Ilonggo Seafarers Share Life Lessons at Sea

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Filipino seafarers answer the call of the ocean with courage, faith, and a deep sense of sacrifice.

They leave their families behind as they navigate unpredictable seas, driven by love, duty, and the pursuit of a better life.

The maritime industry is a cornerstone of global trade, kept afloat by ships transporting goods and essentials across continents.

Seafarers—vital to maritime transport—help fuel national economies, particularly through overseas remittances.

Despite this crucial role, the weight of responsibility on their shoulders is immense, spanning technical operations, safety protocols, and personal challenges.

From maritime schools and training centers to onboard experience, seafarers build their potential through grit and constant learning.

As the world marks the Day of the Seafarer on June 25, Ilonggo mariners reflect on their journeys of resilience, sacrifice, and growth.

Capt. Edward Grecia, a native of Iloilo City, recalled navigating Cape Horn in southern Chile amid towering 12-meter waves, harsh winds, and poor visibility.

“It would have been extremely dangerous for the crew and the ship to continue on its original course,” he said, noting a change in route after careful evaluation.

He believes leadership requires flexibility, saying, “Every person is unique and each circumstance necessitates a different strategy.”

“By being consistent, respectful, and communicating clearly, I try to set the tone,” Capt. Grecia added.

He praised Ilonggo seafarers for their calm demeanor and strong work ethic, which foster teamwork and resilience.

“Despite their humility, many Ilonggos are willing to step up when called upon,” he said.

Second Officer Benjamin Baduya once dreamed of becoming a soldier, but his childhood curiosity about large homes along Iloilo’s southern roads led him to the maritime path.

“When I learned they were owned by seafarers, the dream grew on me,” Baduya said.

As a navigating officer, he plans voyages, checks weather forecasts, and ensures safe routes—duties that demand precision and vigilance.

With 17 years in the industry, Baduya said, “Family is everything. Mental health is a thing, especially in seafaring.”

“No amount of money can ever cover up those times when you should’ve been there with your family,” he added.

Second Engineer Mark Louie Nirza, from Pavia, Iloilo, emphasized adaptability, especially when working with multicultural crews.

“Some jobs require thinking outside the box, and others need dealing with people who see things differently,” he said.

He urged aspiring mariners to prepare for financial uncertainty, as seafaring is typically contract-based.

“To prepare for the future, save and invest your hard-earned dollars,” Nirza advised, “but don’t forget to reward yourself for enduring challenges onboard.”

Ralph Oliver Ejeda, an oiler on a bulk vessel, channels his income into agriculture during his breaks.

Passionate about farming, Ejeda hopes to retire from seafaring and build a sustainable livelihood on land.

He dreams of no longer enduring long voyages and instead reaping the fruits of his labor at home.

Seafaring offers not just career advancement but also personal growth through exposure to global cultures and high-pressure situations.

Yet, what anchors seafarers most is family—their reason for pushing forward despite the hardships at sea.

Through video calls, photos, and messages, they remain emotionally connected, counting the days until they can be home again.

And as they navigate new horizons, they carry with them the hope that one day, there will be no more goodbyes.