Implementation rules signed for Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers

The Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing the IRR for the Magna of Filipino Seafarers Act by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan.

Speaking at the sign the President alluded to it being far from an easy process to draft the IRR talking about “the grind” DMW Secretary and Marina Administrator had gone through and the last-minute adjustments that were made. The drafting of the IRR was a three-month process involving consultation with government agencies, maritime industry stakeholders, training institutions, non-governmental organisations, and civil society groups.

The implementing rules come nearly four months after President Marcos Jr. signed the Magna Carta into law in September last year. The signing of the bill had been repeatedly delayed from January 2024 with particular controversy around the provisions for maritime training and legal cases involving seafarers.

“I am as happy as anyone we have the IRR we can all implement all the provisions in the Magna Carta for our seafarers. It is a very important day for Filipino seafarers,” the President stated. “We witness the signing of its implementing rules and regulations this reinforces our commitment to ensuring the welfare of our seafarers.”

Related:Philippines President signs delayed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers into law

The IRR comprises 22 rules, providing a detailed framework to operationalise the provisions of the law.

The President said, “The Magna Carta and IRR guarantee fair medical treatment and access to free legal representation ensuring that during moments of vulnerability whether due to illness, injury or legal challenges our seafarers will have the support and protection from government.

“It also envisions a competitive maritime workforce by enhancing access to advanced training and requiring maritime education institutions to adopt cutting edge facilities. We are equipping our seafarers and cadets to compete in the global arena.”

However, the signing of the IRR is not the end of the story and a variety of government agencies will now need to develop subsequent policies and guidelines that will bring the Magna Carta’s principles into full effect.

President Marcos Jr. called for government agencies to ensure the “immediate issuance” of all remaining guidelines and to monitor their strict enforcement.