PHILIPPINE SHIPPING UPDATE

Safeguarding Filipino Seafarers: Immediate Steps for High-Risk Maritime Zones

This update reiterates previous guidance provided in response to ongoing threats in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The below are steps to be taken in compliance with the Department of Migrant Workers' (DMW) regulations in the passage of Filipino seafarers in war/high-risk areas.

Reroute Ships Immediately

Divert all vessels with Filipino crew away from ITF/IBF-designated warlike and high-risk areas, especially the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Review and strictly follow all DMW and Department Orders related to ship routing and crew safety. Non-compliance will result in penalties.

Honor Crew's Right to Refuse

Inform Filipino seafarers of their right to refuse assignments in dangerous zones.

If a crew member invokes this right, arrange for their safe and immediate repatriation.

This right may be invoked by the seafarer at anytime even if he had previously consented to sailing in the area.

Report Actions Promptly

Email the Sea-based Accreditation Bureau (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) with:

  *  Names of principals/employers which rerouted ships

  *  Names of Filipino seafarers who refused to sail

  *  Names of those who continued after being briefed on risks

Prohibit Deployment to Attacked Ships

Do not assign Filipino crew to any ship that:

  *  Was previously attacked

  *  Is currently or planning to enter high-risk zones

  *  Has been targeted by armed groups (e.g., Houthi rebels)

This applies regardless of when the incident occurred.

Prohibition on Passenger and Cruise Ships in High-Risk Zones

Do not allow Filipino seafarers to serve on passenger or cruise ships that will sail through the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden, regardless of circumstances.

This prohibition is absolute and applies to all passenger and cruise vessels in these designated high-risk areas.

Appoint a Crisis Management Officer (SWACO)

Designate a Seafarers' Welfare and Crisis Management Officer (SWACO) for  your agency.

SWACO responsibilities:

*  Coordinate with authorities during maritime crises

*  Monitor incidents and ensure prompt, accurate reporting

*  Lead safety and crisis-awareness training

It is reiterated that Immediate and strict compliance with the above is required. Violations may result in license suspension, cancellation, and other penalties by the DMW.

For full details, refer to the official advisory: [DMW Advisory No. 21

Series of 2025 - High risk/war risk area] 

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Promotion

Celebrating Career Progression within the Firm

We are delighted to announce the following well-deserved promotions within the Firm. These individuals have consistently demonstrated commitment, professionalism, and excellence in their respective roles, and we congratulate them on reaching new milestones in their careers.

Ralph Julious Villamor has been promoted to Managing Associate.

An alumnus of the University of Santo Tomas, Ralph was admitted to the Bar in 2014 and joined the Firm in the same year. His dedication and expertise have been instrumental in delivering high-quality legal services to our clients.

Jamella Anne Marie Joya has been promoted to Managing Associate.

Jamella graduated from San Beda University, was admitted to the Bar in 2012, and joined the Firm that same year. Her loyalty and commitment have greatly contributed to the Firm's continued success.

Krisha Czarina Rasing has been promoted to Claims Executive. Krisha joined Del Rosario Pandiphil, Inc. in 2013 as a Claims Assistant.

With this being her second promotion, she has played a vital role in upholding Pandiphil’s dedication to providing excellent service to its clients.

Luzviminda Ramiso has been promoted to Claims Executive.

Luzviminda joined Del Rosario Pandiphil, Inc. in 2015 as a Claims Assistant and has consistently shown outstanding performance and professionalism throughout her tenure.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ralph, Jam, Krisha, and Luz, and look forward to their continued growth and contribution to the Firm's success. 

Areas of Specialization:  Labour & personal injury, litigation and dispute resolution, corporate and commercial, shipping and admiralty, intellectual property, cargo claims and charter party, transport, insurance and reinsurance, arbitration and ADR, immigration.