HOUSE Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs chairman and Tingog Partylist Rep. Jude Acidre, joined by DMW Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac and former chairperson of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs and Kabayan Party-list Representative Ron Salo, has led a crucial dialogue with prominent international maritime stakeholders at the ALMA Fellowship Dinner Meeting held at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila.

This event, organized by the ALMA Maritime Group, aimed to bridge connections, communicate candidly on important issues, and provide updates on recent regulatory changes, particularly the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.

The fellowship brought together key figures from the maritime and diplomatic communities, including Atty. Iris Baguilat of Döhle Seafront Crewing Manila; Tore Henriksen, Chairman of the Joint Maritime Committee of the German, Norwegian, Dutch, French, Danish, and Nordic Chambers of Commerce; Dr. Martin Kröger, CEO of the German Shipowners’ Association; Francesco Gargiulo, CEO of the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC); Ambassador Christian Lyster of the Norwegian Embassy; and Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOTR).

Acidre, who currently serves as the Chairperson of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, highlighted the essential contributions of Filipino seafarers to the global maritime industry, emphasizing that they make up roughly a third of international shipping crews. He underscored the Magna Carta’s commitment to protecting these workers from exploitative practices such as “ambulance chasing,” which has impacted the industry’s reputation. Specific sections of the Magna Carta, designed to combat this practice, were praised by industry leaders as a long-overdue reform.

Discussions at the event addressed security challenges in the Red Sea maritime passage, a critical route linking Asia to Europe through the Suez Canal. This route has faced increased risks due to Houthi rebel attacks, prompting some shipping lines to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, resulting in longer transit times, higher costs, and global supply chain delays. Acidre called for enhanced safety measures for Filipino seafarers navigating these high-risk zones, advocating for real-time monitoring, updated life-saving equipment, and comprehensive risk assessment protocols.

The forum also explored sustainable recruitment, emphasizing maritime education and training programs tailored to future industry needs. “By setting high standards for recruitment and training, we instill pride and confidence in our seafarers, preparing them not just for their first voyage but for lifelong careers,” said Acidre.

Career advancement opportunities were discussed, with a focus on up-skilling and leadership development to ensure Filipino seafarers are well-prepared for progression within the industry. Acidre advocated for fair compensation and a reassessment of salary standards to align with the Magna Carta’s goals of respect, recognition, and financial security for seafarers.

Acidre concluded by calling for strengthened collaboration between government and industry to bring the Magna Carta to fruition. “Together, let’s build a brighter future for Filipino seafarers, creating an industry that is competitive and deeply committed to the welfare of its workforce.”

AUTHOR PROFILE

Ryan Ponce Pacpaco