Multi-colored streamers litter the floor, empty wine glasses on top of gold-covered cocktail tables amidst mini-bouquets of red-roses. The remnants of the party, sitting around laughing, heels kicked off, are testament to the fact that it was a good night. The scene from late Tuesday, June 17, could have been like any other hotel event at the Mandarin Oriental’s posh Captain’s Bar, save for the looming picture of a lone ship in the background of the stage — an impressive reminder of a night that was nothing short of momentous.
The Herma Group spared nothing to launch the M/T MATIKAS, the first Filipino-built internationally classed double hull, double bottom tanker. With a free-flowing bar and cocktail buffet, a performance by Geneva Cruz, and hard-cracking humor from host Johnny Litton, guests including former President Fidel V. Ramos, Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Leandro R. Mendoza, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Peter B. Favila, Petron President Kamal M. Al-Yahya, and other ranking government officials, business partners from the banking sector, and top executives of Petron Corporation, were treated with an enjoyable night. The real cause for celebration was given center stage however, and throughout the festivities, guests were still well aware of the historical and significant reason for the event.
After opening remarks by host Johnny Litton, the program started with Herma Shipping and Transport Corporation (HSTC) President Enrico C. Cavestany giving a warm introduction to Chairman and CEO of the Herma Group, Herminio S. Esguerra. Mr. Cavestany’s introduction was simple yet straight to the point, focusing on Esguerra’s genuine desire to “give back” to the country.
Esguerra then gave a hard-hitting speech talking about the inspiring journey of M/T MATIKAS, and how the true cause for the night’s celebration was the Filipino people. “I could not help but wonder if all these publicity and fan fare are still necessary. M/T MATIKAS has already been launched and had underwent sea trial”, Esguerra started, “Be that as it may, there are reasons to celebrate. M/T MATIKAS is the first Filipino-built internationally classed double hull tanker. It represents the Philippines’ ambitious foray into the international market for tanker construction.” Esguerra then mentioned that it was his travels to other shipbuilding countries and meeting with Filipino shipbuilders abroad that drove him to “dare to dream” to achieve this tangible million symbol of “the Philippines’ entry into the international market for tanker construction.” The speech ended with the Chairman’s inspiring adage for the night – “Dare to dream, kaya natin ‘to.”
An impressive AVP production followed the speeches that took the guests through the journey of the M/T MATIKAS. The short film was an inspiring walk through the step-by-step realization of Esguerra’s vision. A picture of the M/T Matikas was also unveiled in the background, amidst toasting and fanfare. Former President Fidel V. Ramos gave his remarks on the event, saying that this was in line with his vision of progress for the Filipinos.
After the entertainment, raffle-draw, and more food and drinks, the night that launched the M/T MATIKAS ended on a high and inspiring note. The journey towards the future of Philippine Shipbuilding however, has only just begun.
