President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on 8 January, three months after the law’s enactment.
As informed, department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia Malaluan signed the IRR. In his speech, President Marcos highlighted key features of the IRR, including provisions such as:
- Establishing One-Stop Shop Centers for Seafarers to assist them with various needs,
- Ensuring fair medical treatment and access to free legal representation,
- Providing advanced training opportunities for seafarers to remain competitive in the global market,
- Addressing discrimination and intimidation, especially for women in the maritime industry.
For the women in the maritime industry, this IRR is just one of the ways to protect and value you. The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers and its IRR ensure your rights against discrimination and intimidation. This step not only opens up opportunities in the industry, but it also reflects our dedication to a more progressive and more equitable policy in the maritime industry,
… said the President, emphasizing that the IRR “envisions a well-prepared and competitive maritime workforce” by enhancing access to advanced training and requiring maritime education institutions to adopt cutting-edge facilities, equipping seafarers and cadets to compete globally.
Beyond compliance with international standards, these efforts also secure the future of our seafarers in a rapidly evolving industry. These provisions are part of a holistic framework designed to uplift the lives of Filipino seafarers and their families,
… Marcos added.
Furthermore, President Marcos urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the MARINA, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the DMW, and other relevant agencies to ensure the immediate implementation of the IRR.
The Chief Executive also urged strict compliance among stakeholders, to assist seafarers in maximizing the law’s benefits, and to guarantee that every provision of the Magna Carta and its IRR serves as a reliable safeguard for seafarers.
