Deadly Sea Secrets Filipino Sailors Take to Their Graves Revealed

The last week of September is a significant period for the maritime world, as it marks both the annual National Seafarers Day (NSD) and the National Maritime Week. This year, the 29th NSD was observed on September 29, with a theme that resonated deeply with the nation: "Marinong Filipino: Ligtas na Paglalayag!" (Filipino Seafarers: Safe Voyage!). This theme not only highlights the importance of safety at sea but also acknowledges the critical role that Filipino seafarers play in the country's maritime industry.

The proclamation of NSD by President Fidel Ramos in 1996 emphasized the vital contribution of Filipino seafarers to the nation's growth as a maritime country. A year later, the occasion was moved to the last Sunday of September, coinciding with the National Maritime Week (NMW). The NMW, held annually during the last week of September, is spearheaded alternately by the Maritime Industry Authority, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine Ports Authority.

This year's NMW, which ran from September 22 to September 29, featured a series of activities that showcased the country's commitment to maritime safety and the well-being of its seafarers. These activities included the International Coastal Cleanup Day, an ecumenical Mass at the PCG grounds, wreath and flower-throwing activities in memory of deceased seafarers and fishers, a flag-raising ceremony at the Independence Flagpole of Rizal Park, an oratorical and art competition among students from different maritime schools nationwide, a mental health awareness activity, and a maritime safety conference focusing on the theme "Navigating the future: Safety first!"

Despite the festivities, it is essential to recognize that the challenges faced by Filipino seafarers are real and multifaceted. In 2023, Filipino seafarers deployed overseas reached 578,626, with dollar remittances amounting to more than $6 billion. While the life of a seafarer may seem like an adventure, it is often marked by harsh working conditions, long hours, and the risk of piracy and other security threats.

Danish author Martin Andersen Nexø aptly described the sea as a "wet and unstable world in which humans are powerful agents yet also increasingly impotent creatures." This vulnerability is evident in the fear and anxiety caused by security threats, which can be debilitating and affect the morale and mental health of the crew. Moreover, the isolation that comes with spending months away from family and friends can lead to anxiety and loneliness, a challenge that is difficult to overcome even with the advent of modern technologies.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has long recognized the importance of developing and adopting international regulations to improve safety at sea. Since its establishment in 1959, the IMO has prioritized the adoption of international conventions and codes, including the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, international collision regulations, and global standards for seafarers.

Moreover, the IMO has issued a series of resolutions and codes, including guidelines on navigation issues and performance standards for shipborne navigational and radio communication equipment. These efforts underscore the need for practical reason and continuous learning in the pursuit of maritime safety.

Nexø noted that "philosophers have a name for the particular intelligence that characterizes persons who excel in action: practical reason." This practical reason, complemented by knowledge gained from continuous learning, is a formidable asset in the quest for maritime safety. As the search for ways to enhance safety at sea continues unabated, it is essential to recognize the critical role that Filipino seafarers play in meeting our needs, despite the risks they face.

In the words of a Chinese proverb, "Dig the well before you are thirsty." This adage serves as a reminder that we should not wait for another tragic incident to occur before taking action to prevent danger. By prioritizing maritime safety and supporting our seafarers, we can ensure a safer and more sustainable future for all.