MANILA – In celebration of the National Maritime Week 2021, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through its STCW Office, is set to conduct a Webinar regarding Seafarers’ Mental Health on 23 September 2021, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM via Zoom platform.

With the theme “Raising the Awareness on Seafarers’ Mental Health and Best Practices”; the MARINA has set its sight on a looming issue among seafarers facing the COVID-19 pandemic – the issue of mental health. This also follows the Presidential Proclamation No. 1094, or the Declaration of the last Sunday of September of every year as the National Seafarers’ Day.

Given the alarming statistical data on seafarers’ mental health, the MARINA, in its efforts of trying to curb the numbers, will work hand-in-hand with some of the most respected and experienced mental health experts in different maritime organizations. These experts include AMOSUP Representative and Mental Health Advocate, Ms. Robelyne D. Lumampao, RPsy. MBA; CEO of the Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTC), Mr. Gerardo A. Borromeo; Regional Director of the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance (ISWAN), Mr. Renato Pablo, Jr.; Founder of Happiness at Sea, Ms. Pam Kern; COO of WellAtSea, Ms. Gisa Paredes, and Professional Certified Life and Business Coach, Master Coach Adette Purto.

The webinar will also be attended by stakeholders, Local Manning Agencies (LMAs), maritime and seafarer organizations, seafarer associations, as well as seafarers who will be the primary audience of the online symposium.

Looking forward to a bright future of the industry characterized by pride, hard work, and resilience, the MARINA believes that keeping the maritime industry prosperous means addressing our seafarers’ mental needs—empowering them to become productive members of the workforce and positive influences to those around them. With seafarers’ mental health coming into the light, the Agency also recognizes the need to raise awareness about the emotional well-being of crew who are currently serving on board ships.

MARINA ensures that it will remain duty-bound to protect and nurture its seafarers’ mental health and overall well-being according to the needs of our time – and in order to do that, we must all exert an effort to delve into the problem and learn how to properly support those who are affected by it.

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