The Social Security System (SSS) ensures social security coverage for Filipino seafarers and maritime professionals as the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC) is formed. SSS President Macasaet emphasizes collective effort in addressing maritime employment concerns and promoting the welfare of Filipino seafarers and their families. Seafarers are urged to become SSS members for financial security.
Seafarers are warned to stay vigilant and avoid falling for deceitful schemes, as the Directorate General of Shipping issues an advisory. Families are being targeted by unknown individuals demanding money to release seafarers accused of crimes. The advisory urges caution and immediate reporting of such incidents to prevent further victimization.
Bulgaria and Georgia signed an agreement for mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates, aiming to enhance transport connectivity between Asia and Europe. The deal allows certified seafarers to serve on ships under the other country’s flag. Both countries also discussed expanding cooperation in ferry and railway transport to boost trade exchange.
Iran has released seven of the 25 crew members from the Portuguese-flagged ship seized in the Gulf, including five Indians. The ship, MSC Aries, was seized near the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions between Iran and Israel. Iran claimed the ship had Israeli links, escalating the conflict between the two nations.
The Social Security System (SSS) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) signed an agreement to create the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC) for seafarers’ coverage. SSS President Macasaet emphasized the commitment to address maritime employment concerns and provide financial assistance to seafarers and their families. Around 350,000 seafarers are SSS members.
More than twenty crew members are stranded aboard the cargo ship Dali after it brought down the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The Apostleship of the Sea is providing support, helping them communicate with family and navigate challenges. As controlled explosions clear debris, the crew waits for freedom and normalcy to return.
Two seafarers face potential jail time in the US for admitting to pollution offenses on a Greek tanker. The chief engineer of Avin International’s MR Kriti Ruby pleaded guilty to charges of discharging oily waste near a petroleum terminal in New Jersey. Konstantinos Atsalis and Sonny Bosito also admitted to falsifying records to conceal pollution.
Nautilus International’s general secretary, Mark Dickinson, attended a seminar in the UK Parliament with the RMT and Labour Party members to discuss a mandatory seafarers charter and Labour’s ‘New Deal for Working People’. The event aimed to prevent a repeat of P&O Ferries’ mass-sacking and address issues in the maritime industry.
A crew member on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship attacked multiple individuals, including security crew members, a nurse, and a female passenger. The incident involved a new crew member from South Africa, Ntando Sogoni, who displayed erratic behavior. Despite the incident, the ship’s security protocols and surveillance systems ensured the safety of all onboard.
The UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and Jordan’s Ministry of Transport signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation and knowledge exchange in the maritime sector. This partnership aims to advance maritime education, training, and sustainable development, reflecting a commitment to international standards for seafarers.
Cruise operator Royal Caribbean Group is seeking to hire thousands of workers to keep up with the record demand for cruises worldwide. Bookings hit a new high in 2023, prompting the company to increase its workforce. With plans to hire over 10,000 employees and commission new ships, their growth strategy is in full swing.
The IMO’s Legal Committee approved new guidelines to protect seafarers detained overseas. These guidelines ensure due process for seafarers working on ships in foreign countries. IMO Secretary-General emphasized the importance of seafarer well-being, calling the guidelines a significant step in addressing challenges they face. A task force will enhance the database on seafarer abandonment.
In a shocking revelation, Dubai-based ship management company Middle East Marine LLC faces scrutiny for the worst case of serial seafarer abandonment. Over 100 seafarers endured abuse and neglect, prompting urgent calls for action. Despite violations, authorities have been notably absent, compounding the suffering of exploited seafarers.
Tanker owners’ association Intertanko conducted a survey with over 5,400 seafarers, revealing high satisfaction levels with their careers. Workload was a major concern, with Filipinos most likely to feel overwhelmed. Female officers reported gender-based misconduct. Many seafarers aim to transition to shore-based roles due to family reasons and workload. Resilience among Filipino seafarers was noted.
The ITF has accused Middle East Marine LLC of neglecting over 100 seafarers, prompting calls for intervention from the UAE government and Palau shipping authorities. Seafarers from India, Indonesia, and Myanmar faced appalling conditions such as lack of wages, food, and medical supplies. The situation highlights the need for industry accountability.
