THERE is something so refreshingly vibrant and fun about Edward Rex Nantes, a third engineer from Maddela, Quirino province, who loves to spend his downtime making video blogs (vlogs).
To many in the maritime industry, he is simply ByaheNiEdward.
However, to his combined 459,000 followers on Facebook and YouTube, he is the sunny seafarer-slash-explorer who shows the world the reality and joys of being a mariner. His skillfully made content is bright with optimism and authenticity, and is sure to bring a smile to his viewers’ faces.
ByaheNiEdward is exciting, entertaining and educational. It reflects the exact character of Nantes.
“I always say that ByaheNiEdward on my vlogs is the same as the real Edward. I like to keep myself as funny, jolly and friendly, whether I’m in front of the camera or not,” Nantes said.
His usual content focuses on life at sea, shore leave experiences and his vacations in the Philippines. He also creates motivational videos based on his journey and struggles of becoming an engine officer.
Like many aspiring seafarers who had no relatives or friends as “backers,” Nantes started his career by working as a flunky for a shipping company.
“I served as a utility and driver until I was able to get a lineup for a shipboard job. I used these experiences to inspire others,” he said.
“I use my social media to connect with fellow seafarers, maritime students and seafarers’ families, giving them a glimpse into what life at sea and on shore leave is really like. When my viewers started sending me messages, thanking me for inspiring them, that’s when I realized the purpose of my vlogs. It gave essence to the meaning ‘influencer,'” he furthered.
Nantes started vlogging in 2014 and has since created hundreds of highly engaging videos. His accumulated viewership has reached to about 14 million.
When asked about the most common inquiries he receives from his viewers and subscribers, Nantes revealed that it’s mostly curious but earnest questions.
I am usually asked “mahirap po ba mag barko?”, “nakakalabas po ba lagi for shore leave sa ibang bansa?” and “paano po mag vlog at mag edit idol?”
“It’s an honor to be able to share my experiences and connect with seafarers, maritime students and families. Knowing that my content resonates with people, inspires them and even helps them navigate their own journey in this industry gives me a strong sense of purpose. It also comes with responsibility, as every post or vlog I make can impact how others view life at sea. Overall, it has not only helped me grow personally and professionally but also allowed me to give back to the community that has shaped my life,” he shared.
The inspiration to set sail
There were no seafarers in the Nantes clan. Even in his neighborhood, there are only a few who have chosen a career at sea.
Observing this handful of seafarers from afar inspired young “Bhooy” to pursue a maritime profession.
“Many of them have built impressive homes, drive nice cars and own multiple properties. Their achievements have deeply inspired me, especially because I come from a humble background. I aspire to follow in their footsteps and create a successful life,” he recalled.
In 2010, Nantes graduated from Philippine Maritime Institute Quezon City. Three years later, he was off to sea as a messman, a ship crew who works on the dining quarters and serves and clears the tables.
“Seeing the world for free and experiencing different cultures is also very inspiring. Shore leaves are the best and most unforgettable experience for me as a seafarer. It is always the highlight as it gives me the chance to explore new places and make lasting memories. I’ve lost count of how many countries I’ve visited. Every time I go on shore leave, I make a vlog and upload it to my social media — golden memories I’ll always treasure.”
In 2019, however, Nantes took a break from seafaring to start a business and address his depression, “particularly because I couldn’t get a promotion at the time, hindi ko maaktuhan ‘yung lisensya ko. However, in 2021, I decided to return to sailing, as many manning agencies were hiring due to the pandemic, and I saw it as a great opportunity to get back on track and pursue a promotion.”
“I always take pride in the work we do onboard, knowing that we play a crucial role in global trade.”
The pleasures of seafaring are only dampened by moments of homesickness. Nantes sees isolation and long periods of being apart with his loved ones, especially with his wife Sheena, very challenging.
“It’s really a sacrifice, but it also makes the time spent with family even more precious,” he said.
Behind his public persona as a sunny seafarer, Nantes loves to spend quiet moments to himself, tending to his plants and fixing things at home. He also keeps himself fit with biking.
Be the first to comment