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| (Image Source: GMA Network) |
GMA Pinoy TV, The Heart of Global Pinoys, honored the hard work, resilience, and contributions of Filipino seafarers with the first-ever Pinoys At Sea: Seafarers' Family Day which was held last September 19, 2026 at Max's Restaurant in Scout Tuazon, Quezon City, bringing seafarers and their families for a day of learning, connection, and entertainment.
Welcoming the Filipino seafarers and their families were GMA Network First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia joined by Home2US Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Emrah Ozkan. "Where goes the family, so goes the nation. When families are strengthened, communities are transformed. Through the GMA Pinoy TV Pinoys At Sea, we celebrate our seafarers and their families as catalysts of this transformation — turning sacrifice into opportunity, shared learning into growth, and meaningful moments like this event into a better future for all,” said Francia. Guests at the GMA Pinoy TV's Pinoys At Sea: Seafarers' Family Day 2026 also enjoyed discussions on mental health and entrepreneurship led by broadcast journalists Connie Sison and Susan Enriquez, respectively. Meanwhile, former Undersecretary Art Valdez, expedition leader of the Balangay Voyages and co-chair of the construction of the Butuan Balangay replica, encouraged them to help revive the seafaring pride of ancient Filipinos. Sparkle artists Matt Lozano and Therese Malvar, from the GMA Afternoon Prime sports series Kamao, and Ronnie Liang also joined the celebration and delighted guests with musical performances. The event also featured interactive panel discussions on key issues affecting Filipino seafarers and their families.
Kahit Malayo, Malapit Pa Rin: Strengthening Parenting and Family Bonds Across Distance covered parenting and family relationships, moderated by Bong and Claire Pineda along with Philippine Transmarine Carriers Inc. (PTC) Manager for Family and Crew Relations Normita "Normie" Hernandez; SEAFAM International representative Christina Cerrero; seasoned maritime professional, educator, trainer, and MARINA internal auditor Capt. Marito Lim Molino; and maritime professional and VAV Studios founder Van Villanueva. Meanwhile, Sa Layag Ng Kita: Smart Financial Planning For Seafarers And Their Families, moderated by PHILSME and Expo Philippines (ECOMEX) Media Director Angie Balibay, explored practical ways to build long-term financial security with panelists that included Philippine Transmarine Carriers Inc. Executive Director for Business Development and Senior Vice President (SVP) for Cruise Operations Maria Katherine "Karen' Avelino, maritime professional and content creator Rinell Banda, RK Franchise Consultancy and the Filipino International Franchise Association (FIFA) President Sheena Kay Kotik, and Deeds Inknovate Training Center Founder and Operations Manager Evangeline "Vangie" Dones.
Finally, Okay Lang Magpahinga: Prioritizing Mental Health For Seafarers And Their Families, moderated by GMA International Digital Marketing Manager and The GMA Pinoy TV Podcast host Tonie Pua, highlighted the importance of mental health and access to support systems for seafarers and their families with AMOSUP Hospital Pre-Employment Medical Division Company and Examining Physician Dr. Teopisto A. Rigonan, PHILCAMSAT and Philippine Transmarine Carriers Inc. Behavioral Program Head Mark Que, International Seafarers' Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) Philippine Country Manager Marville Cullen P. Espago, and Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) President Dr. John Manuel Kliatchko. Guests also won exciting raffle prizes such as GMA Affordabox units, gift certificates, and many more giveaways from GMA Pinoy TV.
GMA Pinoy TV's tribute to Filipino seafarers and their families is in recognition of the sacrifices they continue to make in pursuit of better lives for their loved ones, while also celebrating the resilience and strength of Global Pinoys around the world. GMA Pinoy TV's first-ever family day for seafarers further underscores its commitment to creating meaningful platforms that can forge deeper connections, shared learning, and stronger communities among Filipinos wherever they may be. The GMA Pinoy TV's Pinoys At Sea: Seafarers' Family Day 2026 was made possible through the support of event partners Home2US Communications and Max's Restaurant.
