As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to stay informed about the latest updates in maritime employment regulations. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has rolled out key policy changes that will impact Filipino seafarers and international employers alike.
At Unlad Ship Manning and Management Corp., we remain committed to keeping our seafarers, employers, and stakeholders updated so we can navigate these changes together and ensure compliance with the highest industry standards.
What’s New in 2025?
📜 The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers is Now Law
One of the biggest milestones in maritime regulations is the passage of Republic Act No. 12021, also known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. Signed into law on September 23, 2024, and with its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) released on January 8, 2025, this law strengthens seafarer protection, rights, and welfare both at sea and onshore.
💡 Key Benefits for Seafarers:
- Stronger protections for wages, working conditions, and onboard safety
- More transparency on contracts, ensuring seafarers are fully informed before deployment
- Improved access to legal assistance and reintegration programs
📑 Regular Review of Employment Contracts
The DMW now requires more frequent reviews of seafarers’ employment contracts to ensure they align with international standards and evolving industry needs. This means:
- Updated wage structures to remain competitive
- Better terms and conditions that meet global labor standards
- More protection for seafarers working in high-risk areas
Employers and manning agencies like Unlad must ensure that all employment contracts remain compliant with these regulations.
💰 Better Compensation & Benefits
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers also pushes for better salary structures and benefits, ensuring that Filipino seafarers receive fair and competitive compensation in line with global standards.
🔹 What does this mean for seafarers? Expect clearer breakdowns of wages, overtime pay, and entitlements.
🔹 What does this mean for employers? Compliance with updated salary benchmarks and transparent reporting to DMW.
⚠ Deployment Restrictions in High-Risk Areas
In light of security concerns, Filipino seafarers are now prohibited from being deployed to high-risk maritime zones. As of April 24, 2024, the DMW has restricted deployments to passenger and cruise ships traveling through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
This decision prioritizes seafarer safety and ensures that those deployed to international vessels operate in secure environments.
What This Means for You
🚢 For Shipowners & Employers:
- Stay updated on employment contract revisions to avoid non-compliance.
- Ensure that your crew’s compensation packages meet DMW standards.
- Work with reliable manning agencies like Unlad for compliance and seamless deployment.
⚓ For Seafarers:
- Know your rights and protections under the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
- Keep track of contract updates and benefits to ensure fair treatment.
- Always check with trusted agencies like Unlad before signing contracts or accepting job offers.
Unlad’s Commitment to Compliance & Seafarer Welfare
At Unlad Ship Manning and Management Corp., we are committed to guiding our seafarers and employers through these regulatory changes. Our goal is to ensure compliance, protect Filipino seafarers, and maintain strong relationships with international shipping companies.
We will continue to monitor these developments and provide further updates as needed. If you have questions or need assistance, our team is ready to help.
📞 For inquiries, reach out to us today!
💙 Here’s to a safe, successful, and compliant 2025!
#UnladShipManning #DMWUpdates #SeafarerWelfare #MaritimeRegulations #StrongerTogether 🚢✨
References:
Republic Act No. 12021 – Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers
- Official Document: Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 12021
- LawPhil Text: Republic Act No. 12021
- DelRosarioLaw Article: Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Signed
Deployment Restrictions for Filipino Seafarers
- Philstar News: DMW bans seafarers on Red Sea, Gulf of Aden
- BusinessWorld Online: DMW bars deployment of Filipino seafarers to Red Sea, Gulf of Aden
- Manila Bulletin: DMW bans deployment of Pinoy seafarers to Red Sea, Gulf of Aden
- Department of Migrant Workers Facebook Post: DMW Prohibits Filipino Seafarers on Red Sea and Gulf of Aden-bound passenger/cruise ships
- Xinhua News: Philippines bans deployment of Filipino seafarers on ships transiting Red Sea, Gulf of Aden
- The Star: Philippines bans deployment of Filipino seafarers on ships transiting Red Sea, Gulf of Aden