The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) has commemorated 10 years of dedicated service to seafarers and their families in the Philippines. From its humble beginnings as a volunteer-led initiative in partnership with the Philippine Independent Church, the Mission’s presence in the country has evolved into a professional, globally connected support network.

The MtS Philippines journey began in 2014, establishing a family support network (FSN) inspired by the need to provide support to seafarers' families. Initially sustained by volunteers and seven local chapters, the network organised community events such as Sea Sunday and International Seafarers Day activities to help unite families and build community resilience. By 2019, the program had taken a significant step forward, transitioning into a professional model with full-time trained staff, safeguarding policies, and structured management processes to enhance its reach and effectiveness.

This shift enabled the Mission to significantly expand its footprint and services across the Philippines. Today, the family support network boasts 17 chapters and 120 dedicated volunteers nationwide, offering comprehensive welfare assistance. From tackling financial and employment issues to supporting families during natural disasters, the team has been at the forefront of addressing the evolving needs of seafarers and their loved ones. The Mission team in the Philippines not only delivers ‘in country’ support but also serves as a global hub and a source of support for any seafarers worldwide with a link to the Philippines.

The Mission to Seafarers Philippines Family Support Network team leadership training 2024

The Mission’s program in the Philippines has grown and now delivers professional training and specialised services. Free training initiatives such as SafeTALK, a suicide prevention course and the WeCare Financial and Social Wellbeing courses equip seafarers and their families with critical skills, while partnerships with companies in the industry such as the UK P&I Club, Shipowners Association, Pacific Basin and others have helped to fund some of these courses, make them available on the relevant channels and also deliver special seafarer-focused events.

In 2023, the Mission went on to introduce annual leadership training sessions in Manila and IIoilo, investing in volunteer skill development to strengthen the organisation’s impact. With an eye on the future, MtS Philippines aims to further cement its reputation as a trusted charity and global brand for all seafarers and their families.

Thomas O'Hare, Programme Manager at The Mission to Seafarers, said: "The Mission to Seafarers Philippines and its family support network programme has become integral to the Mission to Seafarers’ global presence and operations. We aim to provide essential welfare assistance to seafarers and their families in the Philippines and connecting them globally. I am proud of the team in Manila and the 120 more volunteers across the Philippines. Their dedication to the people we serve is both humbling and inspiring. We have achieved so much in these past 10 years, and I look forward to seeing what we can do in the future.

The 10-year anniversary of the Mission to Seafarers has been marked by celebratory events, bringing together the MtS Philippines community of volunteers, supporters, seafarers and families. This recently included a celebration for International Seafarer's Day through a Seafarers' Welfare Forum and the FSN Chapters' Regional Leadership training.

As MtS Philippines grows, its services remain borderless, connecting seafarers and families wherever possible. By building relationships with all maritime stakeholders, including major shipowners, training institutions, and governments, the Mission aims to extend its reach further and deliver an even more significant impact.