From 01–03 September 2025, Manila hosted the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety and Well-Being under the theme “No One Left Adrift: Seafarers at the Cross Currents of Commerce, Conflict and Change.” The event brought together maritime leaders, government officials, industry stakeholders, and seafarer representatives from across the globe to reflect on the challenges of seafaring life and to renew commitments to dignity, safety, and human rights.

PTC was honored to contribute to these conversations, with CEO Gerardo Borromeo and Capt. Pol Haboc, Vice President of PHILCAMSAT, joining as panelists in Sessions II and IV.

In Panel Discussion II: Protecting Seafarers in Crisis Situations, Mr. Borromeo underscored the importance of building a global framework to ensure continuity and connectivity during crises. He called for international bodies such as the ILO, IMO, WHO, and ICAO to work together on a global business continuity plan—so the world is better prepared for future emergencies. He also urged greater recognition of shipping’s role in everyday life: “We need one billion conversations about shipping,” he said, so that societies globally recognize its indispensable value.

In Panel Discussion IV: Seafarers and the Just Transition in the Maritime Industry, Capt. Haboc shared PTC’s initiatives to ensure that no seafarer is left behind as the industry transitions to decarbonization and digitalization. He highlighted PHILCAMSAT’s Cornerstone and Capstone (2C) Program and digital tools such as the Competence Management System (CMS) and Competence Badging System (CBS), which promote lifelong learning and empower seafarers to track their progress. He also raised the importance of a National Maritime Skills Council to help the Philippines prepare its workforce for the future of shipping.

The conference concluded with the adoption of the Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Rights, Safety, and Well-Being, led by Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Carlos Sorreta, together with Philippine Ambassador to the UK Teodoro Locsin Jr. and MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan. The declaration affirmed eight key commitments—from enforcing the Maritime Labour Convention to ensuring preparedness during crises and supporting a just transition—while underscoring that seafarers’ rights are “inalienable and non-derogable.”

The event was also graced by the presence of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, and DOTr Assistant Secretary for Maritime Villamor Ventura Plan. PTC is grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside partners in reaffirming that seafarers remain at the heart of global trade. The company remains committed to supporting their rights and preparing them for the future of shipping—so that in the cross-currents of commerce, conflict, and change, no seafarer is left adrift.