The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued an urgent advisory for the rerouting of vessels with Filipino crew in high-risk areas, particularly the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This directive underscores the seafarers’ right to refuse sailing in these warlike zones, following recent attacks on ships affecting Filipino crews.
In compliance with Republic Act No. 11641, which aims to protect Overseas Filipino Workers, the DMW mandates that all licensed manning agencies (LMAs) and foreign shipowners must divert their vessels away from designated high-risk zones. They are also reminded to adhere to existing regulations regarding the safety of Filipino seafarers, including prohibitions on sailing in specific areas and deploying crews to previously attacked vessels.
LMAs must ensure that seafarers can invoke their right to refuse sailing, with immediate repatriation arranged for those who do. Additionally, they are required to report to the Seabased Accreditation Bureau on the actions taken, including names of those who refused to sail and those who chose to continue despite the risks.
To enhance maritime safety, all LMAs must appoint a Seafarers’ Welfare and Crisis Management Officer (SWACO). This officer will coordinate responses to maritime security incidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Violations of these directives could result in sanctions, including license suspension or cancellation.
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