ISWAN Philippines successfully concluded the BAYANIHAN Forum at Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central, Binondo, bringing together stakeholders from across the maritime sector to strengthen support systems for the well-being of Filipino seafarers.

The forum continued the spirit of World Mental Health Day and emphasized that caring for mental health is a shared responsibility among government, maritime institutions, companies, and communities. The discussions recognized every seafarer as a bayani a hero whose work sustains families and global trade.

The event explored mental health through the Filipino values of pakikisama (camaraderie), kabutihang-loob (compassion), and pananagutan (collective responsibility), placing cultural identity at the center of seafarer support and care.

The message of Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac was delivered on his behalf by Mr. Augusto B. San Diego III. Director IV, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding seafarer welfare both onboard and ashore.

Key statements were also shared by Ms. Therese Mary Labilles of Pacific Basin Shipping and Mr. Victor Del Rosario, Executive Director III of the National Maritime Polytechnic, underscoring the importance of collaborative development and capacity-building programs.

A Memorandum of Understanding between ISWAN and the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) was also signed to strengthen cooperation in research, welfare initiatives, and professional development

A presentation from the University of the Philippines, led by Mr. Jay A. Yacat, MA, RPSY, introduced “Sikolohiyang Pilipino sa Kontekstong Maritima,” highlighting the relevance of culturally anchored mental health frameworks.

The panel discussion titled “Is there a need to localize maritime mental health?” brought together maritime professionals, mental health practitioners, and seafarer advocates, emphasizing the importance of support systems that reflect Filipino cultural identity and real-life seafaring experience.