TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) successfully conducted the pilot class for its newly designed and developed Mental Health Awareness for Seafarers course on 20 August 2024 at the NMP Annex Building, Cabalawan, Tacloban City.

This vital initiative stems from NMP’s research study, “Assessing the Mental Health and Well-being of Filipino Seafarers,” addressing the pressing need for mental health education among seafarers, who encounter unique challenges that profoundly affect their psychological well-being.

The course framework is based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) inclusive definition of mental health, which emphasizes both the presence of a well-rounded state of well-being and the absence of mental disorders.

Aligned with Republic Act No. 11036, the “Mental Health Act,” and the Philippine Council for Mental Health Strategic Framework for 2024-2028, this program is designed to enhance seafarers’ understanding of mental health, equip them with strategies to handle mental crises, and develop the skills needed to support their colleagues onboard vessels.

The pilot testing is a crucial step in refining the course content and delivery, ensuring that any identified gaps, deficiencies, or misalignments are addressed before the course is offered more broadly. Feedback from participants and the expert will be instrumental in fine-tuning the program to better meet the needs of seafarers nationwide.

Seventeen (17) participants and eight (8) validators attended the pilot class, with Dr. Minerva Peregrino-Molon, former Director of the Department of Health – Regional Office VIII, serving as the Subject Matter Expert.

Through this initiative, NMP reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the mental well-being of Filipino seafarers. By integrating this course into its regular training offerings, NMP aims to enhance safety, productivity, and overall well-being within the maritime industry, ensuring that Filipino seafarers are equipped to thrive in their demanding profession.