ISP releases handbook for seafarers

The Integrated Seafarers of the Philippine ( ISP) has launched a handbook for seafarers in celebration of the National Seafarers’ Day, which opens the week- long observance of the National Maritime Week from Sept. 25 to 30.

The book, titled “Gabay ng Marino” and written by ISP president Capt. Gaudencio Morales, aims to guide Filipino seafarers in their journey to becoming successful in their field from their first voyage to making the most of their lives onboard ships while away from their families and friends.

“I wrote the book to guide and empower seafarers economically, socially, spiritually and even prepare their retirement in the coming years,” Morales said at the book launching at New World Hotel in Manila. The event coincided with the ISP Seafarers Family Day celebration last Sept. 20.

Morales explained that the book is divided into three parts – career planning, meeting family needs and dealing with various government agencies.

It tackles seafarers’ career development, professional ethics, standard employment contract, maritime laws, predeparture orientation seminar, port state control and ship inspection, promotion, seagoing service, licensure examination and financial assistance, among others.

“The book is my way of paying back to the seafaring profession and sharing with Filipino seamen what I have learned from work aboard ships. It is also my way of thanking the seafaring profession and maritime industry as a whole,” Morales said.

The Gabay ng Marino is one of the outputs of the Joint Manning Group’s (JMG) Philippine Manning Convention 2015 under the Seafarer’s Welfare and Corporate Social Responsibility Cluster headed by Morales. The JMG is an umbrella organization of independent and established manning associations in the country.