The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued an order prohibiting Filipino seafarers from being deployed on passenger and cruise ships navigating the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. This decision follows recent missile attacks targeting passing ships, resulting in fatalities and injuries among Filipino sailors.
“The DMW remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Filipino seafarers,” stated the department. “These measures reflect the DMW’s dedication to ensuring safe working conditions and protecting our seafaring workforce.”
The directive emerged from discussions between the DMW and the Philippine Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC), highlighting the pressing need for stricter safety protocols in these hazardous zones.
Under Department Order 2, Licensed Manning Agencies (LMAs) must sign an “affirmation letter” assuring that vessels their seafarers board will avoid the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. This letter, alongside the vessel’s detailed itinerary, must be submitted to the DMW during crew employment contract documentation or pre-deployment.
Moreover, Filipino seafarers listed as crew members must also sign the affirmation letter, acknowledging their vessel’s avoidance of these perilous routes.
The DMW emphasizes transparency and compliance by mandating LMAs to upload the affirmation letter, endorsed by seafarers, to the DMW’s Online Processing System for Sea-based (DOPS-Sea), alongside the processed Standard Employment Contract (SEC).
“This stringent measure ensures a transparent process, fostering accountability and compliance with the new safety protocols,” concluded the DMW statement.