THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) joined the global observance of World Maritime Day by lighting the MOA Globe in blue on Sept. 24, underscoring the importance of safe, secure, and environmentally sustainable shipping and recognizing the vital role of Filipino seafarers in global trade.
Through its Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office (MOAO), the DFA partnered with SM Mall of Asia for the lighting activity, held in solidarity with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) global blue-lighting initiative.
World Maritime Day 2026 carried the IMO theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,” which focuses on translating international maritime rules and standards into effective national legislation, enforcement, and day-to-day operations. The IMO said the theme seeks to promote safer, more resilient, efficient, and environmentally sustainable shipping.
The blue lighting also highlighted the contribution of Filipino seafarers, who help keep international trade and supply chains moving despite the risks associated with working at sea. The IMO’s 2026 observance placed particular emphasis on protecting seafarers amid geopolitical tensions and conflicts affecting maritime routes.
DFA Assistant Secretary Emmanuel Donato Guzman led MOA personnel who gathered to support the activity.
The initiative was part of the Philippine observance of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo) 2026, held every September under Presidential Proclamation (PD) 316, issued in 2017. The proclamation calls for government agencies, local governments, and the private sector to undertake activities that raise public awareness of maritime and archipelagic issues.
This year’s MANA Mo theme, “Karapatan sa Karagatan, Sama-Sama Nating Alagaan” (Together Upholding Our Maritime Rights), emphasizes shared responsibility for protecting the country’s maritime domain and marine heritage.
The DFA said its partnership with SM Mall of Asia was intended to bring the message of MANA Mo to a wider public and promote greater appreciation of the Philippines’ identity and responsibilities as a maritime and archipelagic nation.
