Marcos honors fallen Filipino seafarers in high-risk areas, vows stronger protection
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signs the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacañang on Monday, January 5, 2026. Yummie Dingding / PPA POOL MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Wednesday honored the fallen Filipino seafarers as wars continue to plague many seas around the globe.
Four Filipino fatalities have been recorded at the Strait of Hormuz, and another three in the Northern Black Sea.
Marcos acknowledged the risks seafarers face during his attendance at the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026 held at the Manila Hotel.
“Our seafarers have found themselves caught in armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions, attacks, and other security incidents they did not create and in which they had no part,” Marcos said.
“Some have suffered injuries, while others have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. We honor their service and their courage, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the families that they have left behind,” he added.
The chief executive vowed stronger systems to protect seafarers.
He said the administration is strengthening “the implementation of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention and Code, keeping our maritime education, training, assessment, and certification systems aligned with evolving international standards.”
One in five seafarers globally is Filipino, positioning the country as the biggest seafarer-supplying country. Marcos said their welfare will be taken care of as they endure harsh conditions at open sea.
“This year, we signed the 2026 DMW Sea-Based Rules and the updated Standard Employment Contracts for Overseas Filipino Seafarers to enhance their protection and accountability,” he said.
“The government likewise established a dedicated Seafarers’ Welfare Center to provide welfare, training, healthcare, and legal support services for Filipino seafarers and their families,” Marcos added.
The Department of Migrant Workers is also investigating if there are Filipinos affected in the collision of the Panama-flagged bulk carrier and the Chinese fishing vessel at the Singapore Strait.
The DMW earlier said thousands of Filipino seafarers remain in high risk areas including the Strait of Hormuz and the Northern Black Sea— but repatriation is ongoing.