Despite looming clouds from the approaching supertyphoon Nando, the 26th National Maritime Week officially commenced on September 22, 2025.
Opening the program was former Iloilo City Councilor Jay Treรฑas, speaking on behalf of Mayor Raisa Treรฑas, who highlighted the maritime sectorโs importance and vital role for the countryโs development.
Various maritime institutions and sectors were present during the simultaneous sounding of shipsโ horns and the dressing of vessels at ports and maritime schools. It was then followed by a thanksgiving mass at the Jaro Cathedral. Afterwards, the attendees proceeded with the โWalk-For-A-Cause,โ which ended up at the venue proper, Robinson's Place Jaro.
Welcoming the guests was Mr. Allan M. Rojo, Port Manager of PPA PMO Panay/Guimaras, who underscored the eventโs theme, stating that โour actions today will dictate the future of the maritime community.โ
Engr. Bernardo A. Pollo, Regional Director, MARINA Regional Office VI, and Commodore Ludovico D. Librilla, Philippine Coast Guard Commander, Coast Guard District Western Visayas, represented by his Deputy Commander Artzell Anacan, likewise stress the shared responsibility for the sustainable and ethical use of marine resources.
The morning program concluded with remarks from Dr. Ma. Teresa S. Sarabia, President of Women in Maritime Philippines, Western Visayas.
The afternoon session featured the opening of the Maritime Photo and Equipment Exhibit and the Hybrid Mental Health Awareness Seminar, formally closing the first day of the week-long celebration.
The event, themed โOur Oceanโฆ Our Obligationโฆ Our Opportunity,โ was held along with the 30th National Seafarers' Day and the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo).
Participation in this event aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8); Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9); Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10); Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11); Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12); Climate Action (SDG 13); Life Below Water (SDG 14); Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16); and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
Story by Mdpn. Kiann Marteen Baldo
Photos by Mdpn. Rayle Navigar