Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong concluded his visit to the Philippines, highlighting strong bilateral ties. His trip coincided with the delivery of five new RoPax vessels from Greenbay Marine to the Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation, aimed at enhancing domestic transportation and improving connectivity across the islands.
Senatorial candidate Panfilo Lacson plans to introduce legislation to make maritime education more affordable for aspiring seafarers. Speaking in Cebu, he noted that seafarers contributed $6.94 billion to the economy in 2024, yet rising education costs force many families to deplete savings. Lacson aims to prioritize solutions in the Senate.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac ensured support for Filipino seafarers repatriated from Malaysia. The crew of vessel MT Krishna 1 received financial aid and skills training vouchers. DMW will investigate the manning agency and shipowner. The repatriation reflects DMW’s commitment to safeguard overseas Filipino workers, the nation’s modern heroes.
The Philippine Coast Guard successfully rescued 506 passengers, including infants and children, from the grounded interisland ferry Lite Ferry Five during the busy Easter Holiday travel period. The ferry, which operates between Bohol and Cagayan de Oro, ran aground just offshore shortly after departure. No injuries were reported, and a marine assessment is ongoing.
A Chinese-operated sand carrier, the Hong Hai 16, capsized off the coast of Rizal, Occidental Mindoro, leading to a rescue operation. 14 crew members have been rescued, while two are confirmed dead and nine are missing. The cause is under investigation, with hopes of finding survivors in the engine room.
Key government agencies overseeing the maritime industry united to protect Filipino seafarers by signing the Pledge of Commitment. Led by Rep. Ron Salo, officials like Undersecretary Felicitas Bay and Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized the importance of upholding seafarers’ rights. The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers aims to address issues like ambulance-chasing and ensure fair treatment for seafarers.
The Philippine Coast Guard swiftly responded to a fire aboard the Roro Master 2 at the port of Abra de Ilog. With passengers and trucks on board, the crew managed to control the fire near the fantail. No injuries were reported, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and preparedness in maritime incidents.
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.
FFW president and senatorial candidate Sonny Matula criticized the Senate for failing to protect seafarers’ rights in the Magna Carta legislation. He condemned Section 59 as unconstitutional and vowed to challenge it in the Supreme Court. Matula urged labor groups to support legal action to ensure fair treatment for seafarers.
International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) in the Philippines is investing $580 million in capital expenditures for 2025 after a record-breaking year in 2024. The company’s financial strength allows for new opportunities, including the $800 million Luzon International Container Terminal in Batangas. ICTSI is also expanding terminals in Congo, Mexico, and Brazil.
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 ITF and MARINA have signed an MoU to enhance mental health training for Filipino seafarers. This partnership will improve knowledge and skills in mental health and wellbeing for maritime faculties. Collaborative research projects and initiatives will focus on occupational health and safety within the Philippine maritime sector.
Philippines National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has revamped its Management Level Course (MLC) for Marine Deck Officers, now condensed to 28 days from 55 days, aligning with industry standards. Approved by Marina, the course focuses on essential managerial skills for senior positions in the maritime industry. The updated curriculum enhances decision-making and leadership skills.
The International Chamber of Shipping, Lloyd’s Register OneOcean, and MARINA in the Philippines are collaborating to digitalize seafarer certification processes. This pilot project aims to streamline certification systems, reduce administrative burdens, and improve efficiency. By exploring digital pathways, the initiative seeks to enhance accessibility, security, and regulatory compliance in the maritime industry.
A national workshop in Manila from 27-31 January aims to enhance understanding of IMO liability conventions. Hosted by MARINA, the workshop brings together key agencies to improve cost recovery for maritime incidents. Led by experts, sessions focus on practical application and legislative processes, driving progress in implementing IMO instruments in the Philippines.
