The ALMA Maritime Group, together with host company Tsakos Maritime Philippines, recently held a collaborative dinner that brought together key stakeholders from both the private and government sectors. The event was held at SuperSam, creating a comfortable setting for open discussion and meaningful interaction within the maritime community.

The gathering was attended by manning executives, industry partners, and government representatives. Jerome Pampolina, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers, served as the guest of honor. Officials from the Maritime Industry Authority were also present, including Herbert Nalupan and Presca Lee, showing strong support from the regulatory side of the industry.

More than just a social event, the dinner became a space where real concerns were shared. Manning executives were able to speak openly about current challenges, especially those affecting Filipino seafarers working in high-risk areas. A key moment of the evening was the discussion between ALMA Chairperson Iris Baguilat and Assistant Secretary Pampolina.

One of the main topics raised was the situation in the Middle East and the possible impact if the Strait of Hormuzbecomes unsafe or restricted. Many expressed concern about the safety of crews onboard and the difficulty of arranging repatriation if conditions worsen. These are real issues that affect not just operations, but the lives of seafarers and their families.

Assistant Secretary Pampolina shared updates on the steps being taken by the government. He explained that coordination is ongoing between agencies, manning companies, and shipowners to make sure there are clear plans in place. This includes preparation for emergency situations, support for affected crews, and proper communication channels to respond quickly if needed. His responses helped ease some concerns and gave a clearer picture of how the government is preparing for possible developments.

The discussion showed how important it is for both the private sector and government to stay connected, especially during uncertain times. It also highlighted the shared responsibility of protecting Filipino seafarers wherever they are deployed.

The event was described as a success, highlighting not only the productive discussions but also the strong sense of unity among attendees. The combination of quality dining, open and constructive dialogue, and active participation made the gathering both meaningful and relevant, further strengthening collaboration across the maritime industry.