PH Consulate in New York Kicks Off Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month 2025

New York — The Philippine Consulate General in New York opened the month-long observance of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo) 2025 with a flag ceremony on September 2 at the Philippine Center, in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 316 (s. 2017) declaring September as MANAMo.

In a message delivered by Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the Philippines’ enduring identity as a seafaring nation whose history, progress, and future are tied to the seas. The President stressed that the country’s strength, security, and sovereignty depend on effective maritime governance founded on foresight, stewardship, and solidarity.

“The seas have long been both our cradle and our crucible,” President Marcos said, urging Filipinos to safeguard the maritime domain so future generations may inherit not only sovereignty but also a proud legacy.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, in a recorded message, highlighted that the seas are the lifeblood of the nation—sustaining Filipinos through challenges and driving the country toward prosperity and development.

This year’s theme, “Nagkakaisang Kapuluan, Panatag na Karagatan” (One Nation, Secure Seas), calls for deeper awareness of the Philippines’ maritime and archipelagic character, greater unity and pride in maritime heritage, and collective action to build a sustainable and secure ocean economy.

Through MANAMo 2025, the Philippine Consulate in New York reaffirms the nation’s commitment to its archipelagic identity, the protection of its maritime resources, and the strengthening of Filipino pride in its seafaring heritage.