COLLABORATING FOR FILIPINO MIGRANT FISHERS: Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) President and House Deputy Speaker Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza engaged with key representatives at the Philippine Embassy in London, UK. Among those involved were Philippine Ambassador to the UK Teodoro “Teddy Boy” Lopez Locsin Jr., Deputy Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Consul Raphael Hermoso, Maritime Attaché Atty. Sharon Aledo, and Sheila Mae Aguilar from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The discussions also included insights from Associated Philippine Seafarers Union (APSU) National Vice President for Operation Atty. Generick Humprey Morales and TUCP Party-list Chief of Staff Archie Ranin.
ADDRESSING ISSUES OF EXPLOITATION IN THE FISHING SECTOR
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — Under the leadership of TUCP President Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza, significant discussions were held with Ambassador Teodoro “Teddy Boy” Lopez Locsin Jr., centered on tackling exploitation faced by Filipino fishers working on UK vessels. The agenda primarily revolved around enhancing work conditions, implementing comprehensive labor protections, and promoting an equitable visa system that safeguards tucp-urges-bilateral-labor-agreement-with-the-uk-to-protect-filipino-fishers-from-exploitation/” title=”TUCP Urges Bilateral Labor Agreement with the UK to Protect Filipino Fishers from Exploitation”>migrant london-for-high-stakes-talks/” title=”US Secretary of State Blinken Arrives in London for High-Stakes Talks”>workers‘ rights.
Mendoza emphasized that “Our compatriots are integral to the UK’s fishing industry; unfortunately, they often endure harsh treatment as overworked and underappreciated employees without access to core labor protections.”
THE PREVALENCE OF MIGRANT WORKERS IN THE UK FISHING INDUSTRY
A 2023 report from a leading financial publication noted that migrant workers constitute more than half of Britain’s workforce in fishing—accounting for over 5,500 individuals out of an estimated total workforce of 11,000—including a significant number from the Philippines. For years now, operators within this sector have taken advantage of transit visas meant for merchant seafarers to sidestep employment regulations that should protect these workers.
This loophole has allowed mistreatment towards Filipino fishers who face conditions akin to forced labor—subjected to continuous work hours with inadequate compensation while bearing recruitment debts—a clear violation under ILO Convention 188 standards,” Mendoza stated firmly.
TUCP advocates for a bilateral labor agreement between the Philippines and UK aimed at curbing worker exploitation.
PUSH FOR LABOR PROTECTION RATIFICATION
The TUCP has consistently advocated for ratification of ILO Convention No. 188 both domestically and internationally during past congresses; notably filing House Resolution No. 2059 urging President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., to act promptly in securing Senate approval without further delay.
POSITIVE CHANGES ON VISA REGULATIONS
The recent announcement by the UK Government allows migrant fishermen access as Skilled Workers through newly established visa protocols which formalize their status onboard fishing vessels while ensuring crucial benefits like improved wages and family reunification rights are offered.” However,” Mendoza reflected critically,“while this development marks progress toward equity in treatment it introduces hurdles such as unaffordable visa fees and challenging English language requirements which deter applicants.”
A CALL FOR CREATIVE SOLUTIONS AND BILATERAL EFFORTS
TUCP is actively lobbying for a dedicated bilateral agreement between both countries that would standardize contracts affecting all migrant fishermen irrespective of residency status while lowering eligibility thresholds making them accessible cost-wise—aiming ultimately at establishing ethical recruitment pathways across borders prevailing practices further harm vast numbers seeking fair opportunities abroad.
COPERATION AND CAMPAIGN FOR JUSTICE IN WORK CONDITIONS
Ambassador Locsin reaffirmed commitment alongside Migrant Workers Office officials pledging joint efforts with TUCP’s minds like APSU leading public initiatives striving toward acknowledgment elevating skilled classifications among Pinoy fishers affirming crucial roles they play within tourism sectors connecting overseas cutters directly back supporting myriad communities struggling today throughout remote lifelines served each day relentlessly pursued via challenging sea journeys undertaken daily combating undeniable odds stacked against them” said Locsin emphasizing shared partnerships towards dignity promoting fairness & ensuring justice permeates every level function carried forth diligently adhering principles guiding stewardship upliftment showcased urgency required reinforcing foundations built benefit mutual welfare deriving positive outcomes exhibited encapsulating entrepreneurial spirit rooted strongly nurturing resilience sparkling radiant amidst tides continue surge forward.”
