President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the welfare of Filipino seafarers during his keynote speech at the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026 in Manila. He highlighted the significance of Republic Act 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, which he signed into law two years ago. This landmark legislation aims to safeguard the rights, welfare, and working conditions of Filipino mariners, both locally and abroad. As the law marks its second anniversary, Marcos emphasized the need to uphold the dignity and safety of seafarers, noting that the Philippines continues to be a leading supplier of maritime manpower globally, providing nearly 20% of all deployed seafarers.
Acknowledging the rising security threats in international waters, Marcos referenced the tragic deaths of four Filipino seafarers and one missing individual in a recent attack at the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed the importance of adapting state protections to address these evolving risks, including geopolitical tensions that seafarers often face without their involvement. In response to these dangers, enhanced emergency protocols have been implemented by the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to ensure the safety of seafarers in high-risk areas.
Moreover, Marcos noted the alignment of local education and assessment systems with international standards, alongside updates to the Standard Employment Contracts for Overseas Filipino Seafarers. He also mentioned the establishment of support systems for returning mariners, including a dedicated Seafarers’ Welfare Center that offers medical, legal, and training assistance, as well as the Full-Cycle National Reintegration Program. The President urged collaboration among shipowners, training institutions, and global trade partners to protect the country’s sea-based workforce, recognizing their vital role in connecting the Philippines to the world.
