Philippines FFW Slams Senate for Failing Seafarers’ Rights in Magna Carta Legislation

Federation of Free Workers (FFW) president and senatorial candidate Sonny Matula criticized the Senate for failing to assert its role as a check on the House of Representatives during deliberations on the Magna Carta of Seafarers. Matula specifically highlighted his concerns regarding Section 59 of the legislation, which he believes is unconstitutional and is urging the Supreme Court to declare as such. He expressed disappointment in the Senate for initially removing the escrow provision, only to later yield to the House’s insistence during the bicameral conference committee. Matula emphasized that the Senate missed an opportunity to protect seafarers from unjust provisions.

Matula announced that he is invoking the Supreme Court’s certiorari power to challenge the unconstitutional provision of the Magna Carta of Seafarers. He argued that Section 59 violates equal protection and due process by imposing an unfair financial burden on seafarers seeking to execute claims, a requirement not imposed on other workers. Matula expressed his disappointment in the Senate’s lack of firm stance in favor of workers and stressed the importance of legal action to ensure seafarers receive their rightful benefits without unconstitutional barriers.

Furthermore, Matula criticized Congress for its lack of worker representation, attributing the passage of provisions undermining seafarers’ rights to the influence of shipowners and employers. He urged labor groups to support legal action and called on the Supreme Court to strike down Section 59. Matula emphasized the importance of workers’ voices being heard in both the courts and the halls of power to address unjust laws affecting labor rights.

Source