MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. lauded Sunday the invaluable contributions of Filipino mariners as the world commemorates the annual Day of the Seafarer.
Marcos expressed his gratitude to Filipino seafarers, who comprise the majority of the sea-based workers in the global shipping and transport market.
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“Since time immemorial, our ancestors had long relied on seafaring to sustain their livelihood and forge economic and trade relations with people from other towns and countries. Over the centuries, our seafarers have explored far horizons to provide food, produce energy and build the foundation of our nation’s progress,” Marcos said in a video message.
“The courage and resilience that you demonstrate despite all the adversities and challenges that come your way show that the centuries-long tradition of Filipino seafaring remains strong and still drives each and every one of you today,” he added.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo also expressed appreciation for the important contributions of Filipino seafarers to the continuing flow of commerce and trade across the globe and to sustainable development.
“We also celebrate the invaluable contributions of women seafarers who have excelled in different maritime professions, demonstrating their competence, dedication, and resilience. We are committed to fostering an environment that empowers and supports women's participation in all areas of the maritime industry, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone,” Manalo said.
In late March, the European Commission decided it will continue recognizing certificates for seafarers issued by the Philippines. It cited “constructive cooperation” with Philippine authorities and their “efforts to improve the system for training and certifying seafarers.”
Protection of the world’s oceans
The theme of this year’s Day of Seafarer is “MARPOL at 50—Our commitment goes on.” The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the main global treaty for the prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
“Seafarers have always played a critical role in helping to protect the health of our ocean and planet, and that role is increasingly important,” International Maritime Organization Secretary General Kitack Lim said.
“As the shipping industry accelerates its support of the global efforts to combat climate change by moving towards decarbonization, seafarers' voices and actions are key to ensuring a just transition to a zero-carbon future,” he added.
In preparation for the decarbonization — reducing emissions through upgrades, better technology and more efficient processes — of the shipping industry, seafarers will need to be equipped with adequate skills and training to operate new technologies and handle alternative fuels like ammonia, which could pose a significant health and safety risk to them.
According to scientists and experts, emissions from ships must be halved by 2030 and must reach net zero by 2050 to meet the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.