Prioritize RP seafarers’ welfare – Angara

Manila (20 September) — Senator Edgardo J. Angara pays tribute to the Filipino seafarers and maritime workers around the world in commemoration of the International Seafarer’s Week and the World Maritime Day yesterday.

The Philippines is one of the largest suppliers of seafarers in the global labor industry, making up about a quarter of the world’s maritime population. However, international conflicts and maritime issues over the recent years have made their profession more dangerous.

“In an increasing global economy, human resource becomes an essential factor for growth. This is true especially for our country, as we are known for our world-class workforce?and herein lies the need recognize the importance of Filipino workers,” Angara said.

“For the Filipino seafarers in particular, we must come up with a comprehensive policy that will collate all the separate provisions for them scattered among existing laws,” he said, referring to the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarer’s bill.

This Magna Carta authored by Angara seeks to protect the welfare of our seafarers and their families; improve their working conditions and terms of employment, and provide a better system of training and accreditation.

“We aim to institute well-meaning reforms in our maritime industry and create a holistic approach to recognizing, emphasizing and advancing the issues and concerns of our seafarers,” he explained. (COMSTE)  –PIA Press Release