DMW chief underscores Filipino seafarers' contributions to international shipping
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized Filipino seafarers' contributions to international shipping, adding that global trade must be matched with fair treatment and adequate protection at sea.
This was stated by Cacdac during Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global 2026 at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, discussing the protection, welfare, and professional development of Filipino seafarers.
The conference brought together maritime industry leaders and international partners to address challenges affecting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the global shipping industry.
International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Safety Division Director Damien Chevallier also called for cooperation among governments and maritime stakeholders to improve seafarers' working conditions.
Cacdac identified quality maritime education, cadetship programs, shipboard training, and continuing skills development as essential to preparing Filipino seafarers for evolving industry demands.
He also cited Republic Act No. 12021, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, which provides protections for employment, working conditions, professional development, and welfare.
“The Philippines intends to remain a reliable maritime partner, recognized for the competence of our seafarers, and a government that stands firmly behind our people, who keep the world's ships safe,” Cacdac said.
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers provides a legal framework to protect seafarers' employment rights, working conditions, welfare, and professional development.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Mission to Seafarers (MTS) signed a memorandum of understanding on 19 October at the DMW Central Office to enhance welfare assistance for Filipino seafarers and their families.
The agreement aims to expand access to welfare and psychosocial care services, particularly for those affected by crises and traumatic incidents.
The MOU also covers case referrals, coordination, and information sharing regarding the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers, including OFWs, and their families.
The agreement provides a framework for both organizations to coordinate welfare assistance, psychosocial support, and referrals for Filipino seafarers and their families.