The maritime industry plays a vital role in global trade and the economy, and Filipino seafarers have long been recognized as essential contributors to this sector. Lacerta, a leading agency in the shipping industry, stands out for its commitment to hiring experienced and competent seafarers while staying abreast of the latest trends in the industry.
Upholding Seafarers' Rights and Welfare
Lacerta understands the sacrifices and hardships faced by seafarers, who spend long periods away from their families and sometimes experience labor rights violations. Recognizing the need for protection and promotion of their welfare, Lacerta supports the passage of the Magna Carta of Seafarers. This bill, which has been pursued since 2007, aims to ensure seafarers' right to a safe and secure workplace, repatriation, anti-harassment policies, and career advancement opportunities.
Safeguarding Seafarers' Compensation
One of the concerns raised by foreign businesses and industry stakeholders is the exploitation of the seafarer compensation system. The European Joint Maritime Committee, along with chambers of commerce, advocates for the inclusion of an escrow provision in the Magna Carta bill. Lacerta acknowledges the importance of this provision, which protects seafarers and employers from unscrupulous practices. It temporarily holds monetary awards in a third-party account until a final decision is issued by the high court, preventing the misappropriation of funds by ambulance-chasing lawyers.
Collaboration for Seafarers' Rights International bodies like the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and local unions play a critical role in supporting seafarers' rights. In recognition of this, Lacerta actively collaborates with ITF and its affiliated seafarers' unions. The ITF organizes expos and events to educate seafarers about their rights and welfare. Lacerta supports these initiatives, which highlight learning and earning opportunities in the changing maritime industry, ensuring the well-being of crew members on board. Appreciation and Recognition
Lacerta also recognizes the immense contributions of migrant workers and seafarers beyond their economic support for their families. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and Stella Maris Philippines express solidarity with migrant workers and seafarers on the International Day of Family Remittance. These organizations acknowledge the significant role of over 200 million migrant workers worldwide, including Filipino seafarers, who uplift the lives of their families and contribute to the global economy.
Lacerta stands out as a prominent agency in the shipping industry, dedicated to hiring experienced and competent Filipino seafarers while actively engaging in industry developments. By advocating for the Magna Carta of Seafarers, supporting an escrow provision, collaborating with international bodies, and recognizing seafarers' contributions, Lacerta demonstrates its commitment to the welfare and empowerment of Filipino seafarers. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Lacerta remains at the forefront, ensuring the success and well-being of seafarers in the Philippines.
Sources:
Recognizing the Plight and Contributions of Seafarers, Panay News https://www.panaynews.net/recognizing-the-plight-and-contributions-of-seafarers/
Seafarers' Protection Against Ambulance Chasers Urged, Inquirer https://business.inquirer.net/404970/seafarers-protection-vs-ambulance-chasers-urged
ITF expo highlights seafarers, rights, The Manila Times https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/06/14/business/maritime/itf-expo-highlights-seafarers-rights/1895891
CBCP hails OFWs' role in boosting PH economy, PNA https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203428
