The maritime industry is witnessing a troubling rise in the criminalization of seafarers, especially senior officers and ship captains. InterManager is leading a campaign to address this issue and advocate for seafarers’ rights. The organization is actively engaging in discussions to tackle the problem and provide support to those affected.
Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), part of OneCare Group (OCG), now offers support for seafarers’ families. Seafarers face mental health challenges at sea, but their loved ones also feel the strain of separation. MHSS provides therapy for children with special needs, recognizing the impact on Filipino families.
In 2024, the number of seafarers abandoned at sea reached a record high of 310 cases globally, a 118% increase from the previous year. The surge has been linked to the shadow fleet carrying sanctioned oil, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The IMO and ILO are calling for stronger measures to protect seafarers.
In May 2023, Nikolaus Schues was inaugurated as BIMCO’s president, underlining the essential role of seafarers as ‘key workers.’ He called for their protection against criminalization for incidents like drug smuggling. Schues also highlighted the urgent need for improved training and better incentives to combat the looming shortage of qualified seafarers.
Cases of crew abandonment reached a new alarming high last year, more than doubling from the record levels of 2023. Data from the International Maritime Organization revealed 310 cases of crew abandonment in 2024, a significant increase of 118% from the previous year. Experts attribute this rise to the growth of the shadow fleet.
The Caithness Family History Society’s first meeting of 2025 will highlight Wick’s statue honoring lost seafarers. Speaker Willie Watt will discuss the Seafarers Memorial at Braehead, emphasizing its role in commemorating those lost at sea. The event, open to all, offers a chance to learn about family history and engage with the community.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the final version of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 12021, the “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,” to benefit Filipino seafarers. The IRR aims to enhance protection, welfare, and empowerment of seafarers, emphasizing one-stop-shop centers to simplify processes and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles.
In 2024, the ITF reclaimed A$30.7 million in unpaid wages for seafarers, evidencing a troubling rise in labor rights violations on international cargo vessels. Despite AMSA’s inspections and bans, advocacy groups highlight the ongoing plight of these “invisible workers” facing harsh conditions, wage theft, and inadequate living standards.
Maritime catering company MCTC foresees challenges in attracting young talent by 2025 due to evolving lifestyles. CEO Christian Ioannou stresses the need to adapt to new generations’ preferences. With a focus on diverse job roles and lifestyle support, MCTC aims to meet the demands of seafarers with specific dietary needs like veganism and vegetarianism.
A father from Legazpi City, Elias Bobiles Jr., seeks President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s help in finding his missing son, Ralph Anthony Bobiles, a deck officer on the Prestige Ace ship. Elias shares his son’s disappearance on social media, pleading for information and government intervention to uncover the truth and reunite with Ralph.
The search and rescue operation for the missing crew member of the sunken cargo ship MV Jerlyn Khatness in Lavezares, Northern Samar continues. Despite one crew member losing his life, efforts are ongoing to find chief engineer Andres Bulanon. The PCG and local responders are facing challenges due to rough seas.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has outlined key priorities for the organization in 2025, including a focus on seafarers, global security, and decarbonization. Improving safety and support for seafarers, reducing criminalization, and promoting diversity in the maritime sector are key areas of concern. Dominguez also emphasized the importance of gender representation.
The family of a victim who died in a fire on a petroleum tanker in East Bali is frustrated by the lack of compensation from the shipping company. Despite promises, no financial support has been received, leaving the family in limbo. Efforts to secure funds have been unsuccessful, leaving them without clarity on their claims.
Seven individuals are facing charges for operating a migrant vessel and allegedly murdering four passengers during a journey to the Canary Islands. The vessel, carrying 207 asylum-seekers, arrived on the island of El Hierro. The crew singled out a passenger, leading to a violent altercation resulting in four deaths and one serious injury.
On 23 Dec. 2024, the maritime industry saw new amendments to the MLC, 2006 come into effect, aiming to improve seafarers’ working and living conditions in light of COVID-19 challenges. These changes focus on safety, medical care, repatriation, and mental health support, emphasizing the industry’s commitment to seafarers’ well-being and rights.
