The House of Representatives and the Senate have ratified the report of the bicameral conference committee on the derogatory provisions of the proposed Magna Carta of the Philippine Seafarers Act.
IMEC counts on approval of Magna Carta for Seafarers to address problem of 'ambulance chasing' in maritime sector
Kabayan Party Rep. Ron Salo, who oversaw the approval of the measure, said the proposal will put an end to the practice of chasing ambulances in the maritime sector.
“This groundbreaking legislation reaffirms the Philippine government’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers, particularly by addressing the issue of ambulance chases. The era of ambulance chases that has long plagued the Philippine maritime industry and tarnished the country’s image abroad is now coming to an end,” Salo said.
Ambulance chasing is the practice of sweet-talking seafarers into backing out of their efforts to file exorbitant claims against their former employers, seeking compensation for alleged injuries or illnesses sustained on the job. The awards from lower courts are split among the group, leaving the seafarer with a gratuity. However, in cases where the decision is overturned by higher courts, the seafarer is left on his own to repay the wrongful award.
