Filipinos comprise a third of global mariners

FILIPINO seafarers were honored in yesterday’s celebration of the 3rd Seafarers Day.

Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Regional Director Nanette Villamor-Dinopol said that the Filipino seafarers, especially those working for international shipping lines contribute much to the economy.

Dinopol said that one out of three seafarers in the world is a Filipino. “If there would be no Filipino seafarers, the international maritime industry would be in a critical condition,” she said.

Commodore William M. Melad, chief of the Philippine Coast Guard in the Central Visayas said that seafarers are true modern day heroes.

Melad applauded the dedication and commitment of the seafarers who bring in goods in the country safely as well as deliver Filipino products throughout the world.

Not only are the Filipino seafarers contributing to the economy, but they are playing a big role in the global economy, said Melad.

As the role of the Filipino seafarers become relevant in the global maritime industry, Dinopol said the Philippine government is also responding to the challenges and demands of the global market.

“The Filipino seafarers are our sailing ambassadors to the world.

Among the challenges are the implementation of the new labor standards that cover more 68 international labor standards and the European Maritime Safety Audit that will be done in October.

Aside from the anticipated implementation and audit, the education of Filipino seafarers is also being monitored closely.

The United Nations marks June 25 as Seafarers Day.

Yesterday’s celebration started with a parade in the morning from Fuente Osmeña to SM Cebu.

Cadets from different schools offering maritime courses like University of Cebu, Southwestern University, Cebu Technological – University, Salazar Institute of Technology and Concord Technical Institute participated.