By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. called on various government agencies to ensure the effective implementation of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers, emphasizing the need for robust support to the nation’s maritime workforce.
The President made the appeal during the signing ceremony of Republic Act No. 12021 in Malacañang, highlighting the importance of the law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) in safeguarding the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers.
“Monitor its strict compliance by all stakeholders and assist our seafarers to maximize the benefits that it provides,” Marcos stated, urging the Department of Transportation, Maritime Industry Authority, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Migrant Workers to take an active role in its enforcement.
“Let us ensure that every provision of this law and its IRR are not just words that appear on paper, but a bulwark that our seafarers can rely on,” he added.
The IRR was crafted to bolster the welfare and protect the rights of Filipino seafarers, who are integral to the global maritime industry and the Philippine economy. Provisions in the law address employment standards, social protection, health and safety, skills training, and family support, all aimed at improving the quality of life for seafarers.
In addition, the Magna Carta shields Filipino seafarers from exploitation, offers legal aid, and strengthens regulations to ensure that they are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, both locally and abroad.
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