Protecting our seafarers

It was indeed a milestone when Philippines became the 30th member-state of the International Labor Organization (ILO) to ratify the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC of 2006).

According to ILO Director-General Juan Somavia, who personally expressed appreciation for the Philippine vote, the 30th vote finally sets into force what has been dubbed the seafarers’ international bill of rights.

The MLC 2006 consolidates and updates maritime labor standards. It  will benefit some 300,000 overseas Filipino seafarers and 60,000 domestic seafarers.

Once it enters into force—12 months after the date on which there have been registered ratifications by at least 30 member-states—the MLC 2006 will be the “fourth pillar” of the international regulatory regime for quality shipping, maritime officials said.

It will complement other key conventions such as: the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (Solas); International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping, 1978, as amended (STCW); and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships(MARPOL).

The country’s ratification of MLC 2006, according to OSM Maritime Services president, Rear Admiral Adonis Donato, will help push their idea of “permanent employment” and extended benefits for seafarers. Donato said seafarers under the scheme he has in mind would have the opportunity to get “perpetual” job contracts, especially for those who are “loyal and very productive” to their respective companies. No more worries of getting a new job contract after the previous one expires, he says.

It also includes big benefits such as continuous allowances for seafarers, paid vacation leaves, special insurance, pension plans,  and other family benefits. OSM, pursuing this scheme, considers the seafarers it deploys as “regular employees.”

OSM also has a cadet program wherein they support the education of aspiring seafarers from the very start up to graduation, and employment.

OSM Maritime Services has submitted this proposal to Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) although it is still under review.

Susan Andes, aka Susan K. is on board at Radyo Inquirer 990 dzIQ AM, Monday to Friday 12:30-2:00p.m. with audio/video live streaming: www.dziq.am. PTV 4 Fridays 10:15-11:15pm

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