Bong Go: Senate's ratification of Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers a timely Christmas gift for them
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go hailed the Senate’s ratification of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers as a timely Christmas gift for them.
Go, one of the authors and co-sponsors of the bill, highlighted its critical importance in protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers—the “unsung heroes” of the maritime industry.
The Senate ratified the bicameral conference committee’s version of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers last Wednesday, December 13.
The measure primarily seeks to enhance the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers. The bill's sponsorship was led by Sen. Raffy Tulfo, chairman of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers.
“As an author of this vital bill, I am filled with immense pride and confidence in the bright future that awaits our esteemed seafarers. This is a testament to our collective commitment to uplift the lives of our maritime workers,” Go said.
“The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is a crucial step in recognizing and safeguarding the invaluable contributions of our seafarers. They are, without a doubt, the unsung heroes of the maritime industry, relentlessly braving the seas and playing a crucial role in our economy. This legislation ensures that their rights are protected, their welfare is prioritized, and their contributions are duly acknowledged,” he further stressed.
The original House version of the measure stipulated 2.5 days of leave in compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention. The Senate’s proposed version was more generous, giving a 4.5 days of leave.
Based on the final agreement, Tulfo said lawmakers settled on a 3.5 days per month of employment to strike a balance between the two initial proposals.
Go noted that another critical aspect of the bill is the institutionalization of shipboard training, which will be regulated and monitored by the Maritime Industry Authority.
“As we move forward, I remain confident that we will continue to advance the interests of our Filipino workers. Let us celebrate this victory for our seafarers, who deserve nothing but the best from their country,” the senator said.