The Senate unanimously approved the Senate Bill institutionalizing the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on third and final reading, marking an important legislative step for the Philippine maritime industry.
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, a co-sponsor and one of the authors of the bill, applauded its passage as he continues to push for the wellbeing of Filipino seafarers. He called the Senate vote a “triumph for our unsung heroes and a testament to the Senate’s commitment to the welfare of our kababayans at sea.”
“Ang pag-apruba ng Magna Carta ay hindi lamang isang tagumpay sa lehislatura, kundi tagumpay para sa bawat Pilipinong seafarer at kanilang mga pamilya,” he stressed.
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. had prior designated the bill as urgent in order to hasten its progress through the legislative process. The bill has already passed the House of Representatives.
Go also emphasized the measure’s importance in ensuring Filipino seafarers’ credentials are aligned with international norms, particularly in the European market.
“We cannot afford to lag behind in global maritime standards. This bill ensures that our seafarers are trained and accredited according to international norms,” said Go.
Go’s other efforts to champion the welfare of migrant workers have also materialized, with the establishment 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 same hospital.
