The Philippine maritime industry is reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity as it celebrates International Women’s Month, recognizing women’s contributions as essential to the sector’s future growth.
Leadership as Service
Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan has emphasized that leadership in the maritime sector should prioritize service over self-validation. “Being a woman in leadership isn’t about proving yourself—it’s about lifting others as you rise,” Malaluan stated, highlighting agency efforts to support women in the traditionally male-dominated field and recognize their technical expertise.
Women Central to Maritime Evolution
Merle Jimenez-San Pedro, President of Women in Maritime Philippines (WimaPhil), noted that women are no longer peripheral figures in shipping but are central to its evolution. “Today, we celebrate the dedication, power, strength, and contributions of women in maritime,” Jimenez-San Pedro said. “Women have always been at the heart of our families and society—they are leaders, mentors, innovators, and changemakers in this male-dominated industry.”
She added that the impact of women spans from grassroots community building to high-level industrial leadership, and their influence is a vital catalyst for the welfare of the global seafaring workforce.
Embracing Diversity and Mentorship
Mary Ann Pastrana of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp. (APFC) said the month-long observance serves as a “vital reflection on how far we’ve come in the traditionally male-dominated maritime and logistics industries.” Pastrana highlighted that the rise of women as captains, engineers, and leaders demonstrates that opportunity should be open to all.
“By embracing diverse perspectives, we don’t just achieve equality; we build a stronger, safer, and more sustainable maritime industry,” she added. “However, progress requires more than words—it demands a commitment to mentorship and inclusive workplaces.” The goal, according to Pastrana, is to ensure the next generation of women sees a clear path to success, ensuring the entire maritime community moves forward together.
Philippine Ports Authority Initiatives
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is marking the occasion under the theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” with the sub-theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas,” drawing inspiration from ancestral spiritual leaders to recognize the intelligence and compassion women bring to modern governance.
Officials describe the initiative as a way to honor a legacy where authority is grounded in wisdom and community responsibility. PPA General Manager Jay Santiago has decentralized these ideals through its Port Management Offices (PMOs), with local activities including the “Takbo at Serbisyo para kay Juana” Fun Run in Batangas and gender-fair language sessions in Agusan, designed to strengthen Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives.
The PPA launched a new GAD logo and a new mascot, Engineer Tala, to institutionalize representation. The logo uses symbols such as a lighthouse and the North Star to represent guidance and stability, while Engineer Tala serves as a relatable icon of female competence in port engineering. Appearing alongside the established mascot Pepe Asensado, Tala signals a shift toward a more representative organizational identity.
Department of Transportation Advocacy
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is reinforcing these values through the #SaferforHER initiative, which aims to remove barriers to entry and advancement. The DOTr has called on the industry to “speak louder and stand stronger for a world where women are recognized as essential in building an inclusive and progressive society,” focusing on ensuring dignity for all women across the entire transport system.
This collective effort aims to make the journey toward maritime progress a shared success.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
