June 25 Seafarers’ Day and 2015 Oratio Imperata for Peace in West Philippines Sea

The Day of the Seafarers was celebrated June 25 throughout the world as mandated by the International Maritime Organization.

Together, we join all in greeting, thanking, and saluting all our hardworking local and global seafarers!

Ms. Ellene Sana, in behalf of the Center for Migrant Advocacy, reminded all to “seize the occasion to put the spotlight on our more than 600,000 Filipino seafarers and the rest of the estimated 2 million seafarers globally-- to salute them, promote their rights and safety at sea, recognize and value their contribution to the global economy, development and survival.

Maraming salamat! Saludo! Mabuhay!”

Fr. John Mission of the AOS-Cebu (Apostleship of the Sea- Stella Maris Cebu) also shared:

“The Day of the Seafarer is an important occasion that recognizes the invaluable contributions/sacrifices made by seafarers around the world.

Seafarers play a crucial role in global trade and transportation. They are responsible for transporting goods/commodities across the seas, connecting nations, and, facilitating economic growth.

On this day, we honor the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of seafarers who often work in challenging/dangerous conditions.

It is a time to raise awareness about the vital role that seafarers play in our daily lives and to advocate for their rights/welfare/and well-being.

In Cebu, June 25 celebration started with the Fluvial at the Mactan Channel where prayers for dead seafarers, throwing of flowers, and, blessing of the sea were held. Participants led by Marina7, Stella Maris, Maritime groups went on board the two vessels owned by Metro Ferry and Mr. Nelson Mejia.

The Day of the Seafarer also serves as an opportunity to highlight the importance of safety and security for those working at sea.

By promoting a culture of safety and emphasizing the need for proper training, equipment, and support for seafarers, we can help ensure their protection and the sustainability of the maritime industry.

Atty. Selwin Prada, a seafarer himself, emphasized 10 safety measures for seafarers in his message.

There was a whole-day June 25 celebration for the seafarers at SM Seaside which started with the Holy Mass. The important value of faith and devotion to God were emphasized during the homily.

MARINA Regional Director,Ms. Annabel Lagas also asked all attendees to give their salute to all seafarers.

An Oathtaking Ceremony of 14 seafarers who passed the board exams for officers was led by Capt. Arturo Delgado.

Saludo kami sa inyo, mga seafarers!”

Early morning June 26, this Oratio Imperata appeared on FB.

This prayer was released in 2015 when the Philippines was defending territorial rights before the International Court.

“We cannot represent the Philippines in the international court, but we can certainly represent the Philippines before God,” according to then CBCP head,Archbishop Socrates Villegas.

Entitled “In Time of Grave Tension," that 2015 Oratio Imperata remains relevant, crucial till now.

“O Lord God Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, the sky and the seas, look kindly on us your children of the Philippine islands, our home, now beset with tensions over our West Philippine Sea.

We pray to you for peace over that part of our islands and waters.

We pray that questions over it may be resolved through justice and respect for people’s rights.

We pray that no harm be done to our marine creatures and habitat.

We pray that our fellow Filipinos protecting our islands and seas be kept safe from natural and man-made disasters.

Loving God You are our wonderful Creator, our generous Provider of good things; send your Holy Spirit of wisdom and understanding to our leaders that they resolve this crisis with courage and in the spirit of dialogue.

Help us all to remain faithful to Your Word, obedient to Your Will always.

This we ask through Christ our Lord, Amen.”