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International Conference Culminates with Launch of Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being

MANILA – The International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being concluded with the adoption of the landmark Manila Declaration, a global call to action reaffirming the dignity, safety, and welfare of seafarers as fundamental priorities of the maritime community.

Day 1: Human Rights and Crisis Protection

The opening day set the stage for robust dialogue on the human rights of seafarers. Moderated by Ambassador and Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Hon. Carlos Sorreta, the first plenary emphasized the theme “Upholding human rights at sea for all and at all times.” Panelists from the Philippines, Malaysia, the United Nations, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the International Labour Organization (ILO) underscored the urgent need for stronger enforcement of conventions to address persistent issues such as excessive workloads, unpaid wages, abandonment, and harassment onboard.

In the afternoon, a session on “Protecting seafarers in crisis situations,” moderated by DFA Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa T. Almojuela, focused on the vulnerabilities of seafarers during global emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic and maritime security threats. Speakers from Oman, Mexico, the World Maritime University (WMU), The Mission to Seafarers East Asia, and The Nautical Institute called for heightened preparedness, robust safety mechanisms, and more resilient systems of support.

Side events highlighted innovation, with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) presenting its digitalization projects such as the Seafarers Identity Document (SID), Maritime Energy Demand Information and Analysis Software (MEDIAnS), and the MARINA Integrated Management Online System (MISMO). Meanwhile, global shipping leader Maersk delivered a session on “Psychological Safety for Seafarers,” stressing the importance of mental health, communication, and resilience on board.

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Day 2: Gender Equality and Just Transition

The second day of the conference shifted focus to inclusivity and industry transformation. In her video message, Elpi Petraki, President of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association International, urged greater promotion of maritime careers, particularly among young students, to inspire the next generation.

A morning session on “Promoting Gender Equality and Inclusivity in the Maritime Industry” was moderated by Ms. Luningning Camoying, Head of the Human Rights Section at the Philippine Mission to the UN in Geneva. Experts from the Norwegian Training Center, Ecuador, Canada, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) emphasized breaking barriers in the male-dominated sector, strengthening capacity-building, and ensuring safer, more inclusive workplaces at sea. A side event, “Training Women to Rise: Navigating the Future of the Maritime Industry,” showcased leadership and technical training programs designed for female cadets, with mentorship initiatives to expand opportunities worldwide.

In the afternoon, the panel “Seafarers and the Just Transition in the Maritime Industry” gathered speakers from the Philippines, India, Denmark, Singapore, Bangladesh, and the UN Global Compact. Discussions explored the impacts of decarbonization, automation, and digitalization on global shipping, underscoring the importance of equipping seafarers with new skills and ensuring no worker is left behind during the industry’s shift toward sustainability.

The Manila Declaration: A Global Compass for Action

The culmination of the two-day event was the unveiling of the Manila Declaration, formally launched by Ambassador Carlos Sorreta. The declaration serves as a roadmap for governments, industry, and international partners, outlining concrete commitments to enforce global conventions, safeguard human rights at sea, and ensure a fair transition for maritime workers in the face of evolving global challenges.

Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, in her synthesis, emphasized that the conference affirmed one unifying principle: seafarers are not just workers, but rights-holders whose dignity must always be protected.

In his closing remarks, Philippine Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr., underscored that seafarers’ rights must extend beyond recognition on paper and be realized through concrete action.

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A Call for Endorsements

Delegations and organizations were invited to endorse the Manila Declaration through written commitments, official notes, and public statements. Organizers highlighted that endorsements would continue beyond the conference, ensuring sustained momentum for implementation.

With the