The Philippine delegation, led by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Elmer Sarmiento, emphasized the need for global maritime leaders to unite in ensuring the safety and protection of seafarers at the Brussels Conference on the Wellbeing of Seafarers held on 08 March 2024.

Joined by H.E. Jaime Victor Ledda of the Philippine Embassy in Brussels, MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, and Mr. Gerrardo Borromeo, chair of the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC), the delegation advocated for prioritizing seafarers’ welfare.

The conference addressed various crucial topics including the attractiveness of the maritime sector, seafarer attrition, women in maritime, and seafarers’ wellbeing, aiming to foster dialogue and momentum in addressing global challenges facing seafarers.

As a symbolic gesture, the conference produced a logbook compiling messages and wishes to seafarers worldwide, which will be presented to the Maritime Safety Committee in IMO to guide future international initiatives for enhancing seafarers’ well-being.

View Photos here.