The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, designed to safeguard the rights and welfare of the country’s seafarers, faced a series of delays before its recent signing into law by President Marcos Jr. Initially set for approval on February 26, the bill was unexpectedly withheld, prompting multiple redrafts amid controversy over certain provisions, particularly concerning maritime training and the requirement for seafarers to pay a bond before receiving compensation in disability cases.
After numerous revisions, the Congress approved a bicameral conference committee report on the Magna Carta on July 29 and again on July 31. The final legislation aims to uphold the fundamental rights of overseas Filipino seafarers, emphasizing fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for skills and competency development. President Marcos highlighted the necessity of ensuring that the law is not just a set of compliance guidelines but a mechanism that affirms the dignity of labor for seafarers by addressing their economic and personal well-being.
The Magna Carta incorporates the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC2006), aligning Philippine maritime standards with global practices. Marcos acknowledged the growing challenges faced by Filipino seafarers working on EU-flagged vessels, where issues of compliance with STCW (Standards on Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) have been persistent. The new law intends to fortify the legal framework, ensuring that Filipino seafarers benefit from proper training, secure contracts, just compensation, and equitable benefits.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of creating a robust certification process, allowing Filipino seafarers to remain competitive in the fast-evolving maritime industry. He underscored that fair compensation and safe working conditions go beyond mere compliance — they are integral to treating seafarers with respect and recognizing their hard work.
Furthermore, the President addressed the real hazards faced by seafarers, particularly in light of recent maritime attacks in volatile regions such as the Red Sea, where commercial vessels have become targets of missile and gunboat strikes. Reflecting on the isolation and dangers endured by seafarers, he described the signing of the Magna Carta as a collective acknowledgment of their sacrifices, reinforcing the need for protection not only from maritime threats but also from exploitation and discrimination.
In conclusion, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers represents a significant legislative effort to ensure the welfare and rights of Filipino seafarers, reinforcing their importance to both the domestic and international maritime industry while committing to their safety, development, and dignity.
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