Lydia Mar Manila – Malayo Man, Malapit Din (What is distant, is close): A Parenting Seminar for Seafarer Families

Lydia Mar Manila – Malayo Man, Malapit Din (What is distant, is close): A Parenting Seminar for Seafarer Families

Prepared by: Maritime Multipurpose Cooperative

Last September 13, the Maritime Multipurpose Cooperative (MMPC), in partnership with Lydia Mar Manila Inc., successfully hosted “Malayo Man, Malapit Din (What is distance is close) – A Parenting Seminar for Seafarer Families.”  



Maritime Multipurpose Cooperative Listening to Crew in Parenting Seminar

The session was led by experts from the Ateneo Center for Family Ministries (CEFAM): Dr. Cynthia Javier-Gavino, Ms. Maria Gracia Bello-Maquez, and Ms. Catherine Untalan Vital, who shared their valuable knowledge and expertise on family dynamics.

The experts from the Ateneo Center for Family Ministries are presenting to parents.

Parenting tips and strengthening parent-child relationships  
One key takeaway shared during the seminar was that research has shown that distance is not the real determinant of strong parent-child relationships. What truly matters is the quality of connection, which can still thrive even in seafaring families — thanks to today’s digital tools and open communication. The speakers shared the following points:

  • Parenting can be strengthened by using technology wisely to stay connected while minimizing risks
  • Discipline should not be about punishment, but about guidance, fostering responsibility, and encouraging a growth mindset among children  

The event was attended by 47 seafarers and their families, who engaged in discussions, reflections, and practical exercises. It was a safe and supportive space where participants found encouragement and tools to strengthen family bonds despite the distance.  



Strong seafarer families, strong communities  
MMPC believes that strong families build strong communities. This initiative is just one of the many ways the cooperative supports its community in navigating the unique realities of seafaring life.  



All seafarers of Lydia Mar Manila have the privilege of joining the cooperative to avail of its services. Membership is voluntary. To join, email the coop at info@maritimecoop.ph or leave them a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maritimecoop 



We also invited to the event, representatives of the Mission to Seafarers (MtS) Philippines, whose advocacy for promoting the well-being of seafarer families is in line with the vision of MMPC. To join a  Philippine Chapter of the Mission to Seafarers Family Support Network, inquire online at https://www.facebook.com/mtsphfn or ask your Crewing Officer to help connect you with an MtS representative.