Marcos ensures Pinoy seafarers of gov't commitment to develop maritime industry

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Tuesday assured Filipino seafarers that his administration would continue to develop the country’s maritime industry.

Marcos made the commitment as the world celebrates the 2024 Day of the Seafarer.

“Let me reiterate the full support of this administration as we strive to reach our goal of having a modern and future-ready maritime industry. To help us reach this objective, we recognize the role and efforts of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) by promoting a highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce as well as adopting an effective and efficient maritime administration governance system,” the President said.

“I laud the MARINA for complying with international standards and keeping at par with other nations when it comes to this specialized industry. This year’s theme is a clarion call for us to share the best practices that help make the maritime sector a better, safer, and more fulfilling workforce for our seafarers," he added.

The President also lauded the achievements and contributions of Filipino seafarers, which he considered as the best in the world when it comes to driving the growth of both the international shipping industry and the global economy.

“Therefore, with grateful hearts, we celebrate the many achievements and contributions of our Filipino merchant fleet as we celebrate the Day of the Seafarer for this year,” Marcos said.

The Presidential Communications Office said that the Day of the Seafarer is an annual celebration organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to recognize the contribution of seafarers to the general public.

It was established in a resolution adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt the revised Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping  (STCW) Convention.

The resolution aims to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society.

Last June 12, a Filipino seafarer was killed when Yemen's Houthi rebels attacked a bulk cargo carrier in the Red Sea. 21 other Pinoy crew members of the ship were rescued and flown back to the Philippines.—RF, GMA Integrated News