Date of Release:

MANILA, Philippines – To bolster the maritime sector, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed today, 23 September 2024, Republic Act No. 12021, an act providing for the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, with one of its objectives to establish comprehensive guidelines for the education, training, and certification of seafarers in both international and domestic shipping.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) will play a pivotal role in the enhancement of the education and training systems for overseas and domestic seafarers in the Philippines.

The MARINA will have the jurisdiction over maritime education with powers to accredit, regulate, and monitor education and training institutions offering maritime degree programs and technical courses for Filipino overseas and domestic seafarers.

The MARINA will also oversee the establishment of a robust shipboard training framework, which includes defining training durations, qualifications for training officers, and mechanisms to address harassment. This initiative underscores the commitment to not only enhance practical training but also to ensure a safe and supportive environment for cadets.

Furthermore, the Magna Carta emphasizes the necessity for MARINA to consult with industry stakeholders in the creation of training guidelines, reinforcing the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping a responsive and effective maritime workforce.

The new law also enables MARINA to activate a ‘green lane’ to facilitate the safe travel of seafarers, highlighting a proactive approach to ensuring their welfare during crises.

The signing of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers represents a landmark effort to solidify the Philippines’ reputation as a leading provider of maritime professionals globally, equipping Filipino seafarers with the necessary skills to thrive in the industry. With these measures, the MARINA is set to transform the landscape of maritime education and training, ultimately enhancing the safety and professionalism of the Philippine maritime workforce.

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