Today
KMA continues to be the trusted crewing partner of Klaveness Combination Carrier (KCC) in the Philippines, dedicated to nurturing its most valuable asset – its seafarers. Now integrated with OSM Thome (OSMT), a global leader in maritime services, KMA upholds the vision to Lead Excellence at Sea and supports Klaveness’ mission of improving the nature of shipping.
2024
KMA has established itself as a steadfast pillar of strength, successfully navigating the challenges of industry competition, economic downturns, and various adversities over the past four decades. On November 6, 2024, KMA celebrated its 40th anniversary. The event brought together key leaders from Torvald Klaveness, esteemed business partners, and influential industry figures, all of whom emphasized the significance of remarkable milestone and shared their visions for the company’s future.
2017
KMA took over the manning of oil-chemical and bulk vessels of third-party principals, Nordic Maritime Services/Vships and Chellaram Shipping, respectively. For Torvald Klaveness, KMA continued to man the specialized vessels composed of CABU (caustic –alumina bulkers) and containers. With the coming of new principals and significant growth in KSSI operation, where Chona Villanos is also the president, she turned-over the general manager role in KMA to Judith Jarabelo.
2014
KMA changed leadership and governance. KMA also opened doors for the establishment of Klaveness Shore Services Inc (KSSI). Chona Villanos succeeded Victor Del Prado as president and general manager.
2009
KMA marked 25 years in business. This event was celebrated with awarding ceremonies for long serving employees, like Ms. Amanda Uy, who also turned 25th year in KMA.
1997
Denholm Glasgow separated from Klaveness to secure its own manning license. This allowed for incorporation of KMA with Philippines’ Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). KMA was likewise, re-registered in POEA as KMA Inc. Antonio Aguilar became the first president and general manager. Unfortunately, due to sudden demise, Victor Del Prado, who was then operations manager, took over his position.
1994
Thirty Six (36) vessels of Naess Shipping Holland was transferred to DenKlav from Naess Shipping Philippines, together with a handful of office employees. The fleet operations were shared between Denholm’s and Klaveness’ administration. Antonio Aguilar headed the Torvald Klaveness division. DenKlav became known in the manning industry after receiving, in succession, POEA Top Performers Award, the Award of Excellence and the Hall of Fame Award.
1989
KMA, through the support of its principal, Torvald Klaveness AS, was one of the first to have registered and organized an association of wives of its sea staff known as Seamen’s Wives Association of Klaveness (SWAK).
1988
KMA merged with the Denholm Glasgow, where DenKlav Maritime Agency was organized to serve both the crewing needs of Denholm and Torvald Klaveness.
1984
Torvald Klaveness established its own crewing organization in Manila after terminating its contract with Naess Shipping Holland. Crewing license as Klaveness Maritime Agency (KMA) was issued by POEA in July 1984. KMA began to recruit and assign Filipino seafarers from its first office in UPL building, Intramuros, Manila. KMA was then headed by Rolf Brandvold – a Norwegian chief engineer. He was supported by Antonio Aguilar as operations manager and by Amanda Uy as secretary.
1981
Torvald Klaveness entered into an agreement with Naess Holland, and through its ship management in Manila, the first batch of Filipino crew were deployed onboard M/V Bajka.
1970s
Norwegian seafarers’ salaries increased significantly due to pool shortage. This prompted several Norwegian ship owners, like Torvald Klaveness (TK), to look for less expensive man-power. Korean ratings were initially hired in TK’s cargo vessels that traded between US and Far East. After the cargo vessels were sold, TK began considering Filipino seafarers.
