Event recap: Crew and Family Day Manila's carnival of fun

Internal News | 04.08.2026

The sights, sounds, and excitement of the carnival took center stage as Odfjell welcomed 210 seafarers and their families to Lanson Place Mall of Asia on July 18 for the third Crew and Family Day of 2026. Dressed in colorful carnival-inspired outfits, families embraced the festive atmosphere and enjoyed a day filled with meaningful moments and shared experiences.

Setting the stage

Setting the tone for the day, VP Maritime Personnel Gunnar Moen welcomed participants before OPI President and General Manager Agnes Enesio shared company updates and reflected on the invaluable support families provide to seafarers throughout their maritime careers.
 

From left to right: VP MPS Gunnar Moen and OPI President and GM Agnes Enesio

One of the morning's highlights was the recognition of 12 seafarers who celebrated 25 years of dedicated service with Odfjell. Joined by their loved ones, the awardees were honored for their professionalism, commitment, and the lasting contributions they have made to the company over the past two and a half decades.

The service awardees honored during the celebration were:

  • Bosun Leonardo Ambrosio
  • Chief Cook Ronald Anadilla
  • Pumpman Jose Balajoro Jr.
  • Able Seaman Julius Deleña
  • Able Seaman Rex Doromal
  • Fitter Christopher Jeorge Inducil
  • Bosun Jerico Magsombol
  • Fitter Edwin Mariano
  • Bosun Alan Montero
  • Captain Arnel Reyes
  • Captain Ronnie Pondoyo
  • Pumpman Julius Soliva
     
The 25-year service awardees with OPI President and GM Agnes Enesio and VP MPS Gunnar Moen

Learning, laughter, and carnival fun

Following the opening program, crew members and their families took part in simultaneous sessions designed to promote learning and well-being. Seafarers attended a safety workshop led by 3E Christopher Cadiz, while family members participated in the talk entitled “Family Health Matters: Growing Together, Living Better” led by Dr. Jeremiah Simeon Trinidad III, which offered practical insights on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and supporting one another throughout the unique experiences of life at sea.

From left to right: Dr. Jeremiah Simeon Trinidad III, CFS Team Lead Olive De Vera, 3E Christopher Cadiz, and VP MPS Gunnar Moen

As the afternoon unfolded, the celebration shifted into full carnival mode. Families enjoyed games, live entertainment, raffle draws, and interactive activities, while participants of all ages embraced the festive atmosphere with enthusiasm. The vibrant carnival-themed outfits added even more color to the venue, making the day as visually memorable as it was meaningful.
 

The kids during one of the games prepared for them

Celebrating the people behind every Odfjell voyage

Beyond the carnival games and festivities, Crew and Family Day remains an opportunity to recognize the people who make every voyage possible. By bringing together seafarers, their loved ones, and shore colleagues, the event celebrates not only the dedication of those working at sea but also the families whose encouragement and support are an essential part of every journey.

The Manila gathering marked the third of five Crew and Family Day celebrations across the Philippines. Following successful events in Davao, Iloilo, and Manila, the series will continue in Cebu and Bacolod through the first and second quarters of 2027.

The success of the event was made possible through the support of Odfjell management, the dedicated efforts of the Crew & Family Services team, OiP Personnel, and, most importantly, the participation of our seafarers and their families, whose presence made another Crew and Family Day a truly memorable celebration.
 

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