PH imaritime, Makati (2026)

08/10/2025

Dutch shipping group Spliethoff disclosed on Monday that the Filipino seafarer, who was critically injured when Houthi militants attacked the general cargo ship Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden last September 29, has died.

According to Spliethoff, the seafarer, who died in a Djibouti hospital, was one of the two Filipino seafarers injured in the attack.

The other injured crewmember remains under medical care in Djibouti but is reported to be in stable condition and expected to return home shortly, Spliethoff added.

"The news of the seafarer's death has deeply saddened everyone at the company as we mourn the loss of a respected and valued seafarer." The company stated it was providing support to the family and the remaining crew,” the Dutch shipping group said.

The seafarer's death is the first fatality linked to Houthi attacks since July, when four crew members were killed and five others went missing after the bulk carrier Eternity C was struck and sunk in the Red Sea.

The other ten Filipino crewmembers of Minervagracht, who survived the attack, arrived home safely last weekend and were welcomed by DMW Sec. Hans Leo Cacdac.

PHOTO credit: DMW

02/10/2025

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the 12 Filipino crewmembers of the MV Minervagracht sank in the Gulf of Aden following a missile attack by Houthi militants on Monday, September 29.

According to a PNA report, two of the 12 Filipino seafarers were injured in the attack, which is considered a significant escalation being one of the most serious Houthi assaults on commercial shipping outside the Red Sea since November 2023.

The MV Minervagracht has a total of 19 crewmembers. Aside from Filipinos, there were Russians, Sri Lankans, and Ukrainians who were all safely evacuated after the ship sustained serious damage in the attack. The Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority said the vessel hasank in the Gulf of Aden.
"Ten out of the 12 (Filipinos) are due home this weekend. Iyong dalawa will be treated muna. “Yung isa with minor injury, baka sumama na dito. ‘Yung may serious injury is continually being treated. But as far as we know, (he is) out of danger," the secretary said.

The report said the cargo vessel was attacked for violating the "entry ban to the ports of occupied Palestine," according to the Yemeni Armed Forces.

Secretary Cacdac said the DMW, together with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), is closely coordinating with the shipowner in assisting the crew.

He said the families of the seafarers had been informed about the incident and their repatriation.

Photo credit: PNA

24/09/2025

AMOSUP cautioned members against participating in any online chat groups that share illegal content or clicking on suspicious links, as these may expose them to the risk of being flagged by authorities as complicit in unlawful activities, which may lead to possible legal action and deportation.

In an advisory issued this week, AMOSUP strongly advised its members, especially cruise ship personnel who are unknowingly added to chat groups sharing illegal content, to: immediately exit the group, report it as spam, and notify the ship's chain of command or relevant authorities.

In its advisory, AMOSUP informed members that "the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) uses advanced technology to vet visa holders, including those with C1/D visas. Their vetting is not limited to time spent in the U.S."

"Hence, if you have ever downloaded or shared illegal material or clicked on suspicious links , even outside the U.S., you should assume that authorities may be aware. If questioned by the CBP, denial is strongly discouraged."

Earlier, AMOSUP Administrative Secretary Atty. Alex Ragonjan disclosed that the CBP's advanced technology is so powerful that it can detect a seafarer's visits to illegal sites as far back as 15 years ago.

“Ang nakakatakot, kung ginawa mo yung pag-visit sa p**n site kahit 15 years prior, andoon pa rin yung pangalan mo. Kasi yung bagong technology nila, yung buong buhay mo, IP address at yung email addresses mo naka-specify sa iyo iyon, so kaya ka nilang i-track,” warned Atty. Ragonjan.

13/09/2025

𝗔𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗨𝗣 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀

To kick off preparation for the 65th anniversary of the nation's biggest seafarers' union, the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) unveiled, last September 11, the My AMOSUP Online in a bid to bring its services closer to members.

AMOSUP staged the "soft launch" of My AMOSUP Online, a digital platform where members can access the union's service units, events , and advisories using their smartphones, at the first-ever Kapihan sa AMOSUP, held at the AMOSUP Convention Center in Intramuros, Manila.

"My AMOSUP Online can be accessed through a web browser at https://my.amosup.online. A mobile application is also available for Android users, downloadable at Google Play Store, while the app for Apple and Huawei users is in the works," explains AMOSUP Network Administrator Nixon Forteza at the Kapihan.

My AMOSUP Online, which is still in Beta mode, is exclusively for AMOSUP members. The app initially includes the Sailor's Home Online Registration (SHORe) System, where members can check in at Sailor's Home Manila, as well as the Provident Fund electronic form (E-form) for members who want to process their Provident Fund claims.

The app addresses the challenges confronting union members, especially those from the provinces, in reaching out to Sailor's Home to make arrangements for accommodation.

Forteza added that his team is currently working on harmonizing the data system of the union while improving and expanding My AMOSUP Online to cover all of the service units of AMOSUP throughout all of its branches nationwide.

He assured members that their personal details are safe and also discussed steps to secure their personal information in compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012. EAC

11/09/2025

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗮

The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has urged marine insurers to take steps to raise awareness and contribute in eradicating sexual misconduct at sea, warning that shipowners could be held directly liable in sexual misconduct cases.

Delegates at IUMI’s annual conference recently in Singapore were reminded that marine insurers have moral responsibility to address the worsening problem, citing latest data that 25% of women in maritime reported experiencing physical or sexual assault on board.

The union also highlighted the fact that shipowners have legal responsibility to provide safe working environment, and could be held liable should they have prior knowledge of the perpetrator’s previous history.

“Joining with others to prevent sexual misconduct at sea is not just the right thing to do, it is also a risk mitigation strategy,” said Charles Fernandez, chair of the IUMI Legal & Liability Committee.

He mentioned recent cases that in large payouts for victims with claims being paid by insurers. “As marine underwriters, we must do what we can to ensure our assureds are implementing effective safeguards and strategies to eradicate all forms of sexual misconduct,” he said.

“Sadly, almost all women in maritime have experienced some form of sexual misconduct at sea, ranging from unconscious bias to full-scale assault. Sexual misconduct in any form is completely unacceptable and must be stopped,” said Fernandez

09/09/2025

Leading global maritime events organizer and media platform, Seatrade Maritime, has named The Mission to Seafarers as its charity partner to enhance its efforts to support the welfare of two million seafarers worldwide.

This partnership will integrate The Mission to Seafarers' vital work into Seatrade Maritime's international events and into influential Seatrade Maritime News, thus significantly expanding awareness of seafarers' welfare issues, as well as the challenges they face.

"Despite their essential role in global commerce, many seafarers continue to face significant challenges," said Ben Bailey, Director of Program at The Mission to Seafarers. Among these challenges are:
* Financial pressures, with many supporting extended families on a single income
* Occupational hazards, including piracy, shipwrecks, and abandonment
* Limited access to facilities both onboard and in port

"Through our collaboration with Seatrade Maritime, we aim to not only raise awareness but also mobilize tangible industry support for those who keep world trade moving," Bailey added.

The Mission to Seafarers works in 200 ports across 50 countries to address these challenges through:
* Seafarers' Centers offering WiFi, comfortable rest areas, essential supplies, and transportation
* Ship visits by chaplains and ship visitors providing emotional and spiritual support
* Emergency assistance during crises, including abandonment, accidents, and illness
* Family support networks for those waiting at home

Photo credit: SMN

03/09/2025

The ITF is calling on maritime authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to act immediately to save 19 seafarers abandoned in the Persian Gulf.

According to the ITF, the seafarers, 17 of whom are from India – with the remaining two from Bangladesh and Ukraine – are trapped on board oil tanker Global Peace (IMO 9555199) anchored in Al Hamriyah off the coast of UAE. They are holding fake agreements and no insurance.

“This is a shocking case of abandonment that shines a light on how seafarers can be unseen victims of the illicit oil trade – it’s imperative that the UAE’s maritime authorities act now to save these seafarers and put an end to their ordeal,” said ITF Inspectorate Coordinator, Steve Trowsdale.

The Global Peace has no known flag, but it is owned by UAE-based Glory International FZ-LLC. The company has been under US sanctions since April this year.

The plight of the seafarers breaks international law under the MLC 2006 and constitutes an abandonment: the ITF has duly filed the abandonment with the joint IMO and ILO abandonment database.

Many of the abandoned crew have been aboard for 15 months, well beyond the maximum 11-month allowed under for a contract. Despite some seafarers’ contracts have expired more than five months ago, their right to repatriation has been ignored.

The vessel is also believed to have no insurance, while seafarers’ contracts seen by the ITF refer to fictitious ITF collective bargaining agreements.

The UAE is a global hotspot for seafarer abandonment, with ITF data showing that more seafarer abandonments take place in the UAE than in any other country in the region. The UAE has recorded 32 abandoned vessels in the first eight months of 2025.
The country has not ratified the MLC.

Photo credit: ITF

31/08/2025

MARINA maintains 100% resolution rate for complaints and concerns
The MARINA once again demonstrated its commitment to responsive public service by recording an 89.13% compliance rate, while maintaining a 100% resolution rate for complaints and concerns filed through the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center.

The compliance rate — an improvement from 87.8% in June — reflects MARINA’s continued efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in delivering public service.

“The consistent improvement in our compliance rate, along with our sustained 100% resolution rate, speaks to our commitment to serve the maritime sector and the Filipino people better,” said Administrator Sonia Malaluan.

MARINA continues to streamline its feedback and complaints-handling processes, ensuring that public concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.
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27/08/2025

The Nautical Institute offers training scholarships for seafarers
Good news! The Nautical Institute, in collaboration with The Seafarers’ Charity, is extending full scholarship training to seafarers following the award of a fresh grant to support enhanced training in leadership, mental health, and crew well-being.

The Nautical Institute has announced that the fully funded scholarship includes Nautical Institute Academy's most impactful courses, aimed at improving leadership and team dynamics at sea, while fostering a safer and more supportive working environment.
The courses are delivered online and scheduled across varying time zones to ensure accessibility to seafarers worldwide.
One of the courses available is Leadership and Management in Maritime Operations, which goes beyond the basics of STCW requirements, offering a practical, scenario-based exploration of leadership at sea.

Participants will improve their ability in managing diverse teams, resolving conflict, building trust and motivating crew in often challenging environments. This will benefit officers preparing for their next role, crew stepping into leadership roles, and shore managers working closely with seafarers.

Another is Seafarer Mental Health and Crew Well-being, which provides essential skills for identifying, managing and supporting mental health on board. This is ideal for seafarers at any stage of their career, anyone responsible for crew welfare, and those wanting to champion a healthier working culture at sea.
Participants will learn how to promote a positive safety culture, spot signs of distress and implement simple, effective strategies to support well-being for themselves and others.

Seafarers interested in availing of the scholarships may visit The Nautical Institute website: https://www.nautinst.org/
Photo credit: The Nautical Institute

25/08/2025

📖𝗔𝗨𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝟮𝟱 | 𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬

"On this National Heroes Day, may we be reminded to live with courage and purpose, just like our heroes." 🇵🇭 🇵🇭

17/08/2025

Seafarers are enjoying better life on board nowadays.

Overall, seafarers worldwide are happier these days about their wages, food quality, connectivity, and day-to-day activities on board compared to the early part of the year, according to the Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) Quarter 2 2025, which showed the average happiness score rising to 7.54/10 from 6.98 in Q1.

Seafarers are more satisfied with their interactions with fellow crew on board. Digital connectivity, which has allowed them to maintain close family ties and mental well-being, has continued to improve over the last quarter. Food quality, health, exercise, and workload management have also improved.

Personal advancement through training, access to welfare facilities, and the ability to stay healthy also indicated marked improvements. Seafarers' shore leave is the area that showed the least improvement; nonetheless, it is still positive.

Regarding compensation, although they also showed satisfaction with their wages, there are continuing concerns among seafarers about deductions and currency exchange losses.

Amid these marked improvements in their life on board, there is growing anxiety among seafarers about their physical safety and working conditions, according to the SHI published by The Mission to Seafarers.

They expressed concern about preventable accidents -- working at height, entering enclosed spaces, electrocution, and being struck by moving objects -- that still happen regularly. Despite decades of regulation, technological innovation, and awareness campaigns, seafarers continue to witness or experience dangerous failures.

Likewise, seafarers are increasingly critical of the current shift to e-learning in place of traditional, hands-on instruction. They expressed deep concern that priority is given to online learning over actual competence.

Photo credit: SHI-Q2-2025

13/08/2025

The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), India, and ISWAN have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, establishing a framework of cooperation to enhance the welfare, training, safety, and well-being of Indian seafarers and their families.

The MoU brings together regulatory and welfare expertise to deliver coordinated support for seafarers, including emotional, psycho-social, and practical assistance.

This partnership reinforces the shared commitment of both organizations to support Indian seafarers and their families through dedicated outreach, education, and crisis response mechanisms.

This partnership will allow us to work more closely with the maritime administration to address critical welfare challenges, provide timely assistance, and deliver impactful programs such as our helplines, awareness sessions, and outreach initiatives, commented Chirag Bahri, International Operations Manager, ISWAN.

Key areas of collaboration under the MoU include:
* Awareness and Induction Training for cadets and ratings through ISWAN's Seafarers' Education and Awareness Sessions (SEAS) in DG Shipping-approved MTIs.
* Promotion of Port Welfare Committees under MLC 2006 to improve port-level support for visiting seafarers in Indian ports.
* Implementation of ISWAN's Family Outreach Program, which provides guidance and emotional support to the families of seafarers and helps build a stronger relationship.
* Joint promotion of ISWAN's 'Safe at sea...it takes all of us!' campaign to improve gender safety and allyship at sea.
* Integration of ISWAN's 24/7 multilingual SeafarerHelp helpline within DG Shipping's upcoming grievance redressal platform.
* Organization of joint regional events to raise awareness of mental health, safety, and well-being in the maritime sector.

The partnership also recognizes the importance of a seafarer's family and shore-side support networks, especially during crisis situations such as abandonment, psychological distress, or harassment at sea.

Together, we are committed to creating a safer, healthier, and more supportive maritime environment, both at sea and ashore, said Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, the Director General of Shipping.
Photo credit: ISWAN

PH imaritime