By Helen Castaño | 09:56 AM June 25, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY — Despite the rainy weather, seafarers, maritime students, and stakeholders gathered at the Bohol Capitol for the flag-raising ceremony in celebration of the Day of the Filipino Seafarer.
Bohol is recognized as one of the top provinces producing Filipino seafarers, making the annual celebration a significant event to honor their vital contribution to both the local and global maritime industry.
Panglao Mayor Boy Arcay, a former sea captain, shared his personal experiences at sea, inspiring students and aspiring maritime professionals.
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado also addressed the crowd, encouraging the spouses of seafarers to become financially literate to better manage and maximize the earnings sent home by their loved ones working at sea.
“We honor our seafarers for the daily sacrifices they make to provide better lives for their families and deliver goods while passing through areas that are prone to piracy and other life-threatening situations,” he said.
“We join the global community’s call for safer workplaces by promoting a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at seas,” he added.
Organized by SeaFam International, this year’s celebration also highlighted the advocacy for “harassment-free ships,” aiming to raise awareness and promote safer, more inclusive, and supportive workplaces for all maritime workers.
The Day of the Seafarer (25 June) was established in a resolution adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt the revised STCW Convention. Its stated purpose is to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole.
Day of the Seafarer is recognized by the United Nations as an observance day.
International Maritime Organkzation (IMO)
This year’s theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” underscores the continuing campaign to promote respect, dignity, and a safe workplace for all seafarers worldwide.
