and the mentors who helped you along the way. Those experiences keep you connected and authentic. As you grow, let humility and empathy guide how you lead and develop others. I have little compassion for entitlement or arrogance; leadership is not about feeling superior, but about serving with integrity, respect, and a genuine desire to uplift others. That’s how you make a meaningful and lasting impact.”

The Future of Maritime and Technical Training

Capt. Bong shared that progress in the industry must be matched by progress in training.

“As long as ships are sailing, training will always be needed. But to stay relevant, we must evolve, embracing digitalization, automation, and sustainability. At NTC, we stand for excellence by continuously adapting and preparing seafarers for the future.”

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Maritime Leaders Gear Up as Maritime Cyber Security Conference Begins in Manila
April 15, 2026

Maritime Leaders Gear Up as Maritime Cyber Security Conference Begins in Manila

The Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026 officially opens today in Manila, where senior leaders from the maritime industry and the cybersecurity community are expected to gather, collaborate, and exchange insights on addressing emerging cyber threats in an increasingly digitalized maritime sector. Taking place on 15–16 April 2026 at SEDA Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, the conference is jointly organized by the Norwegian Training Center in Manila, the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, the Nordic Maritime Cyber Resilience Centre (NORMA Cyber), and the Philippine Norwegian Business Council.

With the global maritime sector becoming increasingly digitalized, the conference aims to strengthen cooperation among governments, maritime organizations, and cybersecurity experts in addressing emerging cyber risks and safeguarding critical maritime infrastructure.

Among those expected to attend is H.E. Christian Halaas Lyster, Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau, alongside key representatives from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), including Engr. Gladys De Ocampo, and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), led by Administrator Sonia Malaluan.

The conference will also bring together representatives from national and international organizations such as NORMA Cyber, the National Security Council, the Norwegian Coastal Administration, the Norwegian Maritime Authority, and the Philippine Coast Guard. Diplomatic missions including the UK, Danish, Belgian, and Philippine embassies in Norway are likewise expected to participate, highlighting the global dimension of maritime cybersecurity challenges.

A strong presence from the private sector further reflects the industry-wide commitment to cyber resilience. Major maritime companies and organizations such as Odfjell SE, OSM Thome, BW Group, Höegh Autoliners, Kongsberg Maritime, Maersk Filipinas Crewing Inc., NYK-FIL Ship Management, and Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Manning Inc. are among the many participants. Training institutions, academic organizations, and media partners—including Lyceum of the Philippines University, DMMA College of Southern Philippines, The Manila Times, and Portcalls—are also in attendance.

As the conference gets underway, participants are expected to engage in discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing cyber resilience across the maritime sector. With a diverse lineup of stakeholders now assembled, the Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026 is poised to serve as a vital platform for strengthening partnerships and shaping the future of maritime cybersecurity.

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Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026 to Convene Global Maritime Leaders in Manila
March 17, 2026

Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026 to Convene Global Maritime Leaders in Manila

Senior leaders from the maritime industry, and the cybersecurity community will gather in Manila for the Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026, taking place on 15–16 April 2026 at SEDA Hotel in Bonifacio Global City.

The event is jointly organized by the Norwegian Training Center in Manila, the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, the Nordic Maritime Cyber Resilience Centre (NORMA Cyber), and the Philippine Norwegian Business Council.

The conference will host distinguished speakers, government and maritime leaders, providing a strategic platform to examine cybersecurity risks and resilience across global shipping and maritime operations.

A Strategic Dialogue on Maritime Cybersecurity

As digital technologies continue to transform maritime operations from vessel connectivity to advanced automation the need to strengthen cyber resilience across the industry has become increasingly important.

The conference aims to facilitate strategic dialogue among maritime leaders, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals, focusing on shared challenges and the importance of collaboration in safeguarding maritime systems and supply chains.

The Philippines and Norway share a long-standing maritime partnership built on cooperation in seafarer development, maritime safety, and industry innovation. The conference reflects this continued commitment to strengthening collaboration between the two nations and the broader maritime community.

A Two-Day Program for Industry Leaders and Practitioners

The first day of the event, on 15 April, will feature a conference bringing together senior executives, government representatives, Chief Information Security Officers, and industry experts. The program will include keynote addresses and panel discussions led by prominent voices from government and the maritime sector.

On 16 April, the program will continue with specialized workshops designed for cybersecurity practitioners, vessel officers, and professionals involved in maritime training and operations. These sessions will explore both technical and operational aspects of maritime cybersecurity in a more interactive format.

A Platform for Partnership and Collaboration

The Maritime Cyber Security Conference 2026 aims to strengthen cooperation between governments, maritime organizations, and cybersecurity experts in addressing emerging risks in an increasingly digitalized industry.

By bringing together key stakeholders from across the maritime ecosystem, the event seeks to foster dialogue, promote knowledge exchange, and support the continued development of resilient maritime operations.

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Stay Alert: Beware of Suspicious Accounts
March 12, 2026

Stay Alert: Beware of Suspicious Accounts

Norwegian Training Center has recently identified a fraudulent Telegram account online impersonating our organization. The account is not affiliated with Norwegian Training Center and may attempt to mislead individuals or solicit personal or financial information under false pretenses.

For your protection, we strongly advise the public not to interact, transact, or share any personal, sensitive, or financial information with suspicious accounts claiming to represent Norwegian Training Center. We have already reported the fraudulent account to the appropriate authorities and are actively coordinating with them to have it removed as soon as possible.

To ensure your safety, please communicate and transact only through our official channels. Our official website is https://ntcm.com.ph/, and our verified email address is sales@ntcm.com.ph. Any legitimate communication from Norwegian Training Center will only come from these authorized platforms.

If you encounter any suspicious accounts or profiles claiming to represent Norwegian Training Center, we encourage you to report the account directly on the platform where it appears and notify our official page so that we can take appropriate action.

We appreciate your vigilance and cooperation in helping protect our community. Staying informed and cautious online helps prevent fraud and ensures a safer environment for everyone.

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