The Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL) Day 2025, in line with the 26th National Maritime Week, pressed on despite the cancellation of classes yesterday at St. Therese-MTC Colleges-MPH La Fiesta Site, Molo, Iloilo City.
The highlight of the program was the induction and oathtaking of the incoming officers for Western Visayas. Dr. Belinda Gavadan, one of the advisers of WIMA-Youth JBLFMU-A, pledged as treasurer under Ms. Christel Marie Layson, who has assumed the presidency after Dr. Ma. Teresa Sarabia's term.
Meanwhile, Ms. Grace Catedrillla, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Coastal Extension Officer, explored this year's theme, "Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity."
She emphasized the importance of the Philippines' marine biodiversity, effects of human-induced threats, and humanity's sustainable actions and commitment through the tagline: "Ikaw! Ako! Tayo ang Solusyon."
Moreover, updates on the eco shelter from eco bricks making project in Tigbauan were tackled, and each WIMAPHIL sector shared their accomplishment reports from the year 2024 to the present.
Thirty female students of this university, accompanied by a few female faculty members, participated in the event along with the delegates from the Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, and STMTCC's three sites: Tigbauan, La Fiesta, and Magdalo.
Participation in this event aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs): Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Climate Change (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
Story by Mdpwn. Jexine Ysabelle Hibionada
Photo Courtesy of Mdpwn. Cresa Ann Sabio
Pubmat by Mdpn. Joshua Tanciano