BEYOND THE HORIZON
JRMSU, OWWA IX Honor Maritime Heroes in 2025 National Seafarers’ Day Celebration

September 25, 2025— In line with the National Seafarers’ Day celebration on September 28, Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) joined hands with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-Regional Welfare Office IX to honor the invaluable contributions of Filipino seafarers. The event was held at the CNAHS AVH, JRMSU Dapitan.

Anchored on the theme “Marinong Filipino: Ating Karagatan, Ating Kabuhayan! Alagaan!”. The celebration paid tribute to the sacrifices of seafarers through inspiring stories, heartfelt testimonies, and knowledge-sharing sessions. OWWA OIC Regional Director Rosalito J. Sultan formally opened the program following the welcome message of SAS Dean Dr. Jay Roslinda.

In his inspirational message, JRMSU Dapitan Campus Director Dr. Patrick G. Galleto emphasized the vital role of seafarer dependents. “While our Filipino seafarers brave the vast oceans, it is you who hold down the fort, providing unwavering love, support, and strength from afar. You are the anchors that keep them grounded, the lighthouses that guide them home, and the safe harbors where they can find solace,” Dr. Galleto expressed.

Meanwhile, 2023 Model OFW of the Year (MOFYA) Regional Winner for the Sea-Based Category, Capt. Moises M. Lara, together with his family, shared a moving testimony of sacrifice and resilience. The program likewise featured a presentation on the Magna Carta for Seafarers by CME Dean 2/M Expedito B. Columnas Jr., along with an inspirational talk by Mr. Jimmy C. Sorabia, a former OFW seafarer turned founder of Kabatan Native Agricultural Farm.

Officially closing the event, OIC-PSD Chief Ms. Maricris Abastas-Torres acknowledged the collaborative efforts of JRMSU through the Office of the Vice President for External Affairs, Linkages, and Resource Generation headed by Dr. Joseph Salvel Campiseño and OWWA. She further reminded seafarer dependents of the importance of maintaining constant family communication and responsible stewardship of OFW remittances.

With the participation of OFW families and dependents, this celebration underscored the shared commitment of OWWA and JRMSU in advocating for the welfare of seafarers and their loved ones, while inspiring future generations to uphold excellence in the maritime sector.
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