Marcos pushes stronger seafarer protections

Marcos pushes stronger seafarer protections
Erika Mae P. Sinaking September 23, 2026 https://bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/09/23/780951/marcos-pushes-stro...

THE government will strengthen safeguards for Filipino seafarers, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said on Wednesday, amid technological changes and security risks affecting the global maritime industry.

Speaking at the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026 in Manila, Mr. Marcos said the government must ensure that programs protecting seafarers’ rights, welfare and safety evolve with changes in the industry.

“The maritime sector is in a period of profound change. Their work has become complex, and in some cases, dangerous,” Mr. Marcos said.

“Digitalization is changing the skills that the industry requires. The way we prepare and protect our seafarers must evolve with the world that they sail in,” he added.

Mr. Marcos said the government strengthened safeguards for seafarers working in war-risk areas and emergency repatriation through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

He also cited the 2026 DMW Sea-Based Rules, updated standard employment contracts for overseas Filipino seafarers and a dedicated seafarers’ welfare center providing welfare, training, healthcare and legal services.

The President said the government is also implementing reintegration and livelihood programs for returning seafarers.