First up was a dinner banquet, where guests were seen engaging in conversations and networking. There was boisterous cheering when it was time to honour 100 Filipino cadet graduates from the Wavelink CadetsPlus Programme. Brother Yong Soon Huat presented special awards to cadets voted for being the Most Outstanding, Best Leadership and Best Academic. Cadet Balio, Marve Jude H. from Alfa Ship Managers spoke about the shared experiences among the cadets who had spent the past three weeks together at NYK-TDG Maritime Academy in Calamba, Laguna.

The heartwarming Wavelink CadetPlus graduation was celebrated in tandem with SMOU Manila Nite which featured fringe activities that included a photo wall, 3D SMOU display, claw machines and coconut stations; show-stopping performances by the cadets, games and song performances. Emcee Ms Karen anchored the event with her fun stage presence and the Circa Live Band stirred up the crowd with their captivating song performance. In the games segment led by the emcee, the GOH Constance See, let her hair down and sportingly participated in them, which led her to win one of the games.

A delicious spread of local cuisine kept the crowd in high spirits throughout the night. Table draw prizes were presented by Mr Raymond Democrito C Mendoza, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, President of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines. The top 10 Seafarers’ Draw Prizes created a buzz of excitement among attendees as Dr Conrad Oca, President of AMOSUP drew the winning numbers and presented the prizes.

With all that double celebration going on, the SMOU Manila Nite and Wavelink CadetsPlus Graduation is truly a highlight event of the year for SMOU Filipino members.