The Concerned Seafarers of the Philippines (CSP) over the weekend called on Jerome T. Pampolina, Assistant Secretary for Sea-based OFW Concerns at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), to voluntarily inhibit himself from the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers due to a significant conflict of interest.

In a letter addressed to DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the CSP highlighted Pampolina’s past association with the Del Rosario Law Office, a leading firm that represents manning agencies and foreign principals.

The organization raised concerns that this affiliation could compromise the fairness of the IRR process, stating, "We humbly submit that it is our perception that Pampolina suffers from a conflict of interest as the IRR that he is drafting appears to us to be too favorable to the local manning agencies and their foreign principals."

Step back

"We firmly believe that Pampolina's involvement poses a serious conflict of interest that must be addressed to ensure that the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers are not compromised," Jose Xavier Bayoneta, CSP chairperson, said.

"We urge him to step back from this role and allow for a transparent and equitable drafting process," he added.

The CSP is also advocating for an additional round of consultations to ensure that the concerns and needs of seafarers are fully represented.

The letter detailing this request, according to CSP, will be furnished to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Office of the Ombudsman, and other relevant government agencies.

As the maritime industry faces ongoing challenges, the Concerned Seafarers of the Philippines remains committed to protecting the rights of Filipino seafarers and ensuring that their voices are heard in all regulatory matters.