The Philippines made it as the 30th country to ratify the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 last 20 August 2012. The Philippines along with 29 countries are the “First 30 ILO countries” to demonstrate commitment to ensuring decent work for seafarers and level playing field for quality shipowners.

The MLC, 2006 will come into force 12 months after the registered ratifications of at least 30 Member States with a total share of at least 33 percent of the world tonnage of ships. The gross tonnage element was achieved in 2009. The ratification by the Philippines will enable the Convention to come into effect as binding international law on 20 August 2012.

(Courtesy of FAME)