The Philippines is now the first country to be officially ‘whitelisted’ under the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) revised Seafarers’ Identity Documents (SID) Convention, 2003 (ILO Convention No. 185) which permits the movement of seafarers all over the world.
In a statement, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) on Wednesday said the achievement marks the Philippine government’s willingness to comply with its obligations under the ILO.
“The Philippines’ SID is now being considered as a template for other ILO member states to follow,” the MARINA said.
The ILO Convention No. 185, it said, facilitates the movement of seafarers—particularly for their shore leave in various international ports—their repatriation to their home country after the conclusion of their work contracts, and when boarding ships in other countries.
According to the ILO Director-General’s report dated November 17, Article 5 of the ILO Convention No. 185 establishes the minimum requirements on the processes and procedures of ratifying members for the issuance of SIDs.
Under paragraph 6 and 7 of Article 5 of the ILO Convention No. 185, it said the governing body of the ILO will approve a list containing the names of member-states which fully meet the minimum requirements for the issuance of SIDs and will be made available to all members of the ILO.
It said the Philippines was the first country to formally request inclusion on the list, has since “fully satisfied” its requirements, and will serve as a “template” for other ratifying member states. (PNA)
