The crew of the offshore support vessel Star Apollo, stranded in Indonesia since October 2024, is facing unpaid wages and poor living conditions. With the help of the ITF, they are seeking assistance to return to India. The escalating issue of seafarer abandonment highlights the need for better enforcement of maritime regulations to protect vulnerable crew members.
Eight Filipino seafarers were detained in Malaysia for immigration violations. DMW conducted a welfare visit to assess their well-being. Labor Attachè and a lawyer presented a defense of good faith. DMW plans to investigate the manning agency and shipowner. The government’s response demonstrates a commitment to protecting OFWs’ rights and well-being.
The International Labor Organization (ILO) has approved a new global minimum wage agreement for seafarers, marking a significant increase over the next three years. The agreement, reached in Geneva in April 2025, will raise the minimum wage to $690 in January 2026, with further increases planned for 2028. This milestone underscores the commitment to fair wages.
In an effort to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the maritime industry, NeurodiversAtSea, the Seafarers Hospital Society, and The Seafarers’ Charity have launched a groundbreaking project to provide support to neurodivergent seafarers. This initiative aims to address the lack of industry support for neurodivergent employees and provide necessary assessments and adjustments for neurodivergent seafarers.
The ITF has praised the recent updates to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) that officially recognize seafarers as ‘key workers’ by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The amendments aim to improve the working and living conditions of seafarers, providing better protections and support in crisis situations, particularly in response to challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The International Labor Organization has amended the Maritime Labor Convention, recognizing sailors as essential workers. Effective December 2027, the changes improve seafarers’ rights, ensuring access to medical care, vacation time, and safe repatriation. While seen as transformative, challenges in enforcement remain, necessitating further action to uphold these standards globally.
Key government agencies overseeing the maritime industry united to protect Filipino seafarers by signing the Pledge of Commitment. Led by Rep. Ron Salo, officials like Undersecretary Felicitas Bay and Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized the importance of upholding seafarers’ rights. The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers aims to address issues like ambulance-chasing and ensure fair treatment for seafarers.
Maritime health experts stress the importance of free internet access for seafarers as a basic human right. Limited connectivity leads to isolation and mental health issues. Dr. Tülsner warns of physical consequences of digital isolation. Industry leaders advocate for improved access, emphasizing the link between mental and physical well-being at sea.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the updates to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The amendments aim to enhance seafarers’ working and living conditions, including provisions for key worker status, improved repatriation requirements, access to shore leave, and protection against bullying.
Quadrant Marine Institute offers a unique opportunity for those interested in a career in BC’s marine industry. The We Float Boats! program provides free training, paid placement, and real skills for youth aged 16 to 29. Participants gain hands-on experience, industry certifications, and job shadowing opportunities to kickstart their careers in the marine trades.
The 20 Filipino crew members of a ship under investigation in South Korea for alleged cocaine smuggling will receive additional legal assistance from the DMW, Philippine embassy, and Migrant Workers office. Secretary Cacdac assures their well-being and legal defense while onboard the MV Lutina. Families are also being supported during the investigation.
SIRE 2.0 revolutionizes tanker safety oversight by focusing on crew behavior and leadership ethos, going beyond traditional audits to provide real-time insights. Aligned with existing safety frameworks, it deepens the application of codes by observing their daily implementation. Its risk-based vetting approach and ESG performance measurement offer tailored solutions for improved vessel safety and performance.
Maritime stakeholders, government leaders, and seafarers’ representatives of Philippines recently gathered to commemorate the implementation of RA 12021, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. A joint Pledge of Solidarity was made to protect seafarers’ rights. Critics raised concerns about bias towards business interests. The law aims to uphold international maritime standards for seafarers’ welfare.
Human Rights at Sea, a charity advocating for seafarers’ rights, has closed due to lack of funding. Founded in 2014 by David Hammond, it focused on issues like crew abandonment and abuse. Despite creating the Geneva Declaration of Human Rights at Sea, financial challenges led to its closure. A new subsidiary is planned.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is discussing potential changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), with Stella Maris UK urging for urgent protections for seafarers. CEO Tim Hill emphasizes that seafarers should not have to choose between shore leave and adequate rest, as many are currently facing this unacceptable dilemma.
