The Philippines Department of Migrant Workers is committed to enforcing the Magna Carta for Seafarers to protect them from abandonment. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the department to uphold seafarers’ rights, emphasizing the importance of following international regulations. Efforts are being made to address crew welfare and ensure payment of wages for abandoned seafarers.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is cracking down on ship owners who force Filipino seafarers to sail through dangerous waters like the Gulf of Aden amidst Houthi attacks. DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stressed the importance of respecting seafarers’ right to refuse boarding in high-risk areas near Yemen, with sanctions for non-compliance.
The Social Security System (SSS) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) signed an agreement to create the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC) for seafarers’ coverage. SSS President Macasaet emphasized the commitment to address maritime employment concerns and provide financial assistance to seafarers and their families. Around 350,000 seafarers are SSS members.
