President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday witnessed the ceremonial signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, marking a historic milestone in safeguarding the rights and welfare of the country’s maritime workforce.
The event was held at Malacañang Palace, with Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Sonia Malaluan as signatories.
The Magna Carta, officially known as Republic Act No. 12021, provides comprehensive legal protections for seafarers, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect throughout their careers.
The law aims to address longstanding challenges in the maritime sector while elevating the global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers.
President Marcos highlighted the significance of the IRR signing, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to safeguarding the rights of the country’s maritime workers.
Speaking at the ceremony, he underscored the collaborative efforts of government agencies and maritime stakeholders in crafting the regulations.
“Only three months after I signed the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, we now witness the signing of its Implementing Rules and Regulations. This reinforces our commitment to ensuring the welfare of our seafarers,” Mr. Marcos said.
The IRR introduces several groundbreaking measures to protect seafarers. Among these is the establishment of One-Stop Shop Centers aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining processes.
It guarantees seafarers fair medical treatment and access to free legal representation, particularly in cases of illness, injury, or legal disputes.
The regulations also provide strong protections for women in the maritime industry, promoting gender equality, safeguarding against harassment and discrimination, and expanding opportunities for education and career advancement.
Employment conditions under the IRR will adhere to international standards, with clear guidelines on work hours, rest periods, and compensation.
The Magna Carta also emphasizes the need for advanced training programs and modern facilities to ensure Filipino seafarers remain competitive in the global maritime sector.
He called on government agencies, including the Department of Transportation, the Maritime Industry Authority, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Department of Migrant Workers, to ensure the IRR’s swift and effective implementation.
“These provisions are not just words on paper but a bulwark that our seafarers can rely on,” he said, urging agencies to issue all remaining guidelines and monitor compliance by stakeholders.
The President expressed his gratitude to Filipino seafarers for their resilience and excellence, acknowledging their vital role in representing the Philippines on the world stage.
“In every voyage, in every journey you undertake, we are behind you, serving to further uphold your security, dignity, and rights.” he said.
The signing ceremony was attended by key government officials, maritime leaders, and representatives of seafarer organizations.
For his part, Cacdac praised the event as a testament to the nation’s commitment to its maritime workforce. He thanked lawmakers, industry leaders, and maritime organizations for their collaborative efforts in crafting the IRR.
