BONG GO REMINDS GOV’T TO PROPERLY IMPLEMENT MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS AS IRR RECENTLY SIGNED

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go lauded the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Republic Act (R.A.) No. 12021, also known as the “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.” The ceremonial signing took place at Malacañan Palace on January 7, marking a significant milestone in the Philippine maritime industry.

As one of the authors and co-sponsors of the bill and vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, Go emphasized the significance of this landmark legislation in protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers.

According to Senator Go, the signing of the IRR signals the government’s commitment to improving the conditions of Filipino seafarers and securing their rightful place in the global maritime industry. He reminded concerned agencies to properly implement the law.

Acknowledging them as the “unsung heroes” of the maritime industry, he praised their dedication and sacrifices, which have contributed significantly to the global shipping sector and the country’s economy.

“This law is a crucial step forward in ensuring that the rights and welfare of our seafarers are upheld,” Go said. “Their hard work and sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they are vital to the maritime industry and our country’s progress.”

Senator Go has consistently championed the Magna Carta, driven by the need for clear policies that protect seafarers from the inherent risks of their profession, including long working hours, limited rest periods, and exposure to health hazards. The legislation establishes safeguards for fair contracts, access to health care and social benefits, and efficient dispute-resolution mechanisms.

“This law aims to address the challenges faced by our seafarers and ensure that their dignity as workers is respected,” Go explained. “It also strengthens our compliance with international standards, which enhances the global competitiveness of our Filipino maritime workforce.”

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the welfare of Filipino migrant workers, saying, “This is part of our broader mission to improve the lives of every Filipino working overseas. We will continue to fight for reforms and measures that uplift their condition.”

Go’s other efforts to champion the welfare of migrant workers have also materialized with the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers, the establishment of a dedicated OFW Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga during the Duterte administration, and the ongoing operations of a Malasakit Center in the said hospital.

Then President Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11641 in December 2022, creating the DMW. The Senate version of the Act was authored and co-sponsored by Go.

He has also filed Senate Bill No. 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and SBN 2414 or the “OFW Ward Act” to ensure that every hospital under the Department of Health (DOH) provides dedicated care for migrant workers and their families if enacted into laws.

“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo, at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon,” concluded Go.