Summary of Pinoy Marino Rights by Atty. Dennis Gorecho
The National Seafarers Day (NSD) in the Philippines, first celebrated on August 18, 1996, is dedicated to recognizing the critical contributions of Filipino maritime workers to the nation. Originally declared by former President Fidel V. Ramos through Proclamation No. 828, NSD was moved to the last Sunday of September with Proclamation No. 1094 in 1997 to facilitate nationwide observances, including mass offerings for seafarers.
The latest NSD, held on September 28, 2025, had the theme “Marinong Filipino: Ating Karagatan. Ating Kabuhayan. Alagaan!” emphasizing the importance of seafarers in both maritime and economic contexts. Bishop Ruperto Santos highlighted the sacrifices and resilience of seafarers, referring to them as the “lifeblood” of the nation.
The Philippines stands as a major supplier of maritime labor globally, with one Filipino seafarer for every four to five crew members on a vessel. According to the Seafarer Workforce Report 2021, the Philippines, along with Russia, Indonesia, China, and India, provides 44% of the global seafarer workforce. In 1996, there were about 175,469 documented seafarers contributing $251.24 million in remittances. By 2024, this number had risen to 504,057 seafarers with remittances exceeding $6.9 billion—making sea-based remittances at least 20% of total overseas Filipino worker (OFW) remittances.
The NSD coincides with the National Maritime Week celebrated the last week of September, aimed at promoting various maritime-related activities. Over the years, NSD has expanded its celebrations to include awards for outstanding seafarers, oratorical contests for maritime students, and various community activities like ecumenical memorials, processions, and music competitions—reflecting the cultural identity and contributions of seafarers.
Stella Maris Philippines plays a crucial role in supporting seafarers through nationwide centers that provide services and advocacy for their rights. Presently, there are 17 centers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to seafarers on all types of vessels.
NSD serves as a reminder of the commitment to uphold the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers, whose contributions remain integral to the Philippines’ maritime identity and economic framework. The various activities, including the Grand Parade and memorials at sea, showcase the deep respect and gratitude towards these “silent heroes” who navigate the oceans to support their families and the nation.
Through such observances, the Filipino community expresses appreciation for the seafarers’ hard work and the vital role they play in connecting the Philippines to the rest of the world. Atty. Dennis Gorecho, part of the legal framework advocating for seafarers’ rights, emphasizes the significance of recognizing the maritime industry’s contributions and the need for continual support for those who work at sea.
