More than half a million Filipino seafarers have guaranteed protection and continuous employment after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed yesterday the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.

Republic Act 12021, or An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, ensures equal opportunities in the maritime industry regardless of gender or creed, including access to education, training and development, consistent with existing domestic and international laws, standards and conventions.

“Filipino seafarers are assured of a bright future—one that acknowledges their sacrifices and protects them from occupational hazards. One where their voices are heard, their rights are upheld, their families feel the support of the nation that understands the weight of their duty,”  Marcos said during a ceremony at the Malacañang Palace.

The Magna Carta of Seafarers aims to protect the rights and overall welfare of domestic and overseas Filipino seafarers as well as promote their full employment.

“The new law aims to uphold the fundamental rights of Filipino overseas seafarers. Their rights to fair wages, safe working conditions, and skills and competency, among others,” said Marcos.

“This Magna Carta will also strengthen the role of our maritime institutions and stakeholders by setting the standards for the quality of accommodation, food, medical care and other services that are provided for seafarers,” he added.

This will address recurring deficiencies in the domestic laws pertaining to the training and accreditation of thousands of Filipino seafarers which endanger their employment in the global maritime arena.

DOTr data showed there are  798,309  Filipino seafarers as of July 1, 2024.

Witnessing the signing are members of the Congress and other national and local officials, including Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.