The House of Representatives has assured Filipino seafarers that the chamber is in “full support” of their rights and will always promote their welfare and well-being.
“Under President Marcos’ leadership, we are committed to fostering an enabling environment that promotes the welfare of seafarers, supports the growth of the maritime industry, and advances sustainable practices,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said.Administration lawmakers, among them Representatives Ron Salo , Marissa Magsino and LRay Villafuerte , all welcomed the President’s move to prioritize the welfare of Filipino workers in foreign vessels, either commercial or tankers.
“As one of the principal authors in the House, I thank our senators for passing the counterpart measure, Senate Bill 2221, on third reading. This brings us closer to ensuring decent, just and humane working conditions that our Filipino seafarers rightfully deserve,” Magsino said. The House-approved bill also aims to bestow sufficient powers upon the Department of Migrant Workers and other agencies concerned to better protect seafarers, whether in foreign-flagged ships or Philippine-registered vessels operating internationally – up until their retirement.
The bill was included as one of the priority measures of the Legislative-Executive Advisory Council for 2023.