Philippine delegation visits seafarers mission

A TOP-level delegation from the Philippines Embassy in South Africa spent two days in Richards Bay this week as guests of the Mission to Seafarers (MtS), strengthening ties with port authorities and acquainting themselves with the local maritime scenario.

With the vast majority of seafarers that crew vessels entering the port being Filippinos, Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja was keen to know more about the environment they encounter, and the services and help offered them.

She was accompanied by First Secretary & Consul Jim G Minglana and Consular Assistant Gie Q Maano.

Cedric Rautenbach, MtS regional director: Africa and Chaplain Mark Classen, MtS Richards Bay first gave the guests a tour showing the layout of the port before the group was hosted in fine style at RBCT, which has been one of the biggest sponsors and supporters of MtS over many years.

A presentation of the workings of the coal terminal and information sharing was well received, followed by a visit to the Seafarers Centre to show the many amenities and practical services and goods offered to seamen during their port stay.

This, in addition to the counselling, spiritual and other services offered by MtS.

A courtesy call was then made to TNPA where they were met by senior port management officials to discuss issues relating to smooth working relations between MtS and TNPA.

The highlight was a visit to the vessel MV Valiant, where the ambassadorial team interacted with the 22 delighted crew members.

This was followed by a tour of the NSRI Station 19 base, with the obvious link to seafarer safety in the case of shipping disasters.

The day ended with a dinner at a local waterfront restaurant where the full group, including the partners of MtS committee members, dined in style and mementoes of the visit were presented to the ambassador and her staff.

Ambassador Baja expressed her thanks for what is being done by MtS and others in the port to make the sometimes difficult lives of her countrymen away from their homes more bearable.

Enjoying the fellowship at the end of a busy day were (back) Mark Classen, Dave Savides, Luis Meneon, Liz Savides, Sandra Meneon, Cedric Rautenbach, Sam Aston, Pat and Mike Patterson; (front) Eva Classen, Jim G Minglana, Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja, Gie Q Maano and Hedda Aston

The Philippines Embassy trio received mementoes of their visit and expressed gratitude for the important efforts being done on behalf of their seafaring nationals: First Secretary & Consul Jim G Minglana, Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja and Consular Assistant Gie Q Maano

MV Valiant The ambassadorial and MtS members with crew aboard at berth 708

The visit to the Sea Rescue base was much appreciated