CONSUL GENERAL FERRER ADVOCATES FOR THE WELFARE OF SEAFARERS, CELEBRATES DAY OF THE SEAFARER
(R-L) Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer, Mr. Robert Wilkins, and Vice Consul Glaiza M. Quarteros (San Francisco PCG Photo)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – In celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the Day of the Seafarer, Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer visited the Seafarers’ Ministry of the Golden Gate at the International Ministry Center (SMGG-at-the-IMC) and met with Mr. Robert Wilkins, SMGG-at-the-IMC Director of Programs and Executive Director, on 18 June 2025, to discuss key ways to support and improve the welfare of seafarers.
Consul General Ferrer emphasized the vital role of seafarers for the Philippines’ trade and economic engagements both domestically and internationally.
Mr. Wilkins shared the work they do for the welfare of the seafarers, including ship visits, provision of facilities to rest in and practice religious acts such as prayers, meditation, and self-reflection, provision of necessities such as food, toiletries, and other hygiene products, and transportation for shopping and sightseeing. In order to further address the seafarers’ needs, the organization plans to expand and improve its facilities.
Consul General Ferrer commended Mr. Wilkins and offered assistance in sharing information about the SMGG-at-the-IMC with various Filipino American community groups which may be interested in supporting or volunteering in the work of the organization.
In commemoration of the Day of the Seafarer on 25 June, SMGG co-organized a soccer game at the Oakland Coliseum between the Oakland Roots Sports Club, an American professional soccer club based in Oakland, California, and the Monterey Bay Football Club, an American professional soccer team based in Monterey County, California. Twenty percent of the ticket proceeds will be allocated to support programs benefiting seafarers at SMGG.
Consul General Ferrer and Mr. Wilkins shared the view that ensuring the well-being of seafarers is a meaningful way to honor their sacrifices, for their families and for their respective countries.
In 2010, Consul General Ferrer served as the President of the Diplomatic Conference to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW Convention). The International Maritime Organization (IMO) convened the Manila Conference to adopt a comprehensive set of amendments to the STCW Convention and Code. The Conference also adopted a resolution nominating June 25 of each year as the Day of the Seafarer. END
Consul General Ferrer and Mr. Wilkins discussed matters of mutual concern and interest with regard to the seafarers (San Francisco PCG photo)