Controversy Surrounds Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers: Calls for Fairness and Justice

The pending Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers has been a subject of controversy, with concerns raised about a provision on execution bonds that could penalize seafarers rather than protect them. Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen emphasized the need for fairness and social justice for Filipino seafarers, highlighting the inadequate compensation they receive for disabilities or deaths suffered while on duty. Despite efforts to remove the contentious provision, it was reinserted in the bill, prompting Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros to voice their opposition.

The debate surrounding the Magna Carta also touches on issues such as disability claims, with proposed amendments that could impact the finality of decisions on monetary awards for seafarers. The House version of the bill includes the controversial execution bond provision, which was omitted in the Senate version. The back-and-forth between the two chambers of Congress has led to delays in passing the bill into law, with concerns raised about its potential discriminatory nature against seafarers.

Critics of the bill, including Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, have called for President Marcos Jr. to veto the legislation due to its perceived anti-labor provisions. The insertion of the execution bond provision has raised concerns about unequal treatment of Filipino seafarers compared to other workers. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of ensuring that the Magna Carta expands the rights of seafarers rather than limiting them, in line with the goal of protecting those who work at sea.

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