Aboitiz Foundation, Abojeb, Philippine Red Cross partner for the country’s first humanitarian vessel
M/V Amazing Grace, the country’s first and only humanitarian vessel is now ready to set sail through the partnership of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), the Aboitiz Foundation, and Abojeb Company. This 195-foot military prototype, multi-role vessel can function as a rapid transport, mobile command center, cargo transport vessel, an ambulance, and disaster response ship, capable of holding up to 120 passengers and 20 vehicles.
The Aboitiz Foundation supports M/V Amazing Grace through the ship management services of Abojeb, which includes ensuring the efficiency of the vessel, arranging for maintenance and repair, assigning technical consultants, and developing and implementing a safety management system.
Today, with the deployment of this humanitarian ship, delays in emergency response due to impassable roads and difficulties with airports and seaports are responded to. M/V Amazing Grace makes quick humanitarian relief, sea rescue, and mass evacuation by Red Cross’ emergency units possible.
“We in Philippine Red Cross are grateful to seal this partnership with the Aboitiz Foundation and Aboitiz Jebsen. We deeply value this as this partnership means more lives secured in times of disasters,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon during the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement.
“This partnership with the Philippine Red Cross is aligned with our commitment to continuously challenge our CSR programs and strive to make a more meaningful social impact through our collective efforts. Our engagement for the country’s first humanitarian vessel is a testament that we are inspired to do our significant best to make our communities safe and well-prepared,” Chairman of the Aboitiz Foundation Board of Trustees Erramon Aboitiz said.
“We are honored to take part in this unique project. Abojeb contributes maritime expertise. This will enable the efficient delivery of the Red Cross’ humanitarian response in times of need,” added Carl Martin Faannessen, Managing Director of Abojeb Company, Inc.
