OREANDA-NEWS. June 22, 2012. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL; President: Koichi Muto) today announced that two of its partner colleges in the Philippines, Bicol Merchant Marine College, Inc. and Holy Cross of Davao College, Inc. have received accreditation under the Institution approval Program of Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). MOL has adopted a cadet training program in the Philippines called 3rd Year Program.

Under the MLIT's approval program, graduates from the schools are exempted from taking exam to receive endorsement which is required to serve as officer aboard Japanese-flagged vessels.

MOL continues to promote the highest standards of education and training of seafarers who play a critical role in ensuring safe operation and protecting the marine environment.

(*) Magsaysay Institute of Shipping (MIS):
 MIS was jointly established by MOL and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation in 1993. The institute provides thorough safety education, various types of practical training, and rule-based training in preparation for serving aboard MOL-operated vessels. Since 2007, MIS has contributed the development and enhancement of maritime education programs, improving students' skills through supplementary lessons, technical support to instructors, and upgrading of maritime curriculum, in collaboration with designated maritime schools in the Philippines.