TACLOBAN CITY — In celebration of the International Day for Women in Maritime, the MARINA Regional Office VIII (MRO8), led by Regional Director Cheryl V. Pascua, held a significant program showcasing the vital contributions of Filipino women in the maritime sector.
A highlight of the event was the presentation titled “Profile of Filipino Women in Maritime” delivered by Ms. Elena M. Santos, Head of Maritime Research and Development at the National Maritime Polytechnic. The presentation recognized the important contributions of women in maritime, while also shedding light on the challenges they continue to face, particularly in overcoming gender biases in the sector.
The event also served as a platform to discuss ongoing efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting gender inclusivity in maritime professions.
Participants included women representatives from the Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas, Philippine Ports Authority – Eastern Leyte/Samar, PNP Maritime Group, and MARINA’s own personnel—further emphasizing the growing presence and recognition of women across the maritime field.
View photos here
ZAMBOANGA CITY — The MARINA Regional Office IX (MRO9), under the leadership of Officer-in-Charge Director Farida T. Cunanan, PhD, successfully wrapped up its celebration of the International Day for Women in Maritime 2025 with the awarding of winners in a poster-making contest held to highlight the perspectives and creativity of female maritime cadets.
With the theme “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” the competition drew participants from two academic institutions: Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) and Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University (ZPPSU). Each school was represented by two female cadets who translated their vision of the evolving roles of women in the maritime industry through visual art.
After a comprehensive judging process based on theme relevance, creativity, visual impact, composition, and overall presentation, the winners were announced:
1st Prize: Merry Rose Bayoneta, BSMT student, ZSCMST
2nd Prize: Catleah Lampayan, BSMarE student, ZSCMST
3rd Prize: Christine Faith Lim, BSMarE student, ZPPSU
4th Prize: Larra Mae Bosico, BSMarE student, ZPPSU
The poster-making contest served as a platform to amplify the voices and artistic expressions of future women in maritime, aligning with the global celebration of their vital contributions to the industry.
View photos here
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In celebration of the International Day for Women in Maritime, the women employees of the MARINA Regional Office X (MARINA Cagayan de Oro) participated in the Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL) forum on 19 May 2025.
With the theme “OUR STORY: Raising the Bar of Women’s Voices in Maritime,” the hybrid event showcased inspiring success stories of women professionals across the maritime sector, focusing on their achievements and impact.
A significant part of the program was the oath-taking ceremony for newly inducted WIMAPHIL members, including the women from MRO10, who are now officially part of the organization.
The forum provided a meaningful space for MRO10 women employees to amplify their voices, celebrate their roles in the industry, and reaffirm their commitment to advancing women’s leadership in maritime.
View photos here