KABAYAN Partylist Rep. Ron P. Salo, one of the principal authors of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (Republic Act No. 12021), lauded the signing of the law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) today as a historic step in securing the rights and welfare of over 600,000 Filipino seafarers.
“This is a historic day for our seafarers. The signing of the IRR marks the beginning of the full implementation of a law that will not only safeguard their rights and welfare but also elevate the Philippines’ standing in the global maritime industry,” Salo emphasized.
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers codifies the rights and obligations of seafarers, strengthens their education and training, and ensures compliance with international maritime standards. It also establishes measures to protect seafarers from exploitative practices and align the policies of government agencies. The IRR provides the specific mechanisms and guidelines for the effective enforcement of these objectives, ensuring that the Magna Carta’s provisions translate into tangible benefits for Filipino seafarers.
The IRR was crafted after thorough consultations with various maritime stakeholders, ensuring that the rules are consistent with the objectives of the law and address the unique needs and challenges of Filipino seafarers.
“I commend the Department of Migrant Workers, under the leadership of Secretary Hans Cacdac, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and all the government agencies that actively participated in crafting the IRR. I also commend the private sectors – both the unions, representing the employees, and the manning agencies, representing shipowners and employers – for their support and active participation,” Salo stated.
Salo also expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for signing the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers into law on September 23, 2024. “I thank President Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support of our maritime workforce. His leadership has ensured the realization of this landmark legislation,” Salo said.
The law, which took effect 15 days after its publication, required government agencies to issue the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) within 90 days. “The issuance of the IRR is a crucial milestone that translates the Magna Carta’s provisions into concrete actions to protect and uplift our seafarers,” Salo added.
The IRR was crafted after thorough consultations with various maritime stakeholders, ensuring that the rules are consistent with the objectives of the law and address the unique needs and challenges of Filipino seafarers. It highlights clear mechanisms for grievance redress, access to training, and improved welfare measures.
“Our seafarers are the pride of our nation. They deserve laws that uphold their rights, guarantee their safety and competency, and recognize their invaluable contribution. With the IRR in place, we take a decisive step toward achieving these goals,” Salo emphasized.
He further added, “I call on all stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the law and its IRR. Together, we can provide our seafarers the support, dignity, and protection they deserve.”
