Labor Day marked by blowing of ships’ horns in Cebu ports

CEBU, Philippines — To mark the Labor Day amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, sea vessels on anchorage in Cebu did a simultaneously blowing of horns at 12 noon yesterday.

The activity was in support of the call of International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) for all seafarers around the globe to sound their ship's horns in recognition of their significant contribution to the world trade and global commerce.

Cebu Port Authority (CPA) General Manager Leonilo Miole said that the undertaking aims to give honor and due recognition to the very important role of seafarers and port workers especially in the movement and delivery of food, fuel, medicine and other basic and essential commodities and other supplies.

“This is also our way of conveying our message of thanks and gratitude to all port frontliners amid this COVID-19 situation for their unselfish and untiring service despite the risk to their health just to ensure the unhampered flow of cargoes through our ports and with their continued service and the cooperation of everyone, with God's grace, We shall Heal As One,” said Miole.

The Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines also supported the activity.

“The Associated Labor Unions (ALU-TUCP) is an affiliate in the Philippines of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and has also been supporting this call from the beginning,” said ITF coordinator, Atty. Joselito “Boyet” Pedaria.

On the occasion of the Labor Day, the ALU-TUCP thanked every frontliner who remained at the service of humanity during this crisis.

“We thank all workers for producing goods and rendering services, and for being critical co-creators of the wealth of the world,” said Gerard Seno, ALU National Executive Vice-President.

Seno is hoping that everyone will be able to survive, recover and live a more just and humane conditions of work in the new normal.  FPL (FREEMAN)