PH assure protection of Filipino seafarer's rights, welfare in China Maritime Forum 2023

PH assure protection of Filipino seafarer's rights, welfare in China Maritime Forum 2023
Yashika F. Torib August 16, 2023 https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/16/business/maritime/ph-assure-prote...

THE Philippine government, through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), affirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers at the China Maritime Forum 2023.

The forum was an international gathering of maritime experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders last July 9–15 in Cangzhou, Hebei Province, China.
Bernard Olalia, undersecretary of licensing and adjudication at the DMW PHOTO COURTESY OF MS. ERICA MARQUEZ JACINTO

Bernard Olalia, undersecretary of licensing and adjudication at the DMW PHOTO COURTESY OF MS. ERICA MARQUEZ JACINTO

Lawyer Bernard Olalia, undersecretary of licensing and adjudication at the DMW, said that "with the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers, or DMW, the State Policies about labor migration will be strengthened with new and different protective measures and mechanisms in place. First and foremost, the DMW's commitment is to uphold the dignity and human rights of Filipino seafarers and promote their full employment."

"It is the state's policy to ensure that migrant workers enjoy the best terms and conditions of employment," he added.

Olalia detailed the protective mechanisms created under DMW's 'Aksyon Fund' implemented in 2022, and the 24/7 Emergency Response and Action Center Unit, a one-stop shop for all repatriation, welfare and repatriation assistance to seafarers.

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Olalia's message, delivered on behalf of Migrant Workers Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople, reiterated how the Philippines developed as a seafarer capital of the world and the competence of Filipino seafarers.

He assured that the collaboration of the labor sector, private groups, and key stakeholders of the seafaring industry will result in continuous regulation improvement for the protection of the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers.

The Philippines' presence in the China International Seafarers' Forum 2023 is expected to expand interest in the employment of Filipino Seafarers on ocean-going vessels operated or managed by Chinese shipping companies.