Benedict Maravilla

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. signed into law the Magna Carta for Filipino seafarers that aims to acknowledge and protect their rights in domestic and international relations.

Photo Courtesy of Maritime Fairtrade/ITF Seafarers.

In a ceremonial signing at the Malacañang Palace on September 23, Marcos signed the Republic Act 12021 or "An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers".

Marcos in a speech said that the newly signed law will ensure to uphold the fundamental rights of seafarers, rights to safe working conditions, fair wages, maritime institution advancement and skills training, and right against discrimination.

“Behind every voyage, we, as a nation, have too often overlooked [the seafarers’] long way away from their homes and their families; the weight of isolation, of unpredictable conditions; [and] countless threats to their safety and security,” he added.

The law is also said to strengthen the legal framework in giving adequate training, secure contracts, just wages, and fair benefits to Filipino seafarers.

Marcos also cited in his speech during the ceremony the missile and gun boat attacks on cargo ships and tankers passing the Red Sea where some Filipino seafarers were affected, saying that the law will cover them against threats to their safety and security.

“These are not just occupational hazards, they are actual human experiences. So, today’s signing of the Magna Carta for Filipino seafarers is our collective acknowledgment of these sacrifices,” he said.

It can be recalled that the bill-turned-law was urged to be proposed in September 2023 and was delayed for signing in February 2024 as it was still undergoing review.