Metro Manila, Philippines — Seafarers can now bank on a new law that seeks to safeguard their rights and welfare.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, into law during a ceremonial event at Malacañang on Monday, Sept. 23.
A key provision in the law is the enhancement of education, training, and cadetship programs to make sure seafarers meet international standards and remain globally competitive.
It also bans the collection of recruitment, placement, visa, or other related fees, providing relief from so-called unnecessary financial burdens.
In his speech, Marcos described the new law as “timely,” referring to the recent threats in the Red Sea.
“Cargo ships and tankers traveling along that route have been attacked with missiles and with gunboats. Last month, it happened once again with a Greek oil tanker,” said Marcos.
“And these are not just occupational hazards; they are actual human experiences,” he added, noting the dangers seafarers face.
Marcos said the new law seeks “to uphold the fundamental rights of our overseas seafarers: their right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and skills and competency development.”
“When we speak of protection, we speak of shielding our seafarers not only from the perils of the sea, but from exploitation and discrimination that have too often been tolerated,” the president said.
The new law consolidates policies from concerned agencies, namely the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Migrant Workers, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Foreign Affairs, Maritime Industry Authority, and Philippine Coast Guard.
