The Philippine maritime sector has started a joint campaign to fight child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online amid detention and deportation of several Filipino seafarers over alleged possession of CSAM as U.S. border control authorities are strictly implementing laws against child abuse.
Shipowners, manning agencies, maritime unions, and government authorities met Tuesday, May 12, for a specialized forum on “Digital Compliance and Seafarer Welfare: Addressing the Impact of CSAM in Maritime Operations”. The forum was organized by the Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (ALMA), in cooperation with Carnival Cruise Line.
The Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (ALMA), led by President Capt. Antonio Ladera and Chairperson Atty. Iris Baguilat started the campaign after receiving guidance from the U.S. Embassy on February 20, 2026. Earlier, ALMA released Memorandum Circular No. 2026-002 to encourage its member agencies to take action.
The circular requires all members of the Manning Agency Accreditation Program to confirm that they check seafarers for any child abuse material-related history before hiring. Agencies now provide mandatory training and briefings before deployment to teach crew members about CSAM prevention and the legal risks of digital content.
Capt. Ladera stressed that the whole industry must work together, since no single group can solve a problem that affects all seafarers and international crews. He said that working together on education, onboard rules, and access to counseling is key to tackling the issue.
The campaign also highlighted the importance of raising awareness and accountability across the maritime workforce. “This is about protecting our seafarers at every level,” Atty. Baguilat said. “One mistake, especially in the digital space, can cost them their careers, their ability to work abroad, and the livelihood of their families. In today’s changing workforce landscape, where global scrutiny is higher and competition is tighter, we cannot afford to lose opportunities because of preventable risks.”
She also said that building discipline and awareness is important for keeping the industry’s good reputation and attracting future workers. “At a time when issues such as conflict, piracy, and safety concerns are already shaping how people view seafaring, we must do our part to keep the profession credible, secure, and attractive. Protecting our seafarers means protecting their employability and ensuring that Filipino crew remain trusted worldwide.”
Officials want all Filipino seafarers to know that having, viewing, or sharing CAM is a serious crime under both Philippine and U.S. law.
The U.S. Embassy warned that breaking these laws can lead to prosecution, deportation, visa loss, and a lifetime ban on entering the United States.
Industry leaders called on all stakeholders, including crewing agencies, shipowners, unions, and seafarers, to take part in the campaign by implementing CAM-prevention measures, reporting suspected violations, and ensuring everyone stays informed about best practices. They urged everyone in the maritime sector to stay alert and take action to protect careers and keep the good reputation of Filipino seafarers worldwide.
