The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has pledged to further strengthen the protection and welfare of Filipino seafarers, highlighting expanded support services and closer partnerships with organizations assisting crews overseas.

During a visit to the Mission to Seafarers in Vancouver, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac thanked the organization for its continued assistance to Filipino seafarers, particularly in providing counseling, pastoral care and support to crews while in Canadian ports.

“The physical and spiritual health concerns are very important to our Filipino seafarers, and we are glad to have the Mission to Seafarers as our partner,” Cacdac said.

Mission to Seafarers senior port chaplain Rev. Peter Smyth said Filipino seafarers are known for their strong faith, recalling how one crew member knelt in prayer at the mission’s chapel after surviving several days of rough seas.

Cacdac later boarded the Tauranga Maersk during its port call at the Port of Vancouver, where he met the vessel’s 22-member crew, including 16 Filipinos led by chief mate Jonafel Nabor.

The DMW chief discussed the crew’s working conditions and briefed them on government programs, including upskilling and career development initiatives being implemented with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Maritime Industry Authority.

He also assured the seafarers that the DMW remains ready to assist them and their families through its regional and overseas offices.

“We understand the challenges of working far from your families. If you have any concerns, the DMW is ready to assist you,” Cacdac said.

Ship master DG Dsouza commended the quality of Philippine maritime training and praised Filipino seafarers for their professionalism, competence and leadership.

Speaking on behalf of the crew, Nabor thanked Cacdac for the visit and expressed appreciation for the government’s continued support for overseas Filipino workers.