Honoring Our Maritime Heroes

On June 25, 2024, the world united in celebrating International Seafarers’ Day. Here in Davao City, a local celebration honored the seafarers who significantly contribute to the global economy, bringing billions of dollars to the Philippines, and who serve as the fathers, brothers, sons, husbands, mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives of countless families.

This year’s theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First!” emphasized the importance of safety for seafarers who face numerous dangers, both natural and human-made. The celebration commenced with the dressing of ships and the resonant blowing of horns from docked vessels. A poignant flower offering ceremony honored seafarers who have lost their lives at sea, creating an awe-inspiring and emotional atmosphere.

Following these opening activities, a Holy Mass was celebrated by the Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People Director, Rev. Fr. Dexter Veloso. In his homily, Fr. Veloso highlighted the struggles and dangers seafarers encounter daily, especially being far from their loved ones. He likened the sea to the challenges they face and compared God to an anchor, providing stability amid life’s turbulent waters. As he concluded, Fr. Veloso encouraged everyone to use the hashtag “#IPrayForYou” when sharing photos of themselves and their beloved seafarers, underscoring the power of prayer for their safety.

Post-Mass, a short program featured educational videos on safety measures and various entertainment segments. The event was attended by staff from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), students from marine colleges such as DMMA College, AGRO-Industrial Foundation College, and Holy Cross of Davao College, Inc. Chief Engineer Romulo Malapit, a member of the Board of Examiners at MARINA, was among the notable guests. He reaffirmed that 80% of seafarers’ salaries must be remitted to their families in the Philippines, highlighting their crucial role in supporting the nation’s economy.

Davao MARINA’s Director, Ms. Felisa N. Orongan, humorously remarked, “I hope people realize that without seafarers, there will be no shipping, and without shipping, there will be no shopping.” While amusing, her statement underscored the indispensable role seafarers play in global commerce, ensuring the delivery of essential goods to our homes and offices.

As we celebrate International Seafarers’ Day, let us recognize the invaluable contributions of our seafarers and commit to supporting their safety and well-being. Their dedication and sacrifices are the backbone of global trade, and our prayers and gratitude are the least we can offer in return.

We thank the following mission partners for the live coverage of the Holy Mass:

ND HOLDING GROUP, INC.
Carlo and Arianne Bolasa & Family
Harold and Grace Aranas & Family
Ronel and Myre Saturinas & Family
MARINO PARTYLIST
Dianel and Ken Orcasitas & Family
Robertson and Joy Collado & Family
Capt. Ronald and Margarita Gomez & Family
Capt. John and Maybelline Banderado & Family
Francis Lloyd and Rendalee Magarin & Family
Michael and Maribel Micayabas & Family
Norbert Magtajas & Family
Capt. Ireneo and Betty Malano & Family
Capt. Emanuel and Rogelyn Ann Arot& Family
Juan and Maria Victoria Reoja & Family
Bing Micayabas & Family
Lucille Quindoy & Family
BSM DAVAO
AMOSUP DAVAO-GIG OCA ROBLES SEAMENS HOSPITAL
Eduardo and Elvie Loking & Family
Francis Lloyd Duay & Family
WAVE INDUSTRIAL SALES
PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY
DAVAO MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY COLLEGE
AGRO-INDUSTRIAL FOUNDATION COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES
Capt. Bernie and Bernadette Aguilar & Family