The Filipino Federation of Aikido Teams Up With the Norwegian Training Center

The Filipino Federation of Aikido (FFA) has entered into a historic partnership with the Norwegian Training Center (NTC) in the Philippines to provide a tailored Aikido training program for the Norwegian Shipowners' Association (NSA) cadetship program.

The program, designed in accordance with the standards of the Aikikai Foundation in Japan, will be implemented at NTC's three locations: Lyceum of the Philippines University in Batangas, University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue in Cebu, and DMMA College of Southern Philippines in Davao.

The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by representatives from both organizations.

Representing the FFA were Royce Reyes (7th dan Aikikai) and "Billy" de Leon (6th dan Aikikai) from the Makati Aikido Club (MAC), who signed on July 28, 2025; Ma. Lourdes "Marielle" Macapawa (7th dan Aikikai) from Kannagara Dojo of Davao, who signed on August 8, 2025; and Benson Rafanan (6th dan Aikikai) from Aikido in Cebu — Sacred Heart Aikido Center Cebu (SHACC), who signed on July 26, 2025.

Representing the NSA and NTC were Captain Knut Bentzrod, Chief Operating Officer, and Larry Gonzales, NSA Cadet Manager.

This collaboration aims to integrate Aikido's principles of discipline, focus, and physical fitness into the training of NSA female cadets as a start, enhancing their personal development and professional readiness.

The program is expected to commence soon, with tailored sessions designed to meet the specific needs of cadets at each NTC/NSA location. This partnership marks a significant step in fostering cross-cultural collaboration and promoting Aikido as a tool for holistic training within the maritime industry.