The year 2021 began well for the Filipino seafarer: last January 17, the House of Representatives unanimously approved on third and final reading a bill that will work for the benefit of seafarers and their families: the proposed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (House Bill 8057).

All 217 lawmakers voted in favor of the bill, which aims to improve Filipino seafarers’ working conditions, terms of employment, career prospects, as well as enhance their opportunities to fully harness their potentials. No one voted against it or abstained from voting.