The Women’s International Shipping and Trade Association (WISTA) Philippines Chapter recently inducted its first set of officers with Cristina Oben-Nazareno of Wallem Philippines as President. The induction ceremony held at the G Hotel in Manila saw several women executives and known shipping personalities gracing the affair led by Aida Dizon, Finance Manager of the Philippine Ports Authority and Atty. Brenda Pimentel, IMO Regional Coordinator in Asia who was also the inducting officer.

In her speech, Mrs. Nazareno said that trying to excel in an industry dominated by men is quite a challenge. She pointed out, “The challenge to succeed is formidable. More and more women are now engaged in the shipping business, both as company executives and even as seafarers’: Thus, the need to be organized. WISTA Philippines provide the women in the shipping and related trades the opportunity to prepare for the future.

WISTA Philippines, Inc. is a non-stock and non-profit association, which saw the light of day, so to speak, as a corporation on June 15, 2007 with 15 members. It was principally organized to promote the continuing education and networking of the members who are women involved in maritime transportation business and related trades worldwide. It aims to support and facilitate the exchange of contacts among its members and to serve as a center for information exchange not only among its members but also with other related institutions. WISTA Philippines intends to advance and promote the cause of women in shipping and other related trades to enable them to achieve their fullest potential.