Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 24) — A newly formed group vowed to heed the call of seafarers to improve their working conditions.
The Concerned Seafarers of the Philippines (CSP) said they want to ensure that the welfare of their fellow seafarers will be prioritized, instead of manning agencies.
During CSP’s first general assembly on Monday, elected chairperson Engr. Xavier Bayonete pointed out that issues regarding salary, job security, health, and seafarers’ rights are key issues that need to be addressed.
“Minsan, itong mga benepisyo dapat idaan pa sa agency, pero ang dapat nangunguna dito, nakikipaglaban para sa mga seafarers, hindi as an individual kung hindi as a group,” he said.
[Translation: Sometimes these benefits have to be coursed through the agency, but those advocating for the benefits of seafarers, should do so not as individuals but as a group.]
Bayonete added that being part of a union would ensure that seafarers will receive support in their time of need.
He also said that the government should look into the expensive cost of training and paperwork before boarding, which could amount to around ₱83,000, as well as the age limit being imposed on seafarers.
Meanwhile, International Seafarers Action Center president Atty. Edwin dela Cruz expressed support for the CSP, calling its formation amid the COVID-19 pandemic timely to help distressed seafarers.
He urged members of the group to help in lobbying for congressional support for the passage of the Magna Carta for Seafarers to ensure their rights and welfare.
Labor leader and Kilusang Mayo Uno chairperson Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog also encouraged members of the CSP to keep themselves updated on various global labor issues.
“Kung sa mga maunlad na bansa ay nagaganap ang mga krisis at paglaban, mukhang sa darating na taon, higit na mararamdaman natin ‘yong epekto ng krisis na ‘yan lalo na’t ang kalagayan ngayon ay walang patumanggang pagtaas ng presyo, ng langis, at produktong petrolyo kada linggo,” he explained.
[Translation: If crises and unrest are already happening in developed nations, it looks like in the coming year, we would also be more affected, especially in our present situation where the prices of goods and fuel go up unabated every week.]
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople, in an interview with CNN Philippines, assured the seafarers that her office is ready to listen to their concerns.
She also encouraged them to submit recommendations on how to improve their working conditions.
