ISWAN and the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) formalize their partnership during the BAYANiHAN Seminar in Manila held on November 10, 2025.
On November 10, 2025, ISWAN and the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the BAYANiHAN: Reframing Mental Health – A Filipino Perspective at Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central. The partnership marks a step forward in strengthening welfare support, enhancing maritime research, and expanding education and assistance for Filipino seafarers.
The signing was attended by ISWAN – Philippines Country Manager Maville Espago, ISWAN Chair of the Board of Trustees René Andersen, ISWAN Trustee Mike Esplago, NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario, and NMP Maritime Research and Development Division Head Elena Santos.
The collaboration aligns two organizations with a strong, shared mission: to improve the lives of Filipino seafarers through research, advocacy, and accessible welfare services.
During his message, NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario emphasised the importance of the new collaboration, stating:
“Through this collaboration, we not only strengthen data-driven policy and program development, but also provide a tangible avenue of support for the mental health and wellbeing of our seafarers. These efforts ensure that Filipino seafarers are not only highly skilled, but also mentally resilient, supported, and cared for.”
As part of the agreement, ISWAN will provide anonymized helpline data for integration into NMP’s Philippine Maritime Workforce Factbook, helping build a clearer picture of the welfare needs and challenges faced by seafarers.
NMP, in turn, will help amplify ISWAN’s free helpline and welfare resources across its platforms, ensuring that seafarers and their families have access to much-needed support.
Both ISWAN and NMP reaffirm their commitment to empowering Filipino seafarers, who continue to play an indispensable role in global shipping and trade. With aligned vision and shared values, this partnership paves the way for more impactful initiatives that uplift, educate, and support the maritime community.
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