Manila, Sept. 23 -- Measures to protect Filipino seafarers must evolve alongside technological advances and rising geopolitical risks confronting the global maritime industry, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Wednesday.

Speaking at the Philippine Maritime Convention (PhilMarCon) 2026 at The Manila Hotel, Marcos said the maritime sector is undergoing profound changes as new technologies transform ship operations and digitalization changes the skills required of seafarers.

"The way we prepare and protect our seafarers must evolve with the world they sail in," Marcos said.

He said Filipino seafarers are also increasingly exposed to risks beyond their control, including armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions, attacks and other securi...