In a powerful demonstration of leadership at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Headquarters, the Philippines took center stage during the 111th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111), simultaneously championing the advancement of women in the maritime sector and calling for urgent global action on critical seafaring security.
As part of the global celebrations for the International Day for Women in Maritime, Philippine Maritime Attaché Atty. Sharon De Chavez-Aledo moderated a high-level expert panel titled, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence.”
The panel brought together prominent global maritime leaders to address the gap between high-level gender policies and their practical implementation on the ground and at sea. The discussions centered on creating concrete pathways for inclusive growth, breaking systemic barriers, and expanding leadership opportunities for women across all sectors of the maritime industry. Atty. De Chavez-Aledo emphasized that gender equality is not just a matter of equity, but a fundamental driver of operational excellence and innovation in modern shipping.
“Advancing gender equality is no longer just a policy goal—it is a prerequisite for maritime excellence. True progress happens when we move from paper to practice, creating an industry where women can thrive at every level, from the shipyard to the boardroom,” said Atty. Sharon De Chavez-Aledo, Philippine Maritime Attaché.
While celebrating progress on land, the Philippine delegation also addressed severe threats facing seafarers at sea. Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the IMO, joined fellow Member States in raising grave concerns over the escalating tensions and volatile security situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
With the Philippines being one of the world’s largest providers of merchant mariners, Ambassador Locsin issued a resounding call for urgent, coordinated international action. He stressed the absolute necessity of ensuring the freedom of safe navigation and demanded robust protections for the civilian seafarers who keep global supply chains moving.
The dual engagement of the Philippine delegation underscores the nation’s comprehensive approach to maritime governance:
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Inclusive Workforce: Driving the IMO’s strategic goal to foster a barrier-free working environment for women in the maritime community.
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Proactive Diplomacy: Actively participating in high-level security dialogues to safeguard international trade routes and protect human capital.
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Global Leadership: Reaffirming the Philippines’ position as a proactive, leading maritime nation dedicated to both progressive industry evolution and the immediate safety of its global workforce.
