Statement on the Day of the Seafarer

25 June 2025

MANILA 25 June 2025 – The Philippines honors seafarers from all around the world – key workers in a strategic industry that is global shipping. Through seafarers’ hard work and professionalism, life-sustaining goods – from food to fuel and medicines – and other products from different parts of the world reach our communities, crisis or no crisis.

About a quarter of the world’s seafaring workforce are Filipinos. As the leading source of seafarers, a strong advocate for human rights at sea, and a champion for gender equality, the Philippines strongly supports the campaign “My harassment-free ship” launched by the International Maritime Organization on this Day of the Seafarer. This call for action to build a maritime culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment on board ships is timely as it is necessary.

In July 2024, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted by consensus the Philippine-led resolution 56/8 urging all stakeholders to advance gender equality and empowerment in the maritime industry by fostering an environment where all seafarers, including women seafarers, are safe and their rights respected. Inclusion and diversity are crucial to an equitable, sustainable, and resilient maritime industry.

In a world undergoing profound shifts and upheavals, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to continue working with all partners to further advance safe decent and living conditions for all seafarers. On 01 to 03 September 2025, the Philippines will host the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety and Well-being with the theme “No one left adrift: Seafarers at the cross currents of commerce, conflict, and change”.  END