PHILCAMSAT conducted an orientation session on the Role of Seafarers’ Welfare and Crisis Management Officers (SWACO) and relevant Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Department Orders and Advisories on July 31, 2025. The orientation aimed to strengthen maritime safety and welfare standards and ensure compliance with evolving national regulations.
Key Highlights:
DMW Advisory No. 21, issued on July 10, 2025, addresses recent armed attacks on vessels crewed by Filipino seafarers in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Guidelines for Licensed Manning Agencies (LMAs) and Principals include:
- Rerouting ships away from ITF/IBF-designated warlike and high-risk zones.
- Respecting seafarers’ right to refuse sailing in warlike areas and ensuring their safe repatriation.
- Mandatory incident reporting to the Sea-Based Accreditation Bureau.
- Prohibition on deploying seafarers to vessels previously attacked or still operating in high-risk areas.
The SWACO’s role includes close coordination with the DMW, foreign principals, shipowners, port state control, flag state authorities, and other relevant entities during critical maritime incidents. Their responsibilities cover:
- Monitoring incidents involving deployed vessels and ensuring timely corrective actions and accurate reporting, as required under Section 1.5, Rule II of the IRR of Republic Act 12021 (Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers);
- Assisting in incident investigations;
- Ensuring compliance with maritime safety and security regulations, as well as company protocols;
- Leading safety and crisis-awareness training programs for seafarers.
The session was attended by appointed SWACOs and Fleet Managers from PTC, Jebsen-PTC, and other crew manning companies. It was facilitated by Chief Engineer Alfredo Haboc, with the expert guidance of Capt. Ronald Enrile and Capt. Pol Winston Haboc.
