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MANILA – The removal of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers’ controversial provision that would have mandated the payment of the execution bond is a victory for seafarers, Senator Risa Hontiveros said on Thursday.
Hontiveros hailed the members of the bicameral conference committee for deleting the provision, saying it would help those whose finances are strained due to medical costs.
"Masalimuot man ang ating pinagdaanan, sa wakas, ang ating pakikibaka ay nagbunga ng panalo para sa ating mga seafarers (Even though what we went through was complicated, in the end, our struggle resulted in victory for our seafarers),” she said in a news release.
She said had the provision remained, it would have required seafarers to pay a bond before monetary benefits arising from their disability are given to them.
She said with the bill finally moving forward, the Filipino seafarers will be given greater protection from abuses and violations of their rights and welfare.
"Ang batas na ito ay para sa bawat seafarer na tinawag na bagong bayani dahil sa kanilang kontribusyon sa ating bansa at syempre, sa kanilang pamilya. Naririnig namin kayo, mga kababayan!" (This law is for every seafarer who are called modern heroes because of their huge contribution to the country’s economy and of course to their families),” she said.
On Wednesday, the Senate ratified the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers—filed under Senate Bill No. 2221 and House Bill No. 7325—seeking to protect the rights and overall welfare of Filipino seafarers, promote their full employment, and ensure equal opportunities in the maritime industry.
As of 2022, Filipino seafarers comprise at least 25 percent of global sailors or some 489,000 deployed worldwide.
The remittances from seafarers and maritime workers reached USD6.14 billion in 2020, making them the top contributors to the country’s gross domestic product.
Resounding victory
KABAYAN Party-list Rep. Ron P. Salo said the ratification of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers marked a “resounding victory for our maritime industry, benefiting shipowners, manning agencies, and especially our seafarers.”
“This legislation fortifies their rights, safety, and welfare,” he said.
Salo said the ratification of the bill is not just a legislative victory but a collective declaration of support of Congress for the President’s vision and ambition to revitalize the Philippine maritime sector and align it with stringent international standards, especially those set by the European Maritime Safety Agency.
“With this law, we are setting a global standard. It's not just about compliance or meeting international expectations – it's about leading by example, about showing the world how deeply we value the dedicated individuals who make our proud maritime tradition possible," he said.
“Let this law be the wind in the sails for every Filipino seafarer. Your nation supports you, ensuring a brighter and more secure future.” (With a report from Zaldy De Layola/PNA)
