In a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who keep global trade moving, the PTC Group proudly celebrated the Day of the Seafarer (DOTS) on June 25, 2025, with a full day of meaningful activities across its key locations. Simultaneous celebrations, organized by the PTC Family Crew Relations team, were held at First Maritime Place for PTC Global Maritime Professionals (GMP), the Pilgrim Building for Jebsen PTC GMPs, and at PTC’s Cebu and Iloilo offices. Anchored on this year’s powerful theme, #MyHarassmentFreeShip, the event championed a global call to action: to foster a culture of respect, dignity, and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea.

The day began with Libreng Sakay, offering free tricycle rides for GMPs, allottees, applicants, and employees to the First Maritime Place. This small but impactful gesture set the tone for a day of community and care.

The morning continued with a special mass officiated by Fr. Willie Ramos of the Parish of St. James the Great in Alabang. A former seafarer turned priest, Fr. Willie reminded attendees of the strength and spirituality that unite maritime professionals. He likewise urged them to always make time for prayer, whether onboard or onshore, and to glorify God through their noble work at sea. Cadets from partner schools joined the solemn gathering, along with PTC Group GMPs and employees. Adding a special touch to the mass, the PTC Group Choir rendered special song numbers for the GMPs.

A significant highlight of the day was the signing of the PTC Group Commitment Wall, held simultaneously at First Maritime Place and the Pilgrim Building. PTC Group and Jebsen PTC Global Maritime Professionals came together to declare their support for a safer, more respectful maritime environment. The wall bore a powerful pledge that read:

This symbolic act emphasized collective accountability in promoting dignity and safety at sea, reinforcing the idea that culture change begins with commitment from each individual.

In support of the DOTS 2025 theme, the day featured a series of thought-provoking learning sessions designed to empower and educate both current and future maritime professionals. In the “Officer’s Helm” session, Capt. Ronald Enrile, Capt. Antonio Nacino, and C/E Mark Phillip “Chief Makoi” Laurilla led a dynamic and candid discussion with deck and engine officers. The session centered on the critical role of ship officers in cultivating a respectful shipboard culture and provided practical guidance on how leaders can set the tone through example, empathy, and accountability. Topics included addressing inappropriate behavior onboard, ensuring open lines of communication with crew members, and creating a climate of trust where everyone feels safe and valued.

Simultaneously, a parallel learning session for cadets called “Voices from the Vessel” was held to prepare them for the realities of life at sea while reinforcing their responsibilities in creating safe spaces onboard. The session was opened by Ms. Beng Cristobal, and C/E Eric Edgardo Bautista, followed by discussions led by C/E Joey Abengona, Engr. Marianne Camille Pastolero, and Ms. Hyacinth Sales. The speakers tackled timely and essential topics such as Creating a Safe and Respectful Maritime Environment, Responsible Handling of Social Media When Onboard, and Mental Health and Well-being on Board Ships. With insights drawn from their own seafaring experiences, the speakers encouraged cadets to be mindful of their actions, support one another, and always uphold professionalism and dignity regardless of their rank or background.

The celebration continued into the afternoon with PTC GMP Jam, a fun-filled program dedicated to the hardworking PTC Global Maritime Professionals. Laughter and cheer echoed through the Penthouse of FMP as GMPs and employees joined games, won prizes, and enjoyed inspiring performances. A standout moment was the musical number by Bosun Gilbert Solema on saxophone and his son, MSM Dun Gil R. Solema, on vocals. Annalou Balate of PTC Insures also delivered a moving song number that delighted the crowd. Lucky winners walked away with gift certificates and appliances, thanks to the generosity of First Maritime Credit Corp., SunLife Grepa, PTC Insures, PHILCAMSAT, Constellation Travels, Inc.

As a special treat throughout the day, GMPs were pampered with a variety of delights that added to the festive spirit of the celebration. They enjoyed a hearty lunch shared with fellow seafarers and colleagues, along with free ice cream and donuts that brought smiles all around.

In the evenings of June 24 and 25, First Maritime Place was illuminated in blue, symbolizing not only the sea but also PTC’s commitment to a brighter, safer, and more respectful maritime industry.

More than a celebration, this year’s Day of the Seafarer was a reaffirmation of the PTC Group’s enduring support for the dignity, safety, and well-being of all seafarers.