In line with the directives of pioneer MAAP President VAdm Eduardo Ma R Santos, AFP ( Ret) to document all MAAP initiatives and strong linkages both local and international, the Department of Research and Extension Services (DRES), established on May 3, 1999 , became the External Relations Office (ERO) in January 2014, with Prof. Angelica M. Baylon as its Director, still under the Office of MAAP President. Research and Extension Services offices were made two separate offices under the Academics Department who shall ensure that all faculty members would have research outputs every semester. The reorganization was intended for better management and focus on key areas for development. The establishment of ERO under the Office of the President is anchored on the belief that creating, building and sustaining strong relationship with the external community, maritime industry and universities local and globally, will improve the Academy's maritime education & training (MET) capacity and competitiveness. Networking with key partners around the world is crucial for MAAP to be truly globally competitive
By year 2020, MAAP thru ERO shall be recognized as a reputable higher maritime education institution with its performance indicated by having highly satisfied/sustained stakeholders/clienteles (feedback thru letters; commendations; sponsored invitations etc); accredited by local and international bodies on various aspects, successful funded projects/activities and recognition, awards and grants received on various concerns, making MAAP known in the local and international arena.
ERO plans, initiates, monitors and evaluates MAAP external linkages and networks that are relevant in enhancing the quality of its programs /projects and activities in collaboration with reputable external partners;
ERO aims to support the MAAP vision, mission and objectives, most especially in terms of strengthening national and international linkages and partnerships. ERO pro-actively develops cooperative relationships with relevant contacts - maritime education and training officials, faculty members, facilitators, government officials and other maritime stakeholders to maintain the Academy's reputation, while paving the way for future maritime partnerships and opportunities
External Activities at MAAP which are in partnership with external partners or linkages are carried out in accordance with the directives of MAAP President as well as current trends for innovative development. External activities and expansion of external contacts are important conditions for the creation of an effective system of quality management which allow meeting of excellent education standards. In order to enter the educational international market and arena, MAAP carries out the following tasks: