MESSAGE
HON. ENRIQUE A. MANALO
Secretary for Foreign Affairs
On the commemoration of the
International Day for Women in Maritime 2023
18 May 2023
I am honored and proud to lead the Department of Foreign Affairs in celebrating the International Day for Women in Maritime, in support of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) advocacy for global recognition of the contributions of women in the maritime sector. This year's theme, "Mobilizing networks for gender equality," is a reminder that gender equality and diversity are vital for the maritime industry to succeed, now and in the future.
The Philippines is an archipelagic and maritime nation, and our seafarers are part of our vibrant and vital maritime industry. It is important that our maritime sector is a reflection of our society, where everyone, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity, has equal access to opportunities and is represented in this field.
Women have been traditionally underrepresented in the maritime industry, with fewer opportunities for employment and career progression. According to the IMO, female seafarers constitute just 2% of the global crewing workforce. However, things are changing, and women are increasingly taking on important roles in the industry. We are seeing more women working in seafaring, maritime law, ship management, and other areas of the industry.
In the Philippines, we have been proactive in creating an environment that fosters women's participation in the sector. Women now account for 14% of our new international maritime workforce, a figure that surpasses the global average, positioning the Philippines as a leader in this regard.
This noteworthy representation showcases the increasing participation and invaluable contributions of women in the maritime industry of the Philippines. Their presence not only demonstrates progress towards gender equality but also fosters a more inclusive and diverse maritime workforce, ultimately strengthening the sector's vitality and potential for growth.
Filipino women in the maritime industry have shattered barriers, with many serving as captains, engineers, and crew members. Their unwavering dedication to their professions propels the growth of the maritime industry and solidifies our country's position as a premier seafaring nation.
While the Philippines remains at the forefront of promoting gender equality in the maritime sector, there is still much work to be done. Our government has implemented policies and programs that support the recruitment and retention of women in the industry. We need to continue to promote gender equality in the maritime industry and ensure that women are given the same opportunities for employment and career advancement that their male counterparts enjoy. We must also work to eliminate gender-based discrimination and harassment in the workplace. We must also ensure that women are not left behind amidst technological advancements in shipping, seafaring, and the industry's efforts to decarbonize.
To reach this goal, we need to mobilize networks and work together, forging partnerships between governments, the private sector, and civil society, to provide women with the support and resources they need to succeed.
Considering that Filipino seafarers comprise an estimated 25% of the global maritime workforce, the increasing presence of women in the Philippine maritime sector is an immensely significant stride towards gender parity in the global maritime industry.
On this International Day for Women in Maritime, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting gender equality in the maritime industry. Together, let us strive to ensure that women have equal opportunities to contribute to this vital sector of our economy. END