President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday paid tribute to Filipino seafarers for their role in sustaining global trade and supporting millions of Filipino families, while acknowledging the growing risks faced by maritime workers amid geopolitical tensions affecting international shipping routes.

In his message for the Day of the Seafarer 2026, Marcos extended his greetings to Filipino mariners working across the globe and recognized their contribution to the movement of people, goods, and economies.

“Filipino seafarers perform vital work that promotes the movement of people and keeps global trade moving and economies connected with great skill and dedication,” Marcos said in a video message.

“They ensure that passengers and economically imported goods reach their destinations safely, while supporting the livelihoods of millions of Filipino families.”

This year’s observance carries the theme, “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risks,” which the President said highlights the challenges confronting seafarers as conflicts and geopolitical uncertainties continue to disrupt major maritime corridors.

He said Filipino seafarers continue to perform their duties despite heightened security concerns and instability in key shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, where tensions have raised concerns over the safety of international maritime operations and global supply chains.

“Our seafarers continue to carry on their duties with courage and resolve that reach beyond the vessels that they serve,” he added.

Marcos said the contributions of Filipino seafarers help bolster the domestic economy and reinforce the reputation of Filipino workers worldwide.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of seafarers, many of whom spend months away from their loved ones while working overseas.

Observed every June 25, the Day of the Seafarer is an annual celebration led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to recognize the contribution of seafarers to international trade and the global economy.

The observance was established through a resolution adopted during the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila which approved amendments to the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention.

The Philippines remains one of the world’s leading sources of maritime labor, with Filipino seafarers reportedly accounting for nearly a quarter of the global seafaring workforce, making them a critical pillar of international shipping and a major contributor to the country’s economy through remittances and overseas employment.

In the same message, Marcos vowed that his government will continue to support Filipino seafarers as the maritime industry undergoes rapid changes driven by technological advances and evolving international standards.

“As the maritime industry continues to evolve through technological innovation and changing global standards, we must ensure that Filipino seafarers remain equipped with the knowledge and the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” he said.

Marcos said the government, through the Department of Migrant Workers and maritime stakeholders, is working to strengthen measures protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of Filipino seafarers.

“On this International Day of the Seafarer, we honor your service, recognize your sacrifices, and express our gratitude for all that you do for our country,” he added. (PNA)