Author: Alexa Mae Bautista
The 26th National Maritime Week, observed around September 22, 2023, was guided by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) theme, “Our Ocean. Our Obligation. Our Opportunity.” Activities held across the country emphasized appreciation for seafarers, the importance of marine environmental protection, and the preservation of the nation’s maritime heritage—highlighting the shared responsibility of industry stakeholders in promoting sustainable maritime growth.
As part of the celebration, Sea Power Shipping proudly joined the National Maritime Week festivities in Cebu, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Filipino seafarers and the broader maritime community. By taking part in activities that honor seafarers and promote responsible ocean stewardship, Sea Power underscored its dedication to industry collaboration, maritime excellence, and the continued growth of the Philippine shipping sector.
Filipino seafarers remain a cornerstone of international shipping and global commerce, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of goods worldwide. Their continued contributions reinforce the Philippines’ reputation as a leading source of highly skilled maritime professionals and underscore the importance of recognizing and investing in the welfare and development of the nation’s seafaring workforce.
Sea Power Shipping Company conducted APE
What Is The Seafarer’s Identity Document (SID)?
The SID is used to;
Obtain a proof of the bearer’s eligibility for visa waiver
to identify a bearer as a genuine seafarer who may be entitled to transit with his/her passport at ports and border crossing, as well as to shore leave even without a visa.
PURPOSES OF THE SEAFARER’S IDENTITY DOCUMENT
- Enhance Maritime Safety and Security To provide for safety and security of maritime industry, which handles 90% of global trade To support Government as they take measure to strengthen their boarders against the threat of international terrorism
- Accurate Determination of Seafarer’s Industry To ensure global interoperability & reliability of seafarer’s identification To provide the blueprint for creating and issuing secure national identity documents and international recognition of the reliability of the documents issued
- Facilitate Maritime Transport To minimize the formalities, documentary requirements & procedures associated with the arrival, stay, shore, leave, transit and departure of seafarers onboard ships on international voyages
- Ensure Seafarer’s Professional Life To ensure that the privileges of facilitated border crossing for shore leave, transit, transfer and repatriation are provided only to genuine seafarers as part of the basic rights of Seafarers int he conduct of their profession.