Following the passage of the Magna Carta for Seafarers, Sen. Grace Poe committed to continue advocating for policies and initiatives to benefit maritime workers.
The Senate approved the Magna Carta for Seafarers bill on third and final reading late Wednesday, a measure that the President had previously designated as urgent.
Poe noted that the proper government agencies should be alert to guarantee that the benefits of the Magna Carta are brought about once it is signed into law.
“As legislators, we vow to continue pushing for a maritime related policies and support programs and projects that will further improve and promote the development of the maritime industry,” she said.
Poe said the Magna Carta, which is now one step closer to becoming law, bodes good for the welfare of almost 500,000 Filipino seafarers who operate on passenger and cargo ships all over the world.
In 2022, their remittances accounted for $6.71 billion or 1.66% of the country’s gross domestic product.
“Hindi maitatanggi na malaki ang kontribusyon ng marinong Pilipino sa pagpapaunlad ng ekonomiya lalo na ng maritime industry hindi lamang dito sa ating bansa maging sa buong mundo. Kinikilala sila sa kanilang angking sipag, dedikasyon, professionalism,” Poe said.
“Our Pinoy seafarers can soon be assured of smooth sailing days as they sail in foreign waters for their families,” Poe added.
