2 Filipino seafarers to receive ‘bravery at sea’ award

TWO FILIPINO seafarers will soon be recognized for their part in saving lives at sea through the Maritime Industry Authority’s (MARINA) ‘Exceptional Bravery at Sea’ awards 2021. 

In a Facebook post, MARINA said Capt. Melvin Villanueva of MV FLEUR N and Second Officer Lacruser Relativo of MV ANGELES were nominated, scrutinized by its assessment panel, and were awarded the "highest recognition".

“The online search for the ten Exceptional Bravery at Sea Awardees was established to acknowledge the effort of seafarers who, at the risk of losing their own life, displayed outstanding courage by attempting to save the lives of others or prevent further damage to the marine environment,” MARINA said.

Villanueva, it said, was nominated by the KJCM Maritime Corporation and was recognized for his “professionalism and leadership” while commanding the search and rescue operations for 86 refugees that were found drifting in the Mediterranean Sea.

“Capt. Villanueva also highlighted the contributions of his fellow officers and crew members, stating that the success of the search and rescue effort would not have been possible without his colleagues,” MARINA added.

On the other hand, Relativo was nominated by the PTC Group of Companies after he saved the life of Stuart Bee who was adrift at sea for two days with his boat “almost capsized.”

Relativo said the rescue was something “he will never forget” and emphasized that it was similar to the stories of many individuals who are seeking refuge in other countries.

Aside from receiving the award, it said both Villanueva and Relativo will be given “lifelong priority” when processing Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW)-related applications at the MARINA Central Office, MARINA regional offices, and satellite offices across the country.

“The officers and crew of MV FLEUR N will also be given priority lane when applying for any of the STCW-related certificates in all the MARINA Offices as a token of appreciation for their exemplary teamwork, dedication, and professionalism,” MARINA said.

The ceremony for the awards, it said, will be held on Friday to celebrate the National Maritime Week 2021. (Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)