MANILA – The Philippine government celebrated the vital contributions of Filipino seafarers as the country marked World Maritime Week on Friday.
At a special event called “Alay sa Marinong Pilipino” held at the Philippine International Convention Center, Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac highlighted the unparalleled skills, dedication, and resilience of Filipino maritime workers.
“Your hard work powers the global economy, delivering goods to every corner of the globe often under the most challenging conditions,” Cacdac told the assembled seafarers and industry partners, which include manning agencies, ship owners, and seafarers’ associations.
The accolades are well-deserved. Filipino seafarers represent an astounding 25% of the global maritime workforce, reaching an all-time high of 578,626 deployed in 2023 – surpassing even pre-pandemic levels.
“This is a testament to the vital role that our seafarers play not only in contributing to the local economy but also in ensuring the continuous flow of global trade and securing maritime safety,” Cacdac said.
Landmark Magna Carta Signed
The celebratory event also marked the timely signing of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier this week. The new law provides a comprehensive framework to protect the rights and welfare of the country’s maritime workers.
“The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is very relevant in today’s age, because many seafarers face cases, many of them unjustly fined abroad,” Cacdac explained. “The Magna Carta also fosters closer cooperation with maritime training centers and manning agencies.”
The 17 provisions in the new law secure a range of rights for Filipino seafarers, including self-organization, collective bargaining, just terms and conditions of work, affordable training programs, safe passage and travel, and fair medical assessment, among others.
Seafarers and industry stakeholders welcomed the new legislation, saying it will provide better protection and more opportunities.
“It is very good for the seafarers,” said Captain Juanito Salvatierra Jr., president of the International Maritime Association of the Philippines. “The manning industry has been proposing this for 10 years already, and we are happy that finally, it has been passed and signed by President Bongbong Marcos.”
Mary Grace Alfaras, a cruise ship worker of 7 years, said the Magna Carta will “provide more opportunities and support for seafarers like me. It is a great help to seafarers.”
With the new law in place, the Department of Migrant Workers is now working on the implementing rules and regulations, which are expected to be ready by December.
