Pinoy seafarer awarded in London for 'exceptional bravery'

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino seafarer Vicente Somera was given a certificate of commendation by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the exceptional bravery he had shown on his field of duty.

On August 31, 2014, Somera rescued mariner Steve Collins who jumped overboard from his vessel Enya II to retrieve a messenger line. Somera risked his life to save Collins who was already hypothermic. He even used his own body to protect Collins from being crushed by the swinging ladder in between passing swells.

According to DFA statement, Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Enrique A. Manalo, who is also the country’s permanent representative to the IMO, witnessed the awarding ceremony with Mick Kinley, chief executive officer of the Australian Maritime Safety Agency, which nominated Somera for the award.

“One can only be in awe of Mr. Somera’s willingness to risk his life in order to save a human life at sea,“ Ambassador Manalo said at the ceremony. “His actions are emblematic of Filipino seafarers’ professionalism and dedication to their work,” he added.

Aside from Somera of M/V Lars Maersk, nine other individuals received commendations for various rescues at sea. Somera is the only seafarer cited in this year’s award, all the others being mostly crew members of rescue units. The 2015 Exceptional Bravery at Sea Award was given to Aviation Survival Technician Christopher Leon of the US Coast Guard.

The awarding ceremony held at IMO headquarters in London was presided by IMO Secretary General Koji Sekimizucited.