04/04/2025
🟥SUBJECT: MAGNA CARTA FOR SEAFARERS. GOOD OR BAD?
Some Filipino seafarers are unhappy with the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers (Republic Act No. 12021), While the law was meant to improve their rights and welfare, many believe it has serious problems. Some of the biggest concerns include extra costs for families, expensive training, and unfair rules that seem to favor employers.
Main Issues:
❌1. Ex*****on Bond Requirement
One of the most controversial parts of the law is Section 59, which requires seafarers to pay a bond when appealing a case for claims like disability benefits or damages. Many seafarers say this is unfair because they are already struggling financially. Instead of helping them, the law makes it harder for them to get the justice they deserve.
❌2. Financial Burden on Families
The cost of the ex*****on bond and other legal fees adds more pressure on seafarers and their families. Many seafarers come from poor backgrounds and work hard to support their loved ones. Having to pay these extra costs takes away money that should be used for their families’ needs.
❌3. Expensive Training Requirements
The law has stricter training rules, such as shipboard training for cadets, which has made education more expensive. Major firms warned that the cost of training could go up by at least ₱200,000 (around $3,561). For students from low-income families, this makes it harder to enter the maritime industry, limiting their opportunities.
❌4. Law Favors Employers Over Seafarers
Some seafarers and advocacy groups, believe the law protects shipowners and manning agencies more than the workers. The bond requirement, for example, makes it easier for employers to delay payments while seafarers suffer the financial burden. Because of this, many feel the law benefits companies more than the workers it was supposed to help.
❌5. Some Groups Left Out
The Magna Carta does not cover all seafarers. It excludes those working on fishing vessels, traditional boats, and government ships. Many believe that all maritime workers should be protected under the law.