Increase in POEA Seafarers' Compensation

Minimum compensation and benefits from the prior 1989 Standard Employment Contract had become insufficient under prevailing international standards.
Benefits offered to unionized seafarers through collective bargaining agreements were more favorable.
A Tripartite Technical Working Group recommended upgrading compensation and benefits to align with international norms.
The amendment addresses the urgent need to improve benefits for Filipino seafarers and their families.

In case of death during the contract term, the employer must pay beneficiaries an amount equivalent to US$50,000 in Philippine currency at the rate current at payment.
An additional US$7,000 per child under 21 years old, up to a maximum of four children, is payable.
If the death arises from warlike activities within declared war zones, the compensation is doubled.
The employer is mandated to secure appropriate warzone insurance coverage to cover such liabilities.

Employers must reimburse the seafarer for the full amount of loss or damage to personal effects.
Total loss compensation shall not exceed the Philippine Peso equivalent of US$2,000.
Applies to loss or damage caused by wreck, loss, stranding, abandonment of the vessel, fire, flooding, or collision.
For partial loss, reimbursement is subject to mutual agreement but cannot exceed US$2,000 equivalence.

Maximum compensation rate as per Appendix I-A is adjusted to US$50,000 for all seafarers regardless of rank or position.

The new compensation and benefits apply to all Filipino seafarers aboard any vessel.
Coverage applies only to causes of action arising after the Resolution's effectivity.

The Resolution shall take effect sixty (60) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

The Resolution was signed by the Secretary of Labor and Employment, Chairman of the Board, and the POEA Administrator/Member.