A Senate resolution has been filed seeking a review of government safety and monitoring measures for Filipino seafarers deployed in high-risk maritime areas amid growing concerns over their welfare and protection overseas.
The proposed review, filed by Senator Raffy Tulfo, aims to assess the effectiveness of protocols being implemented by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), particularly for Filipino crew members assigned to vessels operating in conflict-prone and health-risk regions.
Tulfo cited recent incidents involving Filipino seafarers that highlighted the dangers faced by maritime workers while at sea.
Among these was the reported drone strike on MV CMA CGM San Antonio on May 6 while the vessel was sailing near the Strait of Hormuz, an area affected by heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf. The incident reportedly injured seven Filipino crew members and one foreign national onboard.
The resolution said the attack underscored the need for stronger safety protocols and more effective monitoring systems for Filipino seafarers assigned to hazardous routes.
It also cited concerns involving the Dutch expedition cruise ship MV Hondius, which reportedly experienced a Hantavirus outbreak in April while carrying 38 Filipino seafarers onboard.
While two infected passengers reportedly died, the DMW said none of the Filipino crew members contracted the virus and that repatriation efforts were being carried out in line with health protocols.
The resolution stressed that the physical and psychological risks faced by seafarers, combined with regional instability and health threats, warrant a thorough review of existing coordination and compliance mechanisms under the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
Lawmakers are seeking to determine whether current government systems are sufficient to ensure the safety, protection, and welfare of Filipino maritime workers assigned to dangerous maritime zones.