BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
Fear and worry, that’s what Andrea feels every time her father sets sail.
Aside from being separated from the pillar of their home, she can’t be sure whether the seas he crosses are safe from war or bad weather.
“We don’t know what dangers they might face because, of course, the sea is unpredictable. Also, we can’t talk to them every day because of the time zone difference, it’s night for them while it’s morning for us, and the internet connection is difficult wherever they are,” said Andrea Lara, daughter of a seafarer.
This is just one of the fears faced by the families of seafarers.
Families are calling for the government to ensure their safety and benefits.
So, on January 8, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the IRR for the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed, “The Magna Carta and the IRR guarantee fair medical treatment and access to free legal representation, ensuring that in moments of vulnerability, whether due to illness, injury, or legal challenges, our seafarers will have the support and protection from the government.”
In his speech, the President also highlighted the rights and welfare of female seafarers under the IRR.
“The Magna Carta and its IRR ensure your rights against discrimination and intimidation,” PBBM added.
The IRR also includes the rights of seafarers to safe travel, proper wages, accurate information regarding their work, and their benefits.
PBBM mentioned, “Together, let’s build a new Philippines where every worker, alongside our seafarers, has security and a peaceful future. Long live the seafarers of the new Philippines, thank you all.”
The President called on the DOTr, MARINA, DOLE, and DMW to ensure they fulfill the provisions in the IRR.
The Magna Carta for Seafarers was passed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 23, 2024, but it needed an IRR before it could be implemented.
