The event marked another milestone in the company’s mission to elevate Philippine-made maritime vessels to international standards.
Attended by key industry partners—including Pioneer Insurance, Metropolitan Bank of the Philippines, and representatives from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)—the launch highlights HSI’s growing footprint in high-quality shipbuilding.
Locally built, globally certified
With an overall length of 86.10 meters and a capacity of 18,000 barrels, M/Tkr Malawig is engineered for performance, safety, and sustainability. It also includes slop tanks, fresh water, ballast, and fuel oil tanks, designed to meet the diverse needs of the petroleum transport sector.
The vessel is classified by ABS, a member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), underscoring Herma’s commitment to global safety and environmental standards. The M/Tkr Malawig also complies with regulations set by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in the Philippines.
M/Tkr Malawig will be operated by Herma Shipping and Transport Corp. (HSTC), addressing the increasing demand for modern petroleum transport solutions nationwide. The launch follows the recent delivery of two 12MB tankers, M/Tkr Mayabong and M/Tkr Maginoo, capable of transporting three petroleum grades at once.
Expanding fleet
Another 18MB tanker is expected to be launched by HSI in July, further strengthening HSTC’s growing fleet.
“Malawig means ‘Malalim at Malawak.’ Sa HSI, malalim sa dedikasyon at malawak sa kaalaman,” said Herminio S. Esguerra, founder and chair of The Herma Group. ((Malawig means 'Deep and Wide.' At HSI, we are deep in dedication and wide in knowledge)
“This is a result of sweat, perseverance, and Filipino excellence—a triumph not just for maritime, but for the nation,” Esquerra said.
Founded in 1985, The Herma Group has evolved from a single-barge operation to a diversified conglomerate with eight member-companies engaged in shipbuilding, marine logistics, environmental services, petroleum operations, agribusiness, and property development.
Herma Shipyard can accommodate at least 32 vessels annually for ship repair and overhauling. As of 2024, according to its website, it has built 11 double-bottomed, double-hulled tankers for major oil companies.
Now celebrating 40 years, Herma remains committed to its values of excellence, enterprise, and nation-building—anchored by its #BuiltToLast philosophy. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
