Seventy-eight Filipino seafarers have opted to exercise their “right to refuse sailing” since March due to the increased attacks on vessels passing through the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, which are classified as “high-risk areas” and “war-like zones,” as reported by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The number of seafarers refusing to sail could potentially be higher, as consultations with stakeholders are ongoing, including social partners, seafarers’ groups, and ship owners groups, according to Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.
The DMW has emphasized the importance of evaluating the compliance of ship owners with the “right to refuse sailing” policy. In March, the DMW issued directives to all licensed manning agencies and their accredited principals/employers to ensure the proper implementation of Filipino seafarers’ decision to invoke their right to refuse sailing in high-risk areas.
Filipino seafarers who choose not to sail in risk areas will be repatriated, as stated by the DMW. It is crucial that seafarers are allowed to make this decision without facing discrimination or prejudice towards their current or future employment. Recent incidents, such as the attack on the cargo ship MV Tutor by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, highlight the dangers faced by Filipino seafarers in these regions, with some crew members still in captivity.
