The Day of the Filipino Seafarer is celebrated on June 25 every year in the Philippines. This is one of the most iconic holidays in the Philippines and has been celebrated regularly for a few years. As a tribute to the marine industry’s workers, the Philippines hopes to promote awareness of the critical role that maritime workers play. Today, the Philippines is one of the world’s largest providers of maritime services, with a major section of its population involved in this industry, giving this holiday a special meaning.
History of The Day of the Filipino Seafarer
The Day of the Filipino Seafarer is a relatively recent holiday, celebrated for the first time in 2014. It was only after the recommendations of the International Maritime Organization to the United Nations, that the latter officially declared June 25 of each year as The Day of the Seafarer. Upon its first celebration, this holiday was mainly an international observance, with many countries taking part, as a way to honor local maritime industries and their workers.
This celebration quickly took on a special significance in the Philippines, as one of the biggest suppliers of maritime services in the world. As of today, Filipino maritime workers and seafarers account for more than 25 % of the total maritime workers in the world. Many people in the Philippines are employed in this sector and are deployed in international shipping operations for months on end. The risks associated with this line of work, and the important role it plays make this holiday one of the most celebrated in the Philippines.
Seafarers are typically encouraged to share their wisdom and experience with other seafarers during this special celebration. Many professional and international marine and shipping workers’ associations offer webinars, celebrations, and training programs for seafarers as a result of this. Because this is one of the most dangerous professions, effective training is as important as credit for sailors’ efforts. Many countries around the world are commemorating The Day of the Seafarer today, with the Philippines taking the lead in honoring the brave men and women who work in the marine industry.
The Day of the Filipino Seafarer timeline
The first maritime trade routes are created in the Arabian sea, to facilitate trade between India and parts of Africa.
The earliest shipping company in history, The British Shipping Company, is established.
The International Maritime Organization is founded as an effort to consolidate efforts and provide training for seafarers around the world.
The first international commemoration of The Day of the Seafarer takes place.
The Day of the Filipino Seafarer FAQs
How many Filipinos are employed in the maritime industry?
According to many statistics, more than a million Filipinos are working in the global shipping industry, making the country one of the top producers of this professional specialty.
Why are seafarers so important?
Seafarers run the Global Economy. 90% of the world’s food, fuel, raw material, and manufactured goods are delivered by sea. Nearly all things sold worldwide are transported through ships, which need skilled seafarers to operate, maintain and repair.
What is seafarer life?
The life of seafarers can be far from idyllic, with many international seafarers regularly completing long-term voyages that leave them isolated from friends, family, and loved ones for up to nine months at a time.
The Day of the Filipino Seafarer Activities
Give back
Seafarers perform some of the most relentless professions in the world. It wouldn’t be very hard to give back to these industrious workers. You can team up with other community members to organize a small celebration.
Join in the efforts
Many efforts and activities dedicated to assisting seafarers and increasing awareness of the importance of their profession would be made, particularly on The Day of the Filipino Seafarer. Any of these groups could always use a helping hand, so you can volunteer with them.
Visit the Philippines
Although this is an international celebration, it has taken on a special significance in the Philippines, where it is one of the most important holidays. Visiting this beautiful country during one of the most important celebrations can be a fun and engaging experience.
5 Interesting Facts About Shipping
Percentage of world trade
Commercial shipping is the lifeblood of the economy and accounts for 90 % of international trade.
Cleaner form of transport
Shipping leaves a smaller carbon footprint than other forms of shipping like cargo or trucks.
Constant movement
According to many estimations, there are currently more than 15 million containers being shipped, which applies to any given time.
How many containers?
Most large container ships have a large capacity, carrying more than 11,000 containers across a journey!
Communication breakdown
Only 10% of marine personnel will have access to the internet or other communication services during their voyages, leaving others completely lonely at times.
Why We Love The Day of the Filipino Seafarer
It’s the biggest employer in the Philippines
The marine industry is one of the most important employers in the Philippines, employing more than 25% of all nautical workers globally. Given the dangers involved in this type of employment, it is a remarkable achievement on the part of the Filipino people.
It’s the main engine of global trade
Maritime workers and seafarers are among the most important members of the global economy. The flow of products and international trade would cease if mariners were not present, making them indispensable.
It’s a day to show seafarers they are appreciated
Seafarers are one of those underappreciated professions, disregarded not only by international organizations but also by their own countries. If you look past their smart uniforms and fancy travel itineraries, you can see the rough life they lead and the hardships they face at sea to ensure that the world and its people continue to enjoy their lives on land.
The Day of the Filipino Seafarer dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 25 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | June 25 | Thursday |
| 2027 | June 25 | Friday |
| 2028 | June 25 | Sunday |
| 2029 | June 25 | Monday |
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