According to Capt. Edgardo Flores, a consultant for a manning agency, the Filipino seafarer community is facing a critical situation 11 days after a cyberattack disrupted the Maritime Industry Authority’s (MARINA) system. This incident has hindered the processing of essential documents, such as the Seafarers’ Identification Document (SID) and Seafarer’s Record Book (SRB), which are vital for employment and deployment. Many seafarers are unable to obtain the necessary paperwork, while those currently at sea may have to extend their contracts due to delays in processing their replacements.
Flores emphasized the urgent need for clear and regular updates from the relevant authorities, as well as immediate solutions to address this crisis. He expressed concern for the well-being of seafarers, particularly those in high-risk areas like the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf, as well as those waiting for employment onshore. He called for the government to implement contingency plans for essential services that impact thousands of Filipino families.
The situation is approaching a national maritime and employment crisis, prompting Flores to urge President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Senate, and Congress to take swift action. He highlighted that Filipino seafarers, regarded as modern-day heroes, significantly contribute to the national economy and deserve immediate support from the government. MARINA’s management has acknowledged the cyberattack and is working to restore the affected systems.
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