“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” Michelle Obama’s powerful words resonate deeply with the journey of Precious Joyce Calmada, a Filipina marine engineer whose success transcends traditional boundaries—proving that the strength of a woman knows no limits, on land or at sea.
Precious, 32, from Legazpi City, Albay, is an alumna of the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP). She has forged a path far removed from her childhood dreams, but today she navigates the world with unwavering passion and a growing legacy. She holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking female marine engineer at Compagnie Maritime d’Affrètement Compagnie Générale Maritime (CMA CGM), one of the world’s largest shipping companies.
Her story isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about igniting ambition among women. In 2024, she served as a beacon of excellence and leadership for aspiring seafarers in Myanmar and for high school students embarking on new journeys at her alma mater, Legazpi City Science High School.
Defying Stereotypes
Stepping into the engine department—a space historically dominated by men—Precious inevitably faced skepticism. In her early days as a cadet, questions about a woman’s capability in a physically demanding profession were common.
“What are you doing here?” was a frequent question, often laced with doubt.
But Precious was not one to back down. She knew that words alone wouldn’t prove her worth—action would. She demonstrated that her capabilities went far beyond academics and paperwork. Tightening a 1,000 Newton-meter torque wasn’t just a task for men—it was something a woman could do too.
Her determination wasn’t just about physical strength; it was about competence, discipline, and resolve that defied gender norms. And through it all, she drew strength from those who supported her through turbulent waves—until sailing became calm and fulfilling.
The Engines of Success
Today, as a second engineer, Precious is at the core of her ship’s operations—leading her team and overseeing the intricate mechanics of the main engine. Yet her journey is far from over. She is just 14 months of sea service away from her ultimate goal: becoming a chief engineer, the highest rank a marine engineer can attain.
Although CMA CGM has already recognized her leadership by offering her a prestigious land-based position in France, she remains focused on reaching the pinnacle of her seafaring career first.
Beyond her technical prowess, Precious has emerged as a mentor and a voice for change. She readily shares her knowledge with both her crew and aspiring seafarers. As an ambassador for CMA CGM and the Philippines, she delivered a compelling message in Myanmar:
“Being a female seafarer is about more than just navigating the waters—it’s about navigating the complexities of breaking norms and forging new paths.”
Back home in Legazpi City, she encouraged students to cultivate leadership early, sharing her guiding principles: Priorities, Patience, and Perseverance.
Charting an Extraordinary Course
Precious’ journey began unexpectedly. A girl whose first love was chemistry, she was already studying chemical engineering at Bicol University when she reluctantly took the MAAP entrance exam—only to accompany her brothers. Ironically, she was the only one who passed.
From that unexpected twist, she built a life of purpose at sea. Her experience now inspires others to “bloom wherever they are planted”—proof that with determination, even a diverted path can lead to an extraordinary destiny.
Her passion, perseverance, and patience have not only brought her personal fulfillment—they are helping reshape the maritime industry into one that is more inclusive and equitable.
Now the breadwinner of her family, Precious has no regrets. Her course may have changed, but she’s at the helm of her own story—and steering it toward a horizon of limitless possibilities.
Photos: Engr. Precious Joyce Calmada