There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between the aspirations of the younger generation and the growing needs of Filipino seafarers so that they would be enticed to join the maritime industry and ensure its survival amid the changing global landscape.
Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Hernani Fabia delivers a speech during the celebration of the "Day of the Filipino Seafarer" in Malate, Manila on June 25, 2023. (Screenshot from Marina Facebook livestream)
This was emphasized by Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Hernani Fabia as he led the celebration of the “Day of the Filipino Seafarer” (DotFS) in Malate, Manila on Sunday, June 25.
“Kailangan natin maunawaan ang nagbabagong mga ambsiyon ng mga batang henerasyon sa panahong ito (We need to understand the changing ambitions of the younger generation during these times). The allure of a seafarer career, once a proud tradition passed down through generations, now faces a different landscape,” Fabia said.
According to the Marina chief, today’s generation are presented with an array of career choices, “and many may not see themselves embarking on a career at sea.”
“Tungkulin nating ipakita ang napakaraming oportunidad na hatid ng propesyong pandagat (It is our duty to show them the many opportunities brought by the maritime profession). Let us inspire the younger generation, ensuring that they understand the significance of seafaring and their contribution to the maritime world including the impact they can have in protecting our oceans,” Fabia noted.
Fabia urged the youth to pursue a career in the maritime industry as he assured them that the government is working to provide their needs in advancing their professional career.
He also highlighted the “invaluable contribution” of seafarers in safeguarding the world’s oceans.
He said Filipino seafarers are actively implementing the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) regulations to ensure the proper handling and disposal of sea wastes, prevent oil spills, and protect marine life from the harmful effects of pollution.
“Together, let us ensure that our commitment to protecting our marine environment remains resolute and unwavering because our oceans are worth protecting,” Fabia said.
The Marina also held a symposium to provide updates and insights on various topics related to maritime affairs.
The MARINA presented the latest information on Marine Plastic Litter (MPL), shedding light on the growing concern about plastic pollution in the country's oceans. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also discussed the seafarers' roles in safeguarding the planet, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.
The MARINA also officially launched an audio-visual presentation of the Philippine Candidature to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council Category C for the 2024-2025 Biennium, as well as the Search for Exceptional Bravery at Sea Awardees, with plans to recognize the winners during the upcoming National Maritime Week (NMW) Celebration in September.
Further, participants of the celebration enjoyed various complimentary services, including massages and haircuts, as well as assistance with MARINA ID processing. A Public Assistance Desk was also set up to address concerns regarding examination and assessment, certification, Seafarer's Identity Document (SID), and Seafarer's Record Book (SRB).
In the afternoon session, seafarers took part in a mass oath taking ceremony, specifically of harbor pilots and merchant marine officers.
A total of 18 harbor pilots and 50 merchant marine officers, consisting of 13 master nariners, two chief mates, 14 officers-in-charge of a Navigational Watch (OIC-NW), nine chief engineers, one second engineer, and 11 officers-in-charge of an engineering watch (OIC-EW) participated in the ceremony. Additionally, simultaneous oath takings of merchant marine officers were conducted in Iloilo and Cebu.
The DotFS is an annual celebration designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to recognize the significant contributions of seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society.
The DotFS is commemorated June 25 in the Philippines pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 183 series of 2011.
This year, the DotFS recognizes the role of seafarers in protecting the marine environment anchored in the World Maritime theme: “MARPOL at 50 - Our Commitment Goes On (#OceansWorthProtecting).”
The celebration seeks to reflect the long history of protecting the environment from the impact of shipping via robust regulatory framework and emphasizes commitments to this important work.