Rising above the tides

Wednesday, 01 October 2008 15:37 AJPress

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For any female worker, being a part of a male-dominated industry is more than just tough. Through time, the world has been a witness to the woman’s struggles in the workplace and the hurdles she has to go through in order to support herself and her family, among them discrimination, exploitation, sexual harassment, and being constantly stereotyped as the weaker sex.

The plight of Filipina seafarers is no different from this. It is a reality that affects all migrant workers, even our male workers. They know that they can file a complaint against their employers or co-workers who commit offenses against them, but helplessness would usually get in the way.

But this is where the Filipinos shine—they tend to rise above the tides. But still, they need help to anchor especially during difficult times.

The Philippines is the top supplier of seafarers in the world, yet it has been too slow in safeguarding their rights and in empowering Pinays in the maritime industry. It has not yet even produced a single woman captain to this day.

Being the number one producer of seafarers, the Philippines should match this record with policies that would empower these workers. The job itself is not easy because it involves placing their lives at risk. Hence, they only deserve the best treatment, care and attention possible, no matter which part of the world’s waters they are sailing through.

But knowing the typical Filipino strength and willpower, and the desire to be of help to their families, our seafarers can brave through anything. How much more if they know they have a support from the industry and from their country that they can count on? Just like any migrant worker who sacrifices a lot for his loved ones and helps in strengthening our economy, our seafarers rightfully deserve to feel rewarded for the job that they do. (AJ)

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