DMW assures support to Filipino seafarers during Vancouver port call

DMW assures support to Filipino seafarers during Vancouver port call
Marita Moaje July 6, 2026 https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1278752

WELFARE CHECK. Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac (3rd from right) meets with Filipino crew members of Tauranga Maersk at the Port of Vancouver, Canada in an undated photo. The DMW on Monday (July 6, 2026) said Cacdac checked on the Filipino seafarers' welfare, discussed their working conditions, and shared updates on government programs for Filipino seafarers. (Photo courtesy of DMW)
MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has renewed its commitment to protecting Filipino seafarers in a series of engagements in Vancouver, Canada

In a social media post Monday, the DMW said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac made a courtesy visit to the Mission to Seafarers in Vancouver, and personally checked on the welfare of the 22-member crew aboard the Tauranga Maersk, 16 of whom are Filipinos.

In his meeting with Reverend Peter Smyth, Senior Port Chaplain, he thanked the mission for its partnership with the DMW and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Vancouver in promoting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers in Canada.

“The physical and spiritual health concerns are very important to our Filipino seafarers, and we are glad to have the Mission to Seafarers as our partner in providing care, counseling, and support to them while on port call,” he said.

The Mission to Seafarers in Vancouver is a center that provides transiting international seafarers with welfare services, including chaplain services, emergency support and ship visit assistance.

Meanwhile, at his port call to Tauranga Maersk, Cacdac listened to the Filipino seafarers’ concerns, discussed their working conditions and shared updates on the DMW programs and services for them, including upskilling and career development initiatives in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Maritime Industry Authority.

He assured the crew that the DMW stands ready to respond not only to work-related concerns but also to issues affecting their families in the Philippines.

“We understand the challenges of working far from your families. If you have any concerns, especially those involving your loved ones back home, please let us know. The DMW is ready to assist you through our 16 regional offices and 42 overseas operating posts, including the MWO and OWWA offices here in Vancouver,” he said.

The ship's master, DG Dsouza, welcomed the Philippine delegation and commended the Philippine government's commitment to protecting seafarers, while praising the Filipino crew members for their competence, professionalism, work ethic and leadership potential.

Cacdac was part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s delegation during his official visit to Canada from July 1-4. (PNA)