On September 2, 2025, the Philippine government hosted an International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-Being at the Manila Diamond Hotel, culminating in the adoption of the Manila Declaration. This significant document seeks to bolster protections for seafarers amid the myriad challenges they face, including health crises and conflicts at sea.
The Manila Declaration consists of eight key commitments designed to enhance the welfare and rights of seafarers. These include upholding human rights consistently, comprehensive enforcement of the Maritime Labor Convention, improving preparedness for crises, and recognizing seafarers’ right to refuse work in dangerous areas without fear of punishment. Furthermore, the declaration emphasizes corporate responsibility in human rights, empowerment of women, and the importance of adapting to the dual challenges of digitalization and decarbonization. It also advocates for increased international cooperation in maritime education and training.
Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Carlos Sorreta, highlighted the progressive nature of the declaration, noting its foresight in addressing the evolving maritime landscape. The declaration has received endorsements from ten countries so far, including Bangladesh, Germany, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom, with the Philippine government urging further support from maritime stakeholders globally. Sorreta expressed the Philippines’ commitment to gathering broader adherence to the declaration and exploring subsequent action steps.
The conference drew over 200 delegates from at least 40 countries, marking a gathering of significant international representation in maritime matters. Key figures attending the event included Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Sonia Malaluan, who underscored the Philippines’ long-standing advocacy for seafarers’ rights. The nation has been proactive in addressing the needs of this workforce, evidenced by the repatriation of seafarers affected by conflicts, such as the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
In addition to unveiling the Manila Declaration, the Philippines has previously made strides at the global level, exemplified by its sponsorship of a historic resolution at the UN Human Rights Council in 2024, which was the first to formally recognize the contributions of seafarers to society.
Overall, the Manila Declaration marks a pivotal moment for the international maritime community, emphasizing the importance of seafarers’ rights and well-being in a rapidly changing world, and positioning the Philippines as a leader in championing these essential worker protections.
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