JMG, AMOSUP propose ‘managed risk’ framework for seafarers in Persian Gulf

MG, AMOSUP propose ‘managed risk’ framework for seafarers in Persian Gulf
Carmela I. Huelar May 2, 2026 https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/02/business/maritime/mg-amosup-propo...

​MANILA, Philippines — In response to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the Philippines' top maritime bodies have formally proposed a new regulatory framework to govern the deployment of Filipino seafarers into High-Risk Areas (HRA) and War-Like Areas (WLA). The Joint Ship Manning Group (JMG) and the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) submitted the proposal, titled “Managed Deployment Framework for Filipino Seafarers in High-Risk Areas (HRA) and War-Like Areas (WLA) in the Persian Gulf,” to Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac on April 17, 2026.

The core strategy of the proposal highlights a shift toward a “Managed Risk Approach.” Rather than implementing broad bans that could disrupt global trade and seafarer livelihoods, the industry advocates for a tiered system where deployment is permitted only if risks remain manageable under international safeguards and are voluntarily accepted by the crew. The signatories argued that national policy is most effective when it aligns with and reinforces existing international structures, such as the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC, 2006), rather than introducing parallel or additional layers of regulation.

​The proposed framework aims to provide the DMW with a clear, objective, and defensible basis for allowing, restricting, or suspending deployment through several key mechanisms. It positions licensed Philippine manning agencies as the primary accountable entities for verifying and documenting compliance with applicable international requirements prior to deployment.

Furthermore, it establishes a tiered, risk-based system that distinguishes between the presence of risk and the loss of manageability of such risk. The framework also recognizes the practical and operational constraints affecting crew change and repatriation, particularly where vessels are unable to transit and where such movements depend on the availability of commercial or chartered air transport.

​In a joint statement, Marlon R. Roño, Chairman of the JMG, and Dr. Conrado F. Oca, President of AMOSUP, along with other industry leaders, emphasized that while the government's duty is to protect, the solution must be grounded in the reality of global shipping.

The group stated that "We fully recognize that the risks currently present in the Persian Gulf are real, complex, and driven by geopolitical developments beyond the control of seafarers, shipowners, or any single State."

They further noted that Filipino seafarers operate within a highly internationalized system, serving on vessels under foreign flags and managed by global shipping companies.

​The signatories further noted that the framework is designed to ensure the Philippines remains a top provider of maritime talent without compromising lives. In their joint statement to the DMW, the leadership collectively submitted that "This framework enables the Government to maintain a position that is both protective and operationally grounded, demonstrating that Filipino seafarers are deployed only where safeguards are in place, risks are manageable, and participation is fully informed and voluntary on the part of seafarers." They emphasized that this approach does not introduce new substantive obligations on shipowners but ensures that existing international and industry standards are effectively implemented.

The JMG and AMOSUP have requested a formal meeting with Secretary Cacdac to refine and operationalize the proposal, standing ready to work closely with the DMW to protect the safety, welfare, and dignity of the nation's seafarers. The industry signatories included Marlon R. Roño of JMG and PJMCC, Dr. Conrado F. Oca of AMOSUP, Josephine J. Francisco of the Filipino Association for Mariners Employment (FAME), Pedro Miguel F. Oca of PAMAS, Dario R. Alampay Jr. of the Filipino Shipowners Association (FSA), and Capt. Juanito G. Salvatierra, Jr. of INTERMAP.