Davao City – The Crew and Family Well-Fair took place on March 16, 2024, at the Acacia Hotel, bringing together seafarers and their families for a day of recognition, learning, and camaraderie.
The event commenced with a captivating ethnic presentation by Mugnapak Performing Arts, setting the stage for an enriching day ahead. Mr. Svend Foyn-Bruun, Vice President for Maritime Personnel Section, extended a warm welcome, emphasizing the critical role of family support in seafarers' mental health and well-being, alongside highlighting the company's significant achievements over the past year.
The highlight of the ceremony was the 25 Years of Exceptional Loyalty & Service Awarding Ceremony, honoring exemplary individuals who have dedicated their careers to maritime service. Among the esteemed awardees were Captain Edwin Hernandez, recognized for his unwavering dedication and professionalism since 1995, and Motorman Junie Pusidio, whose 25 years of loyal service exemplify commitment and excellence.
The day continued with engaging workshops and activities designed to enhance crew safety and well-being. Compliance Auditor Captain Jerry Cadianza and HSSEQ Administrator Stephanie Gutierrez led a Crew Safety Workshop, fostering a culture of incident awareness and proactive safety measures among the seafarers and the cadets that the opportunity join the workshop. Meanwhile, the children of seafarers enjoyed an entertaining session with Ms. Jymmez Severino, featuring storytelling and educational toys.
Professional Life Coach Narciso Kintanar Jr. delivered an empowering talk underscoring the pivotal role of seafarers as modern-day heroes and the importance of family support in navigating the challenges of maritime life. Additionally, Kintanar provided valuable insights on financial literacy, equipping attendees with practical knowledge for smart money management and investment.
Ms. Olive De Vera, Crew and Family Affairs Team Lead, discussed the organizational structure of Odfjell's Crewing Department, shedding light on the recruitment process, training initiatives, and claims handling procedures. Representatives from Magsaysay Houlder Insurance Brokers, Inc. (MHIBI) explained crucial aspects of medical health insurance, ensuring comprehensive coverage for crew members and their families.
Addressing the critical issue of mental health, Registered Psychometrician Benamina Plaza from Davao Doctors' Hospital offered valuable insights into the challenges faced by seafarers and strategies for coping and support.
Interactive games and prizes kept the atmosphere lively and engaging, fostering a sense of community and celebration throughout the event. The cadets also surprised the audience with an entertaining dance number and serenaded the guests with their own rendition of Filipino band Rivermaya’s ‘You’ll Be Safe Here.’
In her closing remarks, President and General Manager of Odfjell Philippines Inc., Ms. Agnes Enesio, expressed gratitude to all participants for their unwavering support and commitment, reaffirming the company's dedication to prioritizing the well-being of its crew and their families.
The Crew and Family Well-Fair stands as a testament to Odfjell Philippines' unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of safety, support, and appreciation within the maritime community, ensuring that the invaluable contributions of seafarers are celebrated and recognized.
