Marcos signs Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday signed into law the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers which aims to protect the rights and overall welfare of domestic and overseas Filipino seafarers, as well as promote their full employment.

In a ceremony in Malacañang, Marcos signed Republic Act (RA) No. 12021, or An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers before legislators, Cabinet members, and other stakeholders from the maritime sector.

In his message, Marcos said the signing of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is part of the government's collective acknowledgment of seafarers' sacrifices and contributions to the country.

"It is our way of telling our seafarers, we see you, we hear you, and we are here to support you," Marcos said.

He also thanked lawmakers for "bolstering seafarers rights, addressing their challenges, and empowering their dreams."

Marcos said the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is "very timely", citing the recent incidents of attacks on cargo ships and tankers in the Red Sea.

The new law aims to create a comprehensive framework for preserving and improving the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers in local and international shipping. It also seeks to improve seafarers' education, training, and cadetship programs to improve mariners' skills.

It will "harmonize policies" among concerned agencies such as the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Foreign Affairs, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Migrant Workers.

Meanwhile, the MARINA will be mandated to oversee maritime education with powers to accredit, regulate, and monitor education and training institutions offering maritime degree programs and technical courses.

RA No. 12021 also establishes mechanisms, rules, and procedures to ensure the fair, speedy, equitable, and just disposition and execution of decisions granting seafarers' salaries, wages, statutory benefits, and death and disability claims.

If the seafarer wins the appeal, the losing party must immediately reimburse the seafarer's bond. (PNA)