International voyager and past ship captain featured among the world's influential maritime authorities.
Philippine Maritime Executive Capt. Rodien Paca Recognized as Global Maritime Leader
Capt. Rodien Paca, a distinguished Cebuano maritime executive and former international ship captain, has ascended to the prestigious 2025 Who's Who in Global Maritime Leadership. He ranked third among global leaders who have significantly impacted the maritime and logistics industries.
As the CEO of eight port and logistics companies in the Philippines, Paca stands out for his groundbreaking contributions to ship management, floating ship repair, port workforce strategies, and the incorporation of artificial intelligence into logistics operations.
Born in City of Naga, Cebu, Paca's recognition comes at an opportune time when the Philippines has reclaimed its position as the world's foremost provider of seafarers. He attributes this resurgence to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
"The pandemic and the war between Ukraine and Russia helped us regain our position. It was due to quarantine concerns and a global event that both our major competitors were embroiled in," said Paca, in an interview.
Paca also highlighted improvements in maritime schools in the Philippines, aligning with global standards to provide highly skilled seamen for international roles. He encouraged further education for aspiring seafarers to thrive in the industry.
A certified port lecturer by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad), Paca has spent the past 17 years traveling across Europe, Asia, and Africa, sharing his extensive maritime knowledge. His global exposure and experience as a ship captain for over a decade have shaped his strategic insights into port services and logistics infrastructure.
"The global shipping, port management, and logistics education landscape no longer knows any boundaries, with a Filipino now sharing his wisdom worldwide," said Paca, expressing hope that his recognition would inspire more young Filipino seafarers.
Rise of Filipino Seafarers
According to Paca, many Filipino seafarers are advancing in their careers, progressing from fundamental ship roles to executive positions. He recalls how Filipinos were previously viewed as mid-level workers in ship management. However, he notes that the tide has changed, with more Filipinos assuming office jobs and challenging traditional perceptions.
Paca emphasized the importance of education and persistence for Cebuano seafarers, including students, to excel in the industry. "Being a seaman doesn't just mean becoming a captain," he said.
Beyond his professional achievements, Paca is an active participant in faith-based initiatives through the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, advocating for a culture of integrity and spiritual grounding in business.
Paca's inclusion in the 2025 Who's Who in Global Maritime Leadership signifies not only a personal triumph but the global competitiveness of Filipino maritime professionals and their crucial role in shaping the future of the global logistics and shipping industries.
- Captain Rodien Paca, hailing from Cebu, Philippines, highlights the advancement of Filipino seafarers, as they transition from mid-level roles to executive positions in the maritime industry.
- In his role as a CEO of numerous port and logistics companies, Paca stresses the significance of education and persistence for Filipino seafarers, including students, to excel and thrive in the industry.
- Beyond his professional accolades, Captain Paca is an active proponent of faith-based initiatives, advocating for a culture of integrity and spiritual grounding in business, reflecting the broader Philippine culture.
