Seafarers in Philippines Demand Transparency in Magna Carta IRR

A group of seafarers in the Philippines has raised concerns about Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina’s involvement in drafting the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers. The Concerned Seafarers of the Philippines (CSP) pointed out Pampolina’s past association with a law firm representing manning agencies and foreign principals, which they believe poses a conflict of interest. CSP chairman Jose Xavier Bayoneta urged Pampolina to step back from the role to ensure transparency in the IRR drafting process.

The CSP expressed worry that the current drafting of the IRR seems to favor local manning agencies and foreign principals over the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers. They requested additional consultations to ensure that the concerns of seafarers are fully taken into account. The group plans to share their letter with President Marcos, the Office of the Ombudsman, and other relevant government agencies.

Former representative Neri Colmenares also joined the call for more consultations with stakeholders on the IRR of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers. He criticized the DMW for failing to lead successful and amicable consultations, leading to continued disagreements between seafarers and the government. Colmenares urged stakeholders not to give in to pressure and to maintain their opposition to provisions that do not benefit seafarers but rather manning agencies and ship owners.

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