MANILA – Senator Loren Legarda has voiced her optimism about the future working conditions of Filipino seafarers after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta of Seafarers. Legarda, a key figure in the legislation’s creation, described the IRR’s signing as a crucial move to protect the rights and welfare of the nation’s maritime workers.
Legarda emphasized that the IRR’s implementation is a significant victory for seafarers, both at home and abroad, as it pushes for better and more humane working environments. The Magna Carta, enacted in September 2024, aims to safeguard the rights of approximately 500,000 Filipino seafarers globally, including rights to form unions, engage in collective bargaining, and pursue further education for career growth.
The law also offers protections against harassment and discrimination, ensures the right to notify family members in emergencies, and secures safe travel. Legarda stressed the importance of aligning the Philippines’ maritime programs with international standards to keep Filipino seafarers competitive and essential in the global maritime sector. She highlighted the critical role seafarers play in maintaining global supply chains and the need to uphold their dignity and rights.
Legarda also recognized the sacrifices made by seafarers, who often spend long periods away from their families, and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving their living conditions. She stated that the Magna Carta is a testament to the government’s appreciation for their hard work and commitment to enhancing their lives.
Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr. added that the prompt issuance of the IRR would strengthen legal protections, enhance training, and improve benefits for Filipino mariners. He noted that the IRR would ensure comprehensive protection for Filipino seafarers on both foreign and Philippine-registered ships operating internationally.
Villafuerte emphasized that the Magna Carta would boost the global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers by improving the country’s maritime education, training, certification, and licensing systems, reinforcing the Philippines’ position as the world’s leading supplier of seafarers. He highlighted provisions that guarantee free legal assistance for seafarers in disputes or contract violations, with government agencies like the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) offering free legal aid.
Additionally, shipowners and manning agencies must report cases involving seafarers abroad to the DMW to ensure government support. Villafuerte also pointed out that the IRR complies with the International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, incorporating measures to prevent harassment and bullying on ships. Shipowners are required to establish policies for a safe working environment and provide helplines and grievance mechanisms for victims.
Villafuerte concluded by stressing the urgency of implementing the Magna Carta to align with international standards set by the ILO and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).