University of Cebu

Another accomplished UC alumnus has just visited UC recently.

Capt. Walter Palomar, accompanied by his wife Maybelle and his friend Francis Fulache, made a courtesy call to UC President Atty. Augusto W. Go on January 23, 2008.

The quiet man of Class ’77 strode into the administration office, while continuously expressing his gratitude to his alma mater.

“In my line of work, when you say you’re a UC graduate, employers would automatically know your work ethics because they are aware of the rigorous training you’ve undergone while in school,” he said.

In an affable mood, he talked of his alma mater, formerly known as CCC.

“We used to ride the Tartanilla around there,” he said, motioning to the thoroughfare that is now Osmeña Boulevard. “I also remember seeing Atty. Go walking around the campus and checking the classrooms,” he added.

After he earned his diploma as an Associate in Nautical Studies, he apprenticed for two years under the Japanese shipping principal, K-Line. From then on, his ascent to the top was unstoppable.

In 1980, he took the board exam for Third Mate and passed. With his new credential, he was able to use his new license for his next contract.

The following year, 1981, he passed the exams for the Second Mate license and was able to use it during his next sea trip.

In 1982 he earned his Chief Mate license. He was given the chance to use the license by his employer but it was only in 1988 when he accepted the challenge.

“I asked them to give me more time to gain experience because maneuvering a big vessel which sails overseas can be tough,” he said.

In 1989 he tried his hand with European vessels, particularly German.

In 1993, a British Captain gave him an excellent rating while recommending him to be the Master (Mariner).

“I was really surprised, especially since the British are known to be keen and strict observers,” he beamed. He was then with the manning agency, Career Shipmanagement which asked him if he could be the Master. He obliged and was automatically given the task in 1995.

With his outstanding work record, he was able to bring his wife with him to the vessel, twice.

Presently, he signs on with a Greek company, All Seas Marine. With all- expenses paid for, he will visit the main office for work familiarization, before embarkation. As a Master Mariner he will be receiving a monthly pay of ,000 USD.

“I felt fortunate to have heeded to my father’s friend’s suggestion. He gave me the idea to take up Nautical,” he confesses. He also admits the brief, two-year Associate program started him in the right direction.

Even with his success, Capt. Palomar still keeps fond memories of his alma mater during his college days. Some of his favorite teachers include Capt. Cabatingan (Navigation), Capt. Veloso (Navigtion), Capt. Bullecer (Seamanship), Capt. Alba (the Dean), Mrs. Nolasco (English), Mr. Alesna (Meteorology and Oceanography) and Mr. Marcial Chiu (Psychology). “I still remember Mr. Chiu’s comment on my test paper because I didn’t prepare much for that exam,” he recalls of his Psychology subject Instructor.

The family man with two sons exemplifies humility even with all his laurels.

“I feel blessed that the company trusted me,” he said. He credits the discipline, and the education he received from UC as the integral part of the building blocks of his triumph.