DoLE, DMW laud FAME on its 50th anniversary

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) recognized the contributions and initiatives of the Filipino Association for Mariners' Employment Inc. (FAME) as the latter celebrated its 50th anniversary on Thursday, April 18.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma lauded FAME for its consistency in employing Filipino seafarers.

«For years, Filipino seafarers have been vital in driving global trade, travel and tourism. [The] 2023 [records] show that 578,626 seafarers were deployed. DoLE and the entire government appreciate FAME for its continuing significant contributions in opening productive and remunerative employment opportunities for Filipino seafarers as well as showcasing the qualities of Filipino workers and elevating the status of the Philippines as a respected source of highly reliable and competent sailors of the high seas,» Laguesma said.

FAME officers and board of directors during the 50th anniverdary of the biggest manning association in the country. PHOTO BY WILMAR ALMERIA

He also commended FAME for its resiliency in adapting to an increasingly competitive knowledge-based and technology-driven global labor market.

Meanwhile, Hans Leo Cacdac, officer in charge of the DMW, called for a stronger partnership with FAME to assist seafarers and their families as they face the dangers of shipping in sea lanes that are declared «war-like zones.»

«We call for a stronger partnership with FAME as a committed member of the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council to help in the present crisis the Filipino seafarers face. They are continually exposed to high risk in war-like zones,» Cacdac said.

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He added that the DMW is giving the highest priority to the safety and welfare of seafarers and their families.

«With the combined efforts of the government and the private sector, it will be more effective, robust and easier to help their families through their most difficult times,» he said.

Cacdac also lauded FAME for being one of the founding members of the International Advisory Committee on Global Maritime Affairs, an initiative of the late Migrant Workers Secretary Susan «Toots» Ople to address issues impacting