Philippines joins world in celebrating Maritime Week 2019

PH joins world in celebrating Maritime Week 2019
RAFFY AYENG September 25, 2019 https://www.manilatimes.net/2019/09/25/business/maritime-business/ph-joi...

Improving the participation of women in society leads to better social and economic outcomes.

This is the core message of the world maritime regulator International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the week-long celebration of maritime industries in the world, including that in the Philippines, a signatory to the IMO.

In a statement, IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim highlighted the relevant role of women in the world’s maritime industry.

“So, it is critical that women are provided with equal access to opportunities at all levels and within all sectors of the maritime industry. Experience shows that, when they are given those opportunities, women are strong and successful — continually challenging old-fashioned and outdated perceptions and proving that, today, the maritime industries are for everyone. It’s not about your gender, it’s about what you can do,” Lim said in a parallel celebration in Colombia.

The World Maritime theme for 2019, “Empowering women in the maritime community,” was a prominent theme throughout the high-level event in emphasizing the relevance of the United Nations agenda for sustainable development, with its associated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Lim highlighted the challenges ahead — including the needs for action to combat climate change as presented in IMO’s initial strategy — as well as the opportunities for a sector which drives global trade and development.

“The global shipping sector is essential for a sustainable future. But maritime activities themselves need to be sustainable — and an important part of IMO’s role is to ensure that shipping continues to make its contribution to global trade and development in a sustainable way,” Lim said.