Filipino seafarers hailed as heroes of global trade

Filipino seafarers hailed as heroes of global trade

Manila Standard
27June 2024

Filipino seafarers are lauded by the government for their vital role in keeping global trade flowing smoothly through their efficient transport of goods.

“Our continuous inclusion in the whitelist of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) manifests our strict compliance to high standards in maritime education, training, and certification,” Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said.

“The recognition shows that our seafarers, who were trained and certified in the Philippines, meet the rigorous international standards by the IMO,” he added.

For her part, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan emphasized the need to equip seafarers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools for safety.

“Safety is an integral part of our seafarers’ everyday lives. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to navigate their duties safely. As we celebrate, let us reinforce our commitment to creating a safer maritime environment, where every seafarer is protected, valued, and empowered,” Malaluan said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. acknowledged the role and efforts of MARINA in promoting a highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce and adopting an efficient maritime administration governance system.

“I laud the MARINA for complying with international standards and keeping at par with other nations when it comes to this specialized industry,” President Marcos stated.

“Rest assured that this administration, through the Department of Transportation (DOTr), continues to work conscientiously in ensuring the advancement of our maritime industry and securing the best interest of all Filipino seafarers as we sail onward to our dream of a Bagong Pilipinas,” Marcos added.

MARINA celebrated the Day of the Filipino Seafarer on 25 June 2024, with a series of events that honored the invaluable contribution of seafarers to international trade and the global economy.

The celebration emphasized the importance of safety at sea, aligning with the 2024 campaign theme and the World Maritime theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First,” alongside the digital campaign #SafetyTipsAtSea.