UPHOLDING SEAFARERS' WELFARE. Some seafarers undergoing training at the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) main office training complex in Tacloban City in this undated photo. Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) vice chair Bishop Ruperto Santos on Friday (May 31, 2024) said the immediate enactment of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers bill into law would show the government's commitment to upholding the welfare of seafarers and their contributions to the economy. (Photo courtesy of NMP)
MANILA – A Catholic prelate on Friday said the immediate enactment of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers bill into law would show the government's commitment to upholding the welfare of seafarers and their contributions to the economy.
Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) vice chair Bishop Ruperto Santos made the remark as the bill is just awaiting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s signature for it to become a law.
“Our seafarers are valuable not only because they are essential workers domestically but their services are important contributors to the global economy. It is imperative that we become diligent in safeguarding their well being by protecting their rights and ensuring their welfare,” Santos said in a pastoral statement.
The bill, which was earlier certified by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as urgent, covers Filipino seafarers engaged, employed, or working in any capacity on board Philippine registered ships operating domestically or internationally, as well as those on board foreign registered ships.
However, the bill's ratification was stalled due to a controversial provision that mandates the payment of an execution bond by seafarers before monetary benefits arising from their disability are given to them.
The provision was deleted in the second version of the bill ratified by lawmakers earlier this month before Congress adjourned sine die.
“This great charter aims to secure their rights to decent, just, and humane conditions aboard sea-going vessels, and sets guidelines for their training and education, overseas employment, and retirement,” Santos said.
Santos, meanwhile, said they would continue to support Filipino seafarers, fishers, and their families.
He also noted that they are ready to coordinate with the government in their programs for seafarers.
He encouraged Filipino seafarers to continue to perform well in their job.
“To you, our dear Seafarers, I encourage you to continue to perform your job diligently. Stay committed to your work. Be faithful to what God has called you to do,” he said.
Filipino seafarers are considered the world's most preferred shipping crew, constituting an estimated 30 percent of the maritime workforce worldwide. (PNA)
