For many Filipino boatmen, each trip out into the water is a journey of grit, sacrifice, and hope. But these stories are often unheard or untold, as fleeting as the tide, as silent as the wind that guides their sails.

In line with this, a nationwide contest, “Pabangka ni El Kapitan Marine Epoxy Promo” is being launched by Bostik Philippines to recognize Filipino boatmen and their stories of perseverance and hope on the waters.

The contest offers participants a chance to win a brand-new boat.

It will first run in Luzon from 11 April to 23 June 2025 as the firm aims to highlight the struggles and triumphs of Filipino boatmen who serve as vital links to many coastal communities by ferrying passengers, delivering goods and fishing.

“Through ‘Pabangka ni El Kapitan Marine Epoxy Promo,’ we in Bostik Philippines hope to honor the unsung heroes of our waters – the boatmen who wake up before sunrise, brave the changing tides and inclement weather to keep entire communities connected and sustained,” said Fides Kasman, director of Market Development at Bostik Philippines.

“We want to hear their stories, celebrate their courage, and help them continue their journeys with pride,” he added.

Boatmen across Luzon are invited to participate by sharing their stories through a Google Form, answering questions about their experiences and the significance of their boat and livelihood, symbolized by the contest's name. Stories will be judged on authenticity, emotional impact, and the potential long-term benefit of the prize to the participant.

Two winners will be selected, each receiving a brand-new boat.

The winners will be announced on 25 June 2025, in the presence of a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) representative. They will be notified via SMS, email, registered mail, and phone call, and their stories will be featured on Bostik Philippines’ official Facebook page.