VIKING Cruises has partnered with the Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (Mihca) to launch a new scholarship program aimed at preparing Filipino hospitality professionals for careers in the global cruise industry.
The agreement, which establishes a structured scholarship-to-employment pathway, was formalized during a signing ceremony on May 7 at Mihca’s Illumine Restaurant in Ermita, Manila.
Under the initiative, scholars will undergo specialized training at Mihca in culinary arts, food and beverage service, or housekeeping. Upon successful completion of the training and meeting the cruise line’s screening and hiring standards, graduates will be positioned for potential deployment with Viking Cruises.
Stewart Coote, vice president for crew operations at Viking Cruises, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to expanding opportunities for aspiring hospitality and maritime professionals, particularly those facing financial barriers.
“We are creating pathways of opportunity for the families of existing Viking crew members and for aspiring individuals who may not otherwise have the financial resources to pursue careers in hospitality or maritime service,” Coote said. “These partnerships are more than training programs. They are gateways to long-term careers, economic opportunity, and brighter futures.”
To qualify for deployment, applicants must complete their chosen Mihca program and meet specific criteria, including relevant educational or hospitality experience, English proficiency, physical readiness for overseas deployment, and a demonstrated commitment to the cruise industry.
Chef Paolo Santino Guevara, president of Mihca, said the partnership aligns with the institution’s vision of developing future professionals through industry-standard education.
“The partnership reflects a shared vision of empowering and developing future hospitality professionals through industry-aligned education and training,” Guevara said, noting that the collaboration provides clearer career paths for Filipino talent.
The signing ceremony was also attended by Nori Leonidas, cruise group head for Magsaysay Maritime Corp. (MMC); Katherine Baladiang, fleet HR manager for MMC; and members of the Mihca management team.
Mihca, a member of the Magsaysay Group, operates training facilities in Manila, Mandaluyong, Cebu, and Jakarta, Indonesia. Its parent company, Magsaysay Maritime Corporation, is a Manila-based crew provider for the global merchant marine and cruise industries. Viking Cruises, founded in 1997, operates a fleet of more than 90 river, ocean, and expedition vessels globally.