MAKATI CITY — ALMA Maritime Group brought major regulatory developments affecting Filipino seafarers and licensed manning agencies to the forefront during its Annual General Meeting and Election on August 18, 2026, in Makati City. The gathering focused on the newly issued seafarer employment framework, updated seabased recruitment and employment regulations, and government initiatives involving licensing, accreditation, and digitalization. Bringing together leaders and representatives from the manning sector, the meeting provided members with updates on regulatory changes expected to influence agency operations, principal relationships, compliance requirements, and the employment and welfare of Filipino seafarers.

Under the in-depth industry discussion, “What’s New, What Matters, What It Means for Your Business,” Atty. Iris Baguilat, ALMA Chairperson, presented key updates and significant changes under the newly issued 2026 DMW Standard Employment Contract for Filipino seafarers. Baguilat discussed developments involving employment conditions, medical and disability claims, occupational illnesses, compensation, and the responsibilities of parties under the updated employment framework. Her presentation examined the practical implications of the changes for seafarers, principals, and manning agencies, particularly in administering employment obligations while strengthening protection for Filipino maritime workers.

Atty. Joseph Rebano of the ALMA Legal Committee, meanwhile, discussed the 2026 DMW Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Seabased Overseas Filipino Workers, highlighting regulatory changes and their implications for manning agency operations. His presentation covered agency licensing, ethical recruitment, data privacy, principal and vessel transfers, recruitment advertising and social media practices, Collective Bargaining Agreement transparency, Pre-Employment Medical Examinations, and strengthened seafarer welfare and critical-incident reporting. The discussion emphasized the need for licensed manning agencies to review their internal procedures and compliance systems in response to the updated regulatory environment.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) also delivered a dedicated session on updates to the Licensing and Accreditation Process, led by Undersecretary for Licensing Atty. Darlene Pajarito, Assistant Secretary for Licensing Atty. Marcy Grace L. Riguer-Teodosio, and Assistant Secretary for Seabased Augusto B. San Diego III. The officials discussed proposed agency license renewal requirements, accreditation procedures and processing workflows, including financial and documentary compliance, escrow and capitalization requirements, Quality Management System compliance, and continuing education and training. DMW also outlined its direction toward deeper digitalization, moving beyond online document submission toward technology- and AI-assisted evaluation capable of identifying deficiencies, providing faster feedback, and reducing manual intervention. Digital signatures and greater end-to-end electronic processing were likewise discussed as part of the government’s longer-term modernization direction.

The gathering also featured the President’s Report and the culmination of ALMA’s election activities, with the organization introducing its newly elected Board of Trustees who will help lead its programs, industry representation, and engagement with government and maritime stakeholders. ALMA likewise paid tribute to its pillars and members who have contributed to the organization over the years, recognizing their service, leadership, and role in strengthening the group and the wider Philippine manning community. The Annual General Meeting concluded by reaffirming ALMA Maritime Group’s commitment to industry collaboration, regulatory compliance, responsible manning practices, and the continuing protection and welfare of Filipino seafarers amid an evolving seabased employment landscape.