By CHRISTOPHER DE VERA
“We count on you being' there,
twenty four hours around the clock,
Protecting' us everywhere
The more I get around this world,
The more I realize that the greatest force
found anywhere
Is right before my eyes…”
ABOVE is an excerpt from the song “The Great Defender” by Lee Greenwood.
Being a mariner is wonderful yet challenging. They travel to different countries, search their journeys and meet different kinds of people. They are also able to try varieties of food from various cultures; but most of all; their families enjoy the benefits of their hard works.
On other end, the biggest challenge a seafarer encounters is dealing with moments away from loved ones—just travelling and working.
Life is not easy inside the ship. Seafarers are experiencing an almost incurable problem called homesickness. Worse, is when they are not given the chance to see their children grow because of their jobs.
Worst, is when children hardly recognize them as a “father.”
Not to mention fire, seafarers’ worst enemy is the predictable unpredictable waters. Typhoons and the fury they unleash can easily wipe out anything that is on the sea surface in an instant, and that includes boats and ships.
Although they are trained well to deal with onboard problems, no one has ever had the strength to win over the forces of the elements.
Happiness only comes when the ship reaches the shore, as seafarers will again get in touch with their loved ones. Coming aboard, sailing, going back then sail again—this is a seafarer’s life.
This is the proof of their strength and brevity. Being Filipinos, mariners are known to be the most industrious sea persons among others.
The maritime industry is one of the major sources of U.S. dollar remittances that surely contribute to the growth of the Philippine economy.
Currently, maritime organizations in the Philippines are hosting activities, events and programs that will make Filipino seafarers highly competitive. In doing so, Filipino seamen will be able to meet standard requirements prior to sailing.
Truly, Filipino seafarers are modern heroes of our country.
As a student of the PNTC Colleges, I am inspired to be part of the next generation of Filipino seafarers.
I salute all Filipino Seafarers for their immeasurable years of continuous service!
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