The final reading of a measure that passes a bill in favor of Filipino seafarers’ interests and rights, known as “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,” was approved in March with the aim to ensure that they have “full protection” before, during, and after employment, especially in the event of maritime accidents, epidemics or pandemics, or other natural or man-made crisis. As informed, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted to pass House Bill (HB) No. 7325, shortly titled “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,” which also aims to develop a pool of competent and world-class seafarers “through a system of education, training, certification, and licensing.” Our seafarers are our unsung heroes. Almost 400,000 of them are on board merchant shipping vessels around the world at any given time. They are not only a source of income for the country through their remittances but also a source of pride, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said.

LINK: https://seafarertimes.com/2020-21/node/8289