Pinoy seamen take center stage on annual seafarers day

Sep 29

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Filipino seafarers are the most preferred seamen because of the many virtues they possess and the professionalism they demonstrate that significantly contributed to the Philippines and to the global maritime industry.

In recognition of their sacrifices, bravery and achievement, the AOS has aptly themed this year’s National Seafarers’ Day with “Filipino Seafarers: Leading Global Maritime Services”.

“We do appreciate the contributions of Filipino seafarers particularly the international maritime industry,” said Fr. Savino Bernardi, director of the Apostleship of the Ship (AOS) told abs-cbnNEWS.com in a telephone interview Saturday.

The theme, he said, is not only a statement but an invitation to give more professional extended service on board.

Scarcity of ship officers

He stressed that there is a scarcity of about 10,000 officers to man ships especially since thousands of ships are expected to be built within three years.

“There are not enough officers. Without officers, ships cannot run,” he said as he encouraged Filipino seafarers to become officers.

Now on its 13th year, the annual celebration is set on Sunday, September 28 as a conclusion of the maritime week and to celebrated the industry and the people. The AOS is mandated by Presidential Proclamation in 1996 to organize the event.

Fr. Bernardi said a mass will be held at 7:30 a.m. at the Baywalk in Manila.

“In the mass, we will pray for all seafarers and passengers, domestic and interisland, and fishermen,” Fr. Bernardi said.

He added that the 97 Filipino seafarers and seamen of different nationalities held hostage by pirates in Somali will be included in their prayers, as well as those who perished in sea mishaps.

“At 8:30 a.m. we will avail of vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard and go to the middle of the bay to offer prayers, flowers and wreaths for all those who died,” he said.

This will be followed by a parade from Kalaw to Quirino Grandstand where the celebration proper will take place.

Outstanding seafarers

Included in the celebration are the awarding of the Outstanding Seafarers of the Year (OSYA), oratorical and song writing contests winners.

The OSYA is given to seafarers who have shown acts of bravery at sea or for special contributions to the industry while students in nautical schools have been invited to join the oratorical contest and the song writing competition was open to all.

Fr. Bernardi said other activities have lined up to entertain the public who would be attending the event

He said that aside from ensuring the transport of goods, Filipino seafarers serve the maritime industry with professionalism, reliability and the readiness to sacrifice anything for the love of their family despite risky employment.

A total of 226,900 Filipino seafarers have been deployed last year according to data from the 2007 statistics of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

In report for the Migrant Watch newsletter in June, Fr. Bernardi said Filipino seafarers number to about 300,000 in international vessels while an estimated 100,000 more are servicing domestic routes and deep-sea fishing industry. They have contributed about US$2 to US$3 billion in remittances to the Philippine economy each year, Fr. Bernardi said.

According to data gathered by AOS Philippines from shipping employment, around 200-300 Filipino seafarers die at sea during the course of service and from sickness sustained while onboard.

Setting the standard

In terms of protection, Fr. Bernardi said the POEA sets the standards in the contracts of Filipino seafarers.

“The contract is not too bad and the rules and regulations protected them. However, everyday event is a different story,” he said.

While protection is “quite well in place” many Filipino seafarers still fall victims to exploitation and other illegal practices.

“Is the international industry doing enough? Everybody is concerned. We should find methods and systems to protect them,” he said.

He maintains that Filipino seafarers are well rewarded whatever sacrifices they make.

“The Apostleship of the Sea together with the organizing committee wish all seafarers, first of all, a quite fulfilling careers and safety employment aboard ships,” Fr. Bernardi said.

He added: “Filipino seafarers, so well-trusted around the world, give your best: in service to the world and the world will not only appreciate you. You are giving beautiful and impressive value to the Philippines and the whole world”.

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