18/02/2025
Magna Carta
The "Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers" is a law aimed at improving the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers. Officially known as Republic Act No. 11199, it was signed into law on February 20, 2019. This law is also sometimes referred to as the Philippine Seafarers Welfare Act. It provides Filipino seafarers with various benefits, including enhanced labor protection, social security, health, and welfare programs.
Some of the key provisions of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers include:
1. Health and Safety – Seafarers are entitled to health benefits, including access to medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses.
2. Social Security Benefits – Filipino seafarers are eligible for social security benefits, such as disability, retirement, and death benefits, under the Social Security System (SSS).
3. Education and Training – The law mandates that seafarers receive adequate training, education, and skills development to enhance their competency and competitiveness in the maritime industry.
4. Wages and Work Conditions – It establishes guidelines for fair wages, working hours, and other labor conditions to ensure a safer and more supportive working environment.
5. Family Benefits – The families of seafarers are entitled to certain benefits in case of injury, death, or disability of the seafarer during their work.
6. A Seafarer’s Registry – The law provides for the creation of a registry to monitor seafarers' status and ensure their proper benefits are in place.
Overall, the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers aims to address the welfare of Filipino seafarers, who are among the largest groups of overseas Filipino workers, by providing better protection, support, and recognition of their contributions to the maritime industry.