Tacloban City – In celebration of the 30th Migrant Workers’ Day, the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) conducted a series of special programs and activities in honor of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), particularly the Filipino seafarers, whose hard work, resilience, and unwavering dedication continue to be a cornerstone of the country’s economic progress.
The celebration featured an impactful Financial Literacy Seminar aimed at equipping OFWs with practical knowledge on effective money management and financial decision-making. The seminar empowered participants to protect themselves and their families from financial exploitation and scams, while also providing essential tools for achieving long-term financial stability—especially crucial for migrant workers navigating the challenges of working abroad.
In his keynote address, Atty. Jerome T. Pampolina, Assistant Secretary for Sea-Based OFW Concerns of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), commended NMP’s proactive efforts in aligning its training and services with the real needs of Filipino seafarers and OFWs. Atty. Pampolina stated.
NMP’s Executive Director, Victor A. Del Rosario, expressed strong support for the celebration and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to OFW welfare. “This milestone celebration is more than a tribute; it is a call to action. At NMP, we ensure that our programs and services are responsive, relevant, and rooted in the realities faced by our seafarers and the entire maritime workforce. As we honor their sacrifices, we also strive to equip them with knowledge, skills, and protection they rightfully deserve,” said Del Rosario.
After the seminar, the NMP Training Staff organized a dynamic and engaging water safety challenge for the trainees, highlighting their swimming skills and proficiency in using various lifesaving equipment. Trainees participated in activities such as swimming with a donned life jacket and navigating the water with an immersion suit, demonstrating both competence and confidence in emergency survival techniques. The activity not only energized the participants but also added a vibrant and interactive element to the celebration.
Following the water-based activities, a traditional boodle fight brought together NMP trainees, key officials, and staff in a shared meal that fostered camaraderie and community spirit. The casual and festive setting served as a fitting conclusion to the day’s events, emphasizing unity and mutual respect among those who support and serve the maritime industry.
The Migrant Workers’ Day celebration at NMP is part of the institution’s broader mandate to serve as a key training and research arm of the Philippine government for the development of globally competitive maritime professionals. The agency remains committed to supporting Filipino seafarers throughout their journey—from pre-employment to reintegration.
For more information about NMP programs and services, visit https://nmp.gov.ph, register online at https://register.nmp.gov.ph, access the e-Research Portal at https://research.nmp.gov.ph, and follow NMP on Facebook at https://facebook.com/nmptrainingcenter.