Marcos vows continued protection of Filipino seafarers' global employability

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday vowed to safeguard the global employability of Filipino seafarers and maintain the highest international standards in the country’s maritime education.

Marcos said this during the commencement exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) “Salighirang” Class of 2026 in San Narciso, Zambales.

In his speech, the President recalled how the livelihoods of around 50,000 Filipino seafarers serving on European Union-flagged ships were put at risk after the EU’s ban warning due to the country’s repeated failure to hurdle the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA)’s evaluation.

“We could not allow the future of our Filipino seafarers to be placed in such a situation. And that is why your government acted immediately,” Marcos said.

“We strengthened maritime education and training, improved certification systems, upgraded facilities and equipment, and worked closely with our international partners to ensure that Philippine standards continue to meet global expectations,” he added.

Through these efforts, the President said the government will continue to protect Filipino seafarers’ global employability and uphold the highest international standards in maritime education, training, and certification systems in the country.

He also emphasized that the government is ready to assist Filipino seafarers who travel through uncertain waters, specifically those affected by the tensions in the Middle East.

“In this difficult situation, your safety and welfare remain our priority. Your government will always be within reach, ready to help,” Marcos said.

'Most trusted mariners'

The President also congratulated the graduating class, hoping they will carry the proud reputation of a Filipino seafarer wherever they go.

“To our dear graduates, you will soon join thousands of Filipino seafarers, the most trusted mariners in the world, bringing pride to our nation. You are respected because you consistently show competence, professionalism, dedication. More importantly, you have earned the trust of the international community,” Marcos said.

“Wherever the sea takes you, whether you serve under the Navy's flag, guard our shores, or fly our colors as merchant marine officers, never forget to bring that light with you. Carry yourselves with competence, lead with humility, and serve with integrity,” he continued.

The Salighirang Class of 2026 is composed of 327 graduating midshipmen---146 of whom from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT), and 181 from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE).

This batch’s valedictorian is Midshipman First Class Mark Owen Trilles from Tigaon, Camarines Sur. —VAL, GMA News