Onboard, several crew members sent short video greetings and shared their thoughts on what a respectful and harassment-free ship means in practice. These responses were compiled into a short video shared internally and across Odfjell’s social media sites.
Thomas Rey Joseph Ang, Deck Cadet, Bow Cedar:
“A harassment-free ship is not just well-run, it’s well held; held in integrity, held in vigilance, held in the quiet everyday decisions that make safety more than a checklist.”
Nothando Wandile Mzolo, Deck Cadet, Bow Cecil:
“Cultural sensitivity. DIfferences in background are respected.”
Windele Vic Carace, Mess Boy, Bow Trident:
“In the galley, every voice is heard, every individual is valued, and the only pressure we face is the head of the stove, not the weight of discrimination and disrespect.”
Aldwin Padilla, Bosun, Bow Prosper:
“Respect for personal boundaries.”
In Manila, visiting seafarers were welcomed with a series of practical and appreciation-focused activities. A Pag-IBIG Help Desk was set up to assist with membership checks, benefit inquiries, and loan-related questions.
The Bow Fitness Booth offered free health checks and personal wellness consultations, tailored to the needs of seafarers. A simple raffle rounded out the event, with Odfjell merchandise given to randomly selected participants.
Held every June 25, the Day of the Seafarer recognizes the vital role seafarers play in global trade and maritime operations. This year’s theme emphasized the connection between respect, safety, and a positive working culture onboard.
