DFA pushes for approval of Seafarers’ Magna Carta following tragic assault

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is hopeful that the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers will be signed soon to provide better protection for Filipino mariners. DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Worker Affairs Eduardo De Vega emphasized the importance of passing a law that will improve the welfare of seafarers, especially in light of recent incidents such as the deadly attack on a merchant vessel in the Red Sea that claimed the lives of Filipino crew members. However, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. did not sign the Magna Carta in February, and the proposed legislation is still under review.

Eleven crew members of the bulk carrier True Confidence, which was attacked by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, are set to return to the Philippines. Two Filipino seafarers were killed in the attack, and two others were seriously injured. The injured seafarers are expected to return to the country in the next few days via a special air ambulance. Houthi rebels have been targeting merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden since November, but last week’s incident marked the first reported civilian fatalities resulting from such an attack. President Marcos has called for an end to attacks on ships and respect for freedom of navigation following the incident.

Filipino mariners make up more than 25% of the 1.5 million sea-based workers worldwide, the highest number from any country. The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is a priority legislation for the administration, but its enactment has been delayed due to the need for further review. The government is working towards improving the bill to ensure better protection and support for Filipino seafarers who play a crucial role in the global maritime industry.

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