MANILA, Philippines — In celebration of the International Day for Women in Maritime, the Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL), in partnership with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), successfully hosted a forum on 19 May 2025 at the MARINA Central Office, Manila. The event, themed “OUR STORY: Raising the Bar of Women’s Voices in Maritime,” highlighted the growing leadership of women across the maritime sector.

The forum gathered women leaders, professionals, and advocates, including partner organizations from Latin America, Timor Leste, Malaysia, and the Maldives, to honor women’s contributions in maritime. MARINA Deputy Administrator for Operations Engr. Nanette Z. Villamor-Dinopol emphasized the need for inclusive leadership, while WIMA Asia/Philippines President Merle Jimenez-San Pedro called for collective advocacy in climate action and marine protection.

Keynote speaker, Philippine Commission on Women Chairperson Ermelita V. Valdeavilla, challenged prevailing gender norms, affirming that maritime excellence transcends gender. Testimonials from sector leaders, including representatives from BFAR-NCR, MENRO-Siargao, Orient Register of Shipping, and the shipbuilding industry, underscored the importance of visibility, mentoring, and opportunity.

The event featured an open forum, the oathtaking of new WIMAPHIL members, and the launch of the “WOW ang Paglago” initiative. Rear Admiral Mitzie Silva-Campo of the PCG closed the forum with a call to transform dialogue into concrete leadership opportunities for women.

WIMAPHIL and MARINA reaffirmed their shared commitment to championing women’s leadership and shaping a more inclusive Philippine maritime industry.

View photos here