ALMA Commends Ratification of Filipino Seafarers’ Magna Carta and Section 59 Reinstatement

The Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (ALMA) Maritime Group expressed their approval of the recent ratification of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, particularly the reinstatement of Section 59, which safeguards seafarers from ambulance-chasing lawyers who exploit them for financial gain. ALMA had raised concerns when Section 59 was initially removed from House Bill 7325, stressing its importance in protecting seafarers.

In a letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., ALMA highlighted the detrimental effects of fraudulent injury claims against maritime employers, which were causing Filipino seafarers to lose their jobs. The group cited a report by the International Group of P&I, revealing millions of pesos in wrongful payments to seafarers due to false claims. This predatory practice has led to a decrease in employment opportunities for Filipino seafarers, prompting international maritime groups and foreign ambassadors to support reforms in the industry.

ALMA emphasized the necessity of enforcing Section 59 to combat the ambulance chasing syndicate and ensure fair treatment for seafarers and shipowners. The group urged President Marcos to take decisive action against this exploitative practice, warning that failure to address the issue could have long-term consequences for the Filipino maritime industry.

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