Press Release
September 5, 2011

ANGARA LAUDS PHL'S INCLUSION IN INT'L MARITIME 'WHITE LIST'

Senator Edgardo J. Angara commended Filipino seafarers following the Philippines' inclusion in the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) white list of countries that adhere to the international standards of seafaring.

The IMO's "white list" is based on countries' compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW-95) amended in 1995.

"This is further proof of continued excellence of the Filipino maritime industry because of the performance of our world-class seafarers," he said.

Angara added that the Philippines needs a more comprehensive, definitive policy legislation to protect the welfare of seafarers and ensure the observance of the SCTW-95.

"Right now, various provisions protecting the well-being and safety of our maritime workers are scattered in several laws. This indicates a need for a complete piece of legislation to cover all needs and requirements," explained Angara.

Last year, Angara authored the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers bill, which seeks to progressively develop a pool of world class domestic and international seafarers through continuous education, accreditation and licensing. The bill also contains provisions for the welfare of their families.

Senate Bill No. 2062, entitled "An Act Instituting the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers", was filed by Angara in July of last year. It has been referred to the Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development and the Committee on Foreign Relations after the First Reading. At present, the bill is being tackled at the committee level.

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