By Margaux Ortiz
The Philippine Daily InquirerThe Filipinos' love of baths has been advantageous to the country's seafarers in terms of employment opportunities, according to a top official of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
"Filipinos are recognized for their exceptional hygiene and personal grooming," Roger Peyuan, TESDA deputy director general for field operations, said in a press conference at the Department of Labor and Employment on Friday.
Peyuan added: "
This practice of ours has not escaped shipping companies who appreciate nice-smelling employees."He quipped that Filipinos were well-known for their cleanliness, "in contrast to other nationalities who do not prioritize everyday personal hygiene."
Peyuan also said that aside from their good grasp of the English language, Filipino seafarers are sought after because of their humility and respectfulness.
"Filipino seafarers are also cool-headed and do not figure in many fights or brawls," the TESDA official said.
Peyuan noted that since 1987, the Philippines has been the leading supplier of seafarers to the international market, making it "the manning capital of the world."
He said almost 20 percent of the 1.23 million seafarers worldwide are Filipinos.
"However, despite this large number, not enough of our seamen are able to occupy the position of ship officers," Peyuan said, adding that most of the country's 300,000 seafarers lack the qualifications to be considered for higher positions.
The TESDA official said of the total number of Filipino seamen, only 60,000 are deck officers.
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