Marcos: IRR must be a bulwark that seafarers can rely on

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Wednesday instructed concerned government agencies that the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers should be a bulwark that Filipino seafarers could rely on.

Marcos made the remark during the signing of the IRR of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers at Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang.

''To the DOTr, MARINA, DOLE, DMW, and other concerned agencies, please ensure the immediate issuance of all remaining guidelines relative to the implementation of this IRR and the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, monitor its strict compliance by all stakeholders, and assist our seafarers to maximize the benefits that it provides,'' Marcos said in his speech.

''Let us ensure that every provision of this law and its IRR are not just words that appear on paper but a bulwark that our seafarers can rely on,'' Marcos added.

The President said the IRR had envisioned a well-prepared and competitive maritime workforce.

''By enhancing access to advanced training and requiring maritime education institutions to adopt cutting-edge facilities, we are equipping our seafarers and cadets to compete in the global arena,'' Marcos said.

''Beyond compliance with international standards, these efforts also secure the future of our seafarers in a rapidly evolving industry,'' he added.

The key features of the IRR include the following:

• Seafarers’ Rights: The IRR codifies essential rights for Filipino seafarers, including the right to safe passage, protection against harassment and discrimination, fair medical assessments, and the right to free legal representation.
• Support for Women in the Maritime Industry: The new regulations emphasize gender equality in the maritime sector, requiring companies to implement policies that promote women’s participation, access to education, and career opportunities.
• Fair Employment Standards: The IRR sets clear, transparent employment standards, including guidelines for working hours, rest periods, job descriptions, and compensation.
• Wages and Benefits: RA 12021 guarantees fair wages for seafarers, ensuring timely payment of salaries, sick leave, vacation leave, and death benefits.
• Social Protection and Welfare: Under the IRR, all Filipino seafarers are entitled to membership in social protection programs such as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Social Security System (SSS), ensuring that seafarers and their families are supported by crucial safety nets.

In September of last year, Marcos signed the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, a priority measure of his administration.

The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers institutionalizes the protection of Filipino seafarers’ rights. It will also serve as a guarantee to the international community that the Philippines will comply with its obligations to international conventions. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA Integrated News