A SEAFARER’S group urged on Saturday an official of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to inhibit himself from drafting the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (MCFS).
In a letter addressed to DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the Concerned Seafarers of the Philippines (CSP) called on Atty. Jerome Pampolina, assistant secretary for Sea-based OFW Concerns at the DMW, to inhibit himself from drafting the IRR of the MCFS for conflict of interest.
Citing Pampolina’s past association with the Del Rosario Law Office, a leading firm that represents manning agencies and foreign principals, the CSP raised concerns that this affiliation could compromise the fairness of the IRR process.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac
“We humbly submit that it is our perception that Atty. Pampolina suffers from a conflict of interest as the IRR that he is drafting appears to us to be too favorable to the local manning agencies and their foreign principals,” CSP’s statement states.
“We firmly believe that Atty. Pampolina’s involvement poses a serious conflict of interest that must be addressed to ensure that the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers are not compromised,” CSP chairman Engr. Jose Xavier Bayoneta said.
“We urge him to step back from this role and allow for a transparent and equitable drafting process,” he added.
CSP is also advocating for an additional round of consultations to ensure the concerns and needs of seafarers are fully represented.
The letter detailing this request will be furnished to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Office of the Ombudsman, and other relevant government agencies.
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