Two Brazilian pilots who averted an environmental disaster and an officer from the Philippines who ensured the survival of fellow passengers from a sinking vessel while off-duty, will receive the 2020 IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.
To remind, the annual “IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea”, offers international recognition for those who at the risk of losing their own life, perform acts of exceptional bravery, displaying outstanding courage in attempting to save life at sea or in attempting to prevent or mitigate damage to the marine environment.
What is more, acts of bravery may also involve extraordinary skills in very difficult conditions or any other display of outstanding courage.
Meeting for its 124th session during 12-14 October, the IMO Council endorsed the recommendation from a Panel of Judges, agreeing that two nominations were worthy of the highest recognition this year.
In fact, the 2020 IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea will be awarded to Mr. Marcio Santos Teixeira and Mr. Fabio Rodrigues Alves de Abreu, members of the São Paulo Pilots, for averting a major oil spill event at the Terminal Almirante Barroso in São Sebastião Port.
They were nominated by Brazil for their decisiveness, professionalism and ship-handling expertise in safely maneuvering two oil tankers that had gone adrift during a ship-to-ship operation, in extreme weather conditions.
…as IMO stated.
At the same time, the award will also be given to Petty Officer Second Class Ralph Ofalla Barajan of the Philippine Coast Guard, for helping to save the lives of all 62 people onboard the sinking passenger vessel Siargao Princess, on which was also a passenger.
According to IMO:
He was nominated by the Philippines for his leadership and determination, even while he was off duty. His courage and decisiveness ensured the survival of all 62 lives onboard, as well as contributing to the successful rescue by the Philippines Coast Guard.
Concluding, the awards will be presented at an awards ceremony to be scheduled by the Secretary‑General.
