Maritime stakeholders, government leaders, and seafarers’ representatives of Philippines recently gathered to commemorate the implementation of RA 12021, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. A joint Pledge of Solidarity was made to protect seafarers’ rights. Critics raised concerns about bias towards business interests. The law aims to uphold international maritime standards for seafarers’ welfare.
A labor group in the Philippines has petitioned the Supreme Court to challenge the constitutionality of a bond requirement in the Magna Carta for Seafarers. This provision, not imposed on land-based workers, places an unfair financial burden on seafarers. The group argues that it discriminates against seafarers and delays justice while adding financial strain.
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 Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, aligned with international maritime standards, has been officially enforced with the signing of its Implementing Rules and Regulations by the DMW and Marina. President Marcos Jr. emphasized the law’s commitment to seafarers’ protection, fair compensation, and access to benefits, marking a historic milestone in the industry.
A group of seafarers in the Philippines raised concerns about DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina’s involvement in drafting the IRR of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers. The CSP pointed out his past association with a law firm representing manning agencies, urging him to step back for transparency.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Cacdac announced a collaboration with Marina to develop the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Magna Carta for Seafarers. The goal is to finalize the IRR by December, addressing issues like ambulance chasing and setting standards for seafarer contracts to enhance protections in the maritime industry.
Quezon City First District Representative Arjo Atayde celebrated the enactment of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act, emphasizing its importance for over 578,000 Filipino seafarers and their families. He highlighted the need for effective implementation by government agencies to protect the rights and welfare of seafarers both locally and internationally.
The latest version of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers removed the controversial provision on the execution bond, aiming to protect the welfare of seafarers in accordance with international maritime law standards. The bill was withdrawn for review after facing debates on disability claims and other contentious issues.
Following Stories in this News Digest for the week from 06 Sep 2021 to 11 Sep 2021 in descending order:…
