In commemoration of the Day of the Seafarer, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. paid heartfelt tribute to Filipino seafarers, lauding them as the “quiet strength” behind the machinery of global trade and maritime operations.
In his official message, President Marcos highlighted the discipline, skill, and resilience of Filipino maritime workers who continue to serve with distinction despite the physically demanding nature of their work and long separations from loved ones.
“In every machinery of global trade, and in every sea where a vessel sails, lies the quiet strength of a Filipino seafarer—proud, disciplined, and tireless,” the President said. “Their work is demanding, their time away from home long, and yet they continue to serve with skills and silent endurance.”
Recognizing their vital role both in the national economy and on the global stage, the President reaffirmed the Philippines’ collective responsibility to support and protect seafarers, emphasizing the need for sustained investment in their welfare and professional growth.
He underscored the pivotal role of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in safeguarding the rights and interests of seafarers through effective policies and training initiatives.
“MARINA’s mission is grounded in policies that matter, in training that empowers, and in a vision that sees our maritime workforce as a global asset and a national pride,” President Marcos noted.
The President called for renewed efforts to strengthen maritime education, improve deployment conditions, and uphold the dignity of Filipino seafarers through comprehensive support systems.
“Let this day renew our commitment to policies that uphold their dignity, expand their opportunities, and ensure that their contributions are matched by meaningful support both at sea and at home,” he said.
Observed annually on June 25, the Day of the Seafarer is led globally by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This year’s campaign, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” focuses on promoting a safe and respectful working environment onboard vessels and a zero-tolerance policy against bullying and harassment at sea.
The Philippines remains one of the world’s top suppliers of maritime professionals. According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), more than 504,000 Filipino seafarers were deployed in 2024. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) also reported USD 6.94 billion in remittances from the sea-based sector for the same year.
As the maritime community celebrates the invaluable contribution of seafarers, the Philippines continues to honor and empower its maritime workforce, true global ambassadors of Filipino excellence.
