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August 2024 News Updates

The maritime industry in the Philippines faces a multitude of challenges, from heightened risks in conflict zones and legislative battles over the rights of seafarers, to systemic issues in maritime education. Recent advisories, legislative discussions, and concerning graduation rates all paint a complex picture of an industry in flux. This month, we highlight the Department of Foreign Affairs' (DFA) warnings to seafarers about the dangers of the Red Sea, the call for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto a contentious version of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers, and the alarming statistics on maritime education completion rates. In light of these developments, Lacerta remains steadfast in its mission to support the safety, rights, and professional growth of Filipino seafarers.


Red Sea Tensions: A Call for Caution

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) recently issued an urgent advisory urging Filipino seafarers to avoid sailing in the Red Sea, following a Houthi attack on an oil tanker that left 23 Filipino crew members adrift. The attack, which also involved two Russian crew members, has escalated the risks in an already volatile region. The DFA highlighted the increasing dangers in the area, noting that the situation has deteriorated due to ongoing conflicts. In response, the agency encouraged seafarers to exercise their "right-to-refuse sailing" in the Red Sea and emphasized the need for shipping companies to reconsider deploying their crews in such high-risk zones. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac supported this call, revealing that 122 seafarers have already declined assignments involving the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and reaffirming the ban on hiring Filipino seafarers for vessels with a history of crew harm in these waters.


Debating the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers

Simultaneously, there is a heated debate over the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers, a bill aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers. Representative Arlene Brosas of Gabriela has called for President Marcos Jr. to veto the current version of the bill, which she argues has been "watered down" and fails to adequately safeguard seafarers' rights. The controversy centers around provisions related to escrow and bonds for monetary claims, which have been criticized for potentially disadvantaging seafarers seeking compensation for injuries or disabilities incurred on duty. Maritime lawyer Dennis Gurecho, along with other critics, argues that the bond provision penalizes seafarers rather than addressing the root issue of "ambulance chasing" by unethical law practitioners. Brosas and other lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc are advocating for a more robust version of the bill, which includes provisions for free legal assistance and streamlined claims processes, ensuring that seafarers receive the justice and compensation they deserve.


Maritime Education: Low Graduation Rates and Systemic Challenges

Adding to the concerns in the maritime sector, recent data from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) reveals a troubling trend in maritime education. Only around 19% of students enrolled in maritime programs in the Philippines graduated on time between 2018 and 2023. The Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and Marine Engineering programs, which are crucial for producing the country's marine deck officers and engineers, have been particularly affected. The primary reason for this low graduation rate is a lack of training opportunities on ships, a critical component of the curriculum that involves a year of shipboard training. Rep. Ron Salo of the Kabayan Partylist has highlighted the need for better facilities and mechanisms to ensure students can complete their training, as mandated in the proposed Magna Carta for Seafarers. The European Commission's 2023 decision to continue recognizing Filipino seafarers' certificates, after threatening to withdraw recognition due to substandard training, underscores the urgency of addressing these educational shortcomings.


Supporting a Stronger, Safer Maritime Sector

At Lacerta, we recognize the critical challenges facing the maritime sector and remain dedicated to supporting the safety, rights, and professional development of Filipino seafarers. Whether through advocating for safer sailing conditions, fair and equitable legislation, or improved education and training opportunities, Lacerta stands by its commitment to enhancing the welfare and working conditions of seafarers. We will continue to collaborate with industry stakeholders to ensure a secure, sustainable, and prosperous future for all those who navigate the seas.


Sources:

A watered down Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers


DFA to seafarers: Avoid sailing in Red Sea


Only 1 out of 5 graduate from maritime programs on time — CHED data






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