Improved work conditions for commercial fishers pushed; Wage fairness, safety reforms tackled in major Iloilo forum

Improved work conditions for commercial fishers pushed; Wage fairness, safety reforms tackled in major Iloilo forum
Neljoy N. Galigao - June 14, 2025 https://www.panaynews.net/improved-work-conditions-for-commercial-fisher...

ILOILO City – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 6, in coordination with the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC), has stepped up efforts to overhaul outdated labor policies in the commercial fishing sector through a high-level consultation held here recently.

The forum centered on proposed amendments to Department Order No. 156-16, which sets the rules on the working and living conditions of fishers onboard commercial fishing vessels. It brought together stakeholders from fishing companies, labor unions, and national agencies to address chronic labor issues — including poor safety practices, vague wage policies, and inconsistent enforcement of labor standards.

“Our fishers continue to face unacceptable conditions at sea, from inadequate sleeping quarters to inconsistent pay practices. This dialogue is essential to craft policies that reflect their realities,” said DOLE-6 director Atty. Sixto Rodriguez Jr., who emphasized the department’s commitment to inclusive and humane labor policies.

Also present were representatives from the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), all of whom play key roles in regulating aspects of maritime labor.

Participants discussed ways to ensure better implementation of Republic Act No. 11058 or the “Occupational Safety and Health Standards Act,” particularly in the fishing industry, which is known for its high-risk environment and historical gaps in labor protection.

Among the key provisions being reviewed are mandates on safe working conditions, fair wages, prohibition of child labor, and guaranteed access to benefits and social protection.

Stakeholders flagged several persistent problems, such as overlapping mandates among regulatory agencies, inconsistent inspections, and weak enforcement of OSH standards.

The forum also aimed to clarify ambiguities in labor policies, particularly in compensation structures and employer obligations.

Inputs gathered from this regional workshop will contribute to the final revision of the Department Order.

DOLE stressed that the revisions are part of a broader initiative to align fishing labor regulations with international maritime labor standards, ensuring Philippine fishers are treated with dignity and protected under the law./PN