Herma Group’s ship comes in

The world-class capability of the Filipino became very evident during the recent launch of M/Tkr Matapat, the newest internationally-classed petroleum tanker to join the fleet of Herma Group. Built by Herma Shipyard Inc. for sister company Herma Shipping and Transport Corp., M/Tkr Matapat will be utilized for the transport of petroleum products all over the country.

No less than Vice President Jejomar Binay graced the milestone event, along with members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, businessmen, maritime industry players and foreign guests from Korea, The Netherlands and Hong Kong flying in for the occasion.

As Herma Group CEO and chairman Hermie Esguerra noted in his speech, the launch was a celebration of the Filipino spirit  and a resounding message to the rest of the world that yes, the Filipino can! After all, the Herma Group could just as easily have procured a tanker from abroad, yet the company opted to build M/Tkr Matapat utilizing the talent of over 1,000 shipbuilding experts in 25 different areas of specialization, and taking over 570,000 man hours.

The result: an internationally-classed A1 oil carrier certified by the American Bureau of Shipping with the following dimensions: 86.1 meters long, 13.720 meters in breadth and 5,000 meters deep, specifically designed for the unique conditions of Philippine waters.  As Esguerra noted, the vessel was built by Filipinos — from the welders to the engineers, to the naval architects and staff — for Filipinos.

Esguerra is upbeat about the future for the local shipbuilding industry. “M/Tkr Matapat is more than just a ship. She is a symbol of hope for Filipinos,” he said. He also noted that the industry can provide work for Filipino shipyard workers, providing a clear choice of employment right here in this country, able to earn a living while still enjoying the love and presence of their family.