June has been a month of celebration and significant milestones for the Philippine maritime industry, honoring the immense contributions of Filipino seafarers and reaffirming the country's commitment to maritime safety and innovation.
Honoring Filipino Seafarers: Day of the Seafarer 2024
On June 25, a special flag-raising ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Luneta commemorated the Day of the Seafarer, paying tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of Filipino mariners. The Department of Migrant Workers reported a record high deployment of 578,626 seafarers in 2023, reflecting the crucial role of the sea-based sector in the nation's economy, with remittances totaling $6,852,362. This ceremony, organized by SeaFam, emphasized the importance of maritime safety, aligning with the theme of this year's World Maritime Day, "Navigating the future: safety first."
MARINA's 50th Anniversary: Celebrating Leadership in Maritime Safety
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) marked its 50th anniversary on June 1, celebrating five decades of leadership in maritime safety, innovation, and sustainability. Established in 1974, MARINA has been pivotal in promoting safety, efficiency, and excellence in the maritime sector. This year's Day of the Filipino Seafarer, hosted by MARINA, featured a symposium that highlighted international cooperation and innovative practices to enhance maritime safety. The event also recognized the bravery and skills of Filipino seafarers with awards like "Marina Honours Filipino Seafarer Bravery at Sea 2024" and "Gawad Natatanging Mandaragat 2024," showcasing their significant contributions to the maritime sector.
Legislative Milestone: The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers
In a significant legislative development, the latest version of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers removed the contentious provision on the execution bond, a move hailed as a victory for seafarers' rights and welfare. This bill aims to implement the standards set by the Maritime Labour Convention of 2006, ensuring the protection and welfare of Filipino seafarers. Senator Risa Hontiveros, a principal author, emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing greater protection from abuses and violations of rights, recognizing the economic contributions and sacrifices of Filipino seafarers. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government's commitment to developing the maritime industry, promoting a highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce, and ensuring the Philippines' compliance with international standards.
Supporting the Maritime Industry
As Lacerta, we support these initiatives and advancements, recognizing the indispensable role of Filipino seafarers in the global maritime industry. As we celebrate these milestones, Lacerta remains committed to enhancing the welfare and professional growth of seafarers, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for all.
Sources:
Pinoy Marino Rights: Raise the flag for Filipino seafarers!
Marcos ensures Pinoy seafarers of gov't commitment to develop maritime industry
Execution bond removed in the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers
Marina marks 50 years of leading maritime safety, innovation and sustainability
