Strengthening the Philippines’ maritime system is essential to ensuring that Filipino seafarers remain protected and competitive as the global industry continues to evolve, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac said Tuesday.
Cacdac made the statement as he opened the two-day Philippine Maritime Convention 2026 at The Manila Hotel, where government, labor, industry, academe, and international stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of the country’s maritime workforce.
He said the welfare of seafarers should be pursued alongside efforts to maintain high standards of competence and excellence. According to Cacdac, skilled maritime workers also need access to safe, decent, and secure working environments.
“Our aspiration is clear: to strengthen a Philippine maritime system where the seafarer is protected, competent, respected, and prepared for the future,” Secretary Cacdac said.
Cacdac also underscored the need to effectively implement the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. He said this should be complemented by sound maritime regulation, ethical recruitment practices, quality education and training, labor justice, responsive government services, and cooperation with international partners.
The DMW secretary further urged closer coordination among sectors involved in the maritime industry. He said the Philippines should seek to play a leadership role in determining how global seafaring develops, rather than limiting its contribution to providing skilled maritime workers.
The convention carries the theme “Sailing Forward: The Philippines as the Global Leader in Seafarers’ Welfare, Protection and Maritime Excellence.” It is being organized by the DMW in partnership with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), and the Joint Manning Group (JMG).
The two-day gathering is intended to turn policy discussions into common priorities and concrete commitments while strengthening sustained cooperation between government, industry, and labor for the benefit of Filipino seafarers and the wider maritime community.
“Let us ensure that whatever direction the maritime industry takes, the Filipino seafarer remains at the center of our journey,” Cacdac said.
