PSAP-PAROLA.ORG | Philippine Seafarers Assistance Programme

ELISEO LUCERO-PRISNO III, MD, MPH
Royal Tropical Institute 

Seafaring is the most risky profession in the world, second to commercial fishermen. Half-a-million Filipino seafarers constantly face an uncertain health scenario, with life-and-limb always at stake. 

The problem is aggravated by several factors that undermine their health at the various phases of the work cycle. Prior to their work onboard, there is a seeming lack of preparation on how they are able to deal with health-threatening realities. Their maritime education does not emphasize health issues. 

Lack of knowledge/awareness generally makes Filipinos unprepared to meet psychological stresses (loneliness and fatigue) and other health problems such as STDs and HIV and infectious diseases (SARS, influenza, malaria). As diseases, accidents and mortality at sea rise in the international shipping sector, the Filipino seafarers, including the Philippine government and other maritime players such as manning agencies, ships owners and unions, remain in quandary about meaningful solutions to health hazards and problems. Of course, the undermining of the health situation of seafarers impacts on international and national economies, not to mention the welfare and survival of households. 

Despite various international conventions (STCW, Medical Examination, Prevention of Accidents, Health Protection and Medical Care, etc) promulgated by the ILO, WHO and IMO, Philippine government’s response may be considered weak vis-à-vis the health status of this vulnerable work group. 

The virtual a dearth of information, the absence of significant health research, and the weakness of policy combine to raise the challenge of a long-term welfare response for seafarers, specially when ailments and deaths set in. Other factors that confirm this challenge are the lack of relevant support systems for seafarers’ families, no strong health insurance system, and lack in resources /capacity in negotiating with foreign partners (insurance companies and ship owners). 

The paper delves into the above issues. It recommends the need to fully implement the international seafarers conventions and develop a comprehensive framework that will ensure the good health and wellbeing of the Filipino seafarers if they are to continue contributing to national development.