Execution bond removed in the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers

Execution bond removed in the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers
ATTY. DENNIS GORECHO | June 04,2024 - https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/576736/execution-bond-removed-in-the-...

The latest version of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers deleted the contentious provision on the execution bond.

“This provision makes no sense. The reason a seafarer is asking for those benefits is because he has nothing to spend anymore. Already deep in medical expenses and about to drown in bond? I don’t think that’s right,” Senate Deputy Minority Leader Hontiveros said after the bicameral committee’s review of the pending bill.

The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers was not signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last February 26, 2024 and was later withdrawn by the House of Representatives for review.

The Magna Carta seeks to implement the standards set by the Maritime Labour Convention of 2006 (MLC 2006), also known as the Seafarers’ Bill of Rights and the fourth pillar of international maritime law.

The MLC2006 established minimum working and living standards for all seafarers working on ships flying the flags of ratifying countries. The Philippines was the 30th state that deposited its instrument of ratification on Aug. 20, 2012.