On August 7, 2010, Mr. Arsenio Benjamin E. Santos, a proud graduate of the Ateneo de Manila's B.S. Management Engineering program, Class of 1970, was inducted into the Hall of FAME. His citation read, "For exemplifying the very ideals upon which the Ateneo Management Engineering program was founded, applying specialized education and training in the pursuit of excellence in the many leadership roles he played in the Maritime sector especially in pursuing and obtaining global acceptance for Filipino Seamen as world-class maritime personnel."
Arben was not just a name in the maritime industry; he was a force of innovation, leadership, and change. His journey from a fresh graduate to a pivotal figure in the maritime sector is a testament to his dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Innovation
Arben's career began with Baliwag Navigation Inc. (BNI), a nascent company under the Baliwag Group of Companies. His leadership as Managing Director saw BNI rise to prominence in the local shipping industry. In 1992, he took a bold step and co-founded Southwest Maritime Corporation (SWMC) with minimal funds but a wealth of experience and reputation. SWMC's innovative approach in servicing international shipowners with highly qualified Filipino seamen set new standards in the industry. By 2009, their subsidiary, Southfield Agencies, Inc., was deploying about 1,500 seamen worldwide, a number expected to double within five years. Under Arben's leadership, SWMC expanded into various maritime-related ventures, establishing the Southwest Group of Companies as a key player in the sector.
Setting Higher Standards for Performance
In the early 1990s, Arben's bold initiative to contract the first Filipino-owned LPG vessel with Pilipinas Shell set a new benchmark in the industry. This move, followed by the deployment of four more LPG vessels, demonstrated Arben's belief that Filipinos could compete and excel in maritime operations. SWMC's ship-management company, SWAN Shipping Corporation, elevated safety standards to meet international norms, earning the trust and contracts of both local and foreign oil companies. By 2009, SWAN managed 17 LPG vessels worldwide, all operated by Filipino officers and crew, showcasing the world-class capabilities of Filipino maritime personnel.
Business Leadership
Arben's leadership extended beyond operational excellence. During the mid-2000s, he addressed the shortage of qualified ship officers by recruiting from neighboring Asian countries, ensuring SWMC's leadership in the sector. He also led SWMC into ship-owning, a rare accomplishment in the Philippine maritime industry. Under his guidance, the Southwest Group became one of the few Filipino-owned companies engaged in both seamen recruitment and ship operations, domestically and internationally. SWAN Shipping Corporation stands as the only Filipino-owned corporate ship manager in the country, a testament to Arben's vision and leadership.
Change Agent for Social or Business Transformation
Arben's foresight and aggressiveness led to significant changes in the domestic tanker sector. In 2007, he introduced a newly-built double-hulled oil tanker without a long-term contract, anticipating stricter safety standards and environmental regulations. This move, initially met with skepticism, proved to be a transformative strategy that set new safety benchmarks in the industry. Arben's priority was always the greater good, often placing societal benefits above short-term business gains.
Being a "Man for Others"
Arben's generosity and commitment to social justice were evident throughout his career. He never fired an employee, believing in the potential contributions of every individual. SWMC's investment in a maritime school in Quezon provided opportunities for financially marginalized students to pursue careers in the maritime sector. Arben was also a mentor to many, especially aspiring basketball players from Ateneo, reflecting his own sportsman spirit. His inclusive leadership style fostered a strong sense of partnership and camaraderie within his company.
Arben Santos's legacy is one of exemplary leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions to the maritime industry and his dedication to helping others serve as an inspiration to all. As we remember his achievements, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on an entire industry and beyond.
