The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced its affirmation of the Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being, a new global commitment aimed at strengthening protections for seafarers worldwide.
The declaration, which was signed on October 1, 2024, underscores the Philippines’ leadership in advocating for the rights and welfare of its over 400,000 seafarers, who are vital to both the global maritime industry and the Philippine economy.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stated, “The Manila Declaration is a significant boost to the protection of Filipino seafarers. It demonstrates to the global community that their rights, welfare, and dignity will always be defended.” The move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s recognition of seafarers’ critical contributions.
A Comprehensive Approach to Seafarer Welfare
The DMW’s commitment to seafarer welfare extends beyond policy declarations. The department highlighted its active role in the ratification and implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, as well as its recent efforts in developing seaborne rules and the passage of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers.
In addition to these policy milestones, the DMW is actively enhancing regulatory processes to serve seafarers better. These efforts include improving seabased processing systems, strengthening labor dispute adjudication, and sustaining campaigns against illegal recruitment and trafficking. The department also continues to monitor high-risk waters, such as the Red Sea, to ensure the immediate safety of Filipino crew members.
Crisis Response and Reintegration Support
Following President Marcos’s directive to “bring them home and take care of the families,” the DMW has sustained programs for the reintegration of seafarers and has extended livelihood, financial, and health support to their families.
In recent years, the DMW has led numerous crisis response operations for Filipino seafarers on vessels, including the Galaxy Leader, Tutor, and True Confidence, among others. Assistance was also provided to those affected by incidents in Algeria, Haiti, and the Iran-Hormuz cases.
Secretary Cacdac affirmed that the DMW will continue to strengthen policy frameworks, streamline regulatory processes, and expand welfare programs to uphold the dignity and protection of Filipino migrant workers.
