Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers: Landmark law for 2024

Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers: Landmark law for 2024
Yashika F. Torib October 22, 2024 https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/10/22/tmt-anniversary/magna-carta-of-fi...

THIS year's celebration of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month or Mana Mo is marked by the momentous signing of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.

The law has been signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sept. 23, 2024.

Following the President's move, the Department of Migrant Workers and the Maritime Industry Authority or Marina are expected to formulate the implementing rules and regulations within 90 days.

The law is the harmonized version of Senate Bill 2221 and House Bill 7325, also known as Republic Act 12021 or An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.

It is an enabling law of the Maritime Labor Convention 2006 and the Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping Convention; thus, reinforcing the country's commitment to international maritime standards.

The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers also establishes comprehensive protection for seafarers both at sea and onshore, ensuring they receive fair compensation, adequate training, and access to social and welfare benefits. Key provisions of the law include mandatory shipboard training, fair treatment in the event of illness or injury, and strict regulations to prevent ambulance-chasing among others.

The fraudulent and costly injury claims made by ambulance chasers over the years against maritime employers is reportedly costing Filipino seafarers their jobs.

A report that has been made by the International Group of P&I, a mutual society of shipowners covering 80 percent of ships worldwide, reveals that approximately P2.8 billion in reversed judgements have been wrongfully paid to seafarers.

This data is corroborated by both the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the National Conciliation and Mediation Board.

The predatory seafarer claims industry in the Philippines has resulted in companies looking at other countries for their seafarer workforce.

The Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (Alma) has previously stated that the law will lead to a more secure future for all Filipino seafarers.

"This increased protection will not only shield them from harmful systems but also open up more job opportunities and contribute to a stronger and more robust seafaring industry," says Alma in a statement.

The signing of the Magna Carta is welcomed by maritime industry leaders, including the largest union of Filipino seafarers, the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines, as "an important victory for all Filipino seafarers serving onboard domestic and international vessels."