THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) last Jan. 15 met with a delegation from Greece, which was led by its ambassador, Ioannis Pediotis, in addressing issues related to employment, safety, and welfare of Filipino seafarers serving on Greek-owned vessels.
Among those represented in the delegation were 43 shipowners and representatives from the Mediterranean country.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reaffirmed the Philippine government’s “strong commitment” in protecting the rights and well-being of Filipino seafarers, who are central in the global maritime workforce.
“Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Greece, especially in ensuring compliance with international maritime safety standards and addressing issues affecting Filipino crew members,” the DMW said in a statement.
“The Secretary and other DMW officials actively responded to concerns raised by the Greek delegates, including regional conflicts affecting the maritime industry, economic support for Filipino seafarers, and digitalization, among others,” it added.
Cacdac was joined by DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia, Assistant Secretaries Jerome Pampolina, Julyn Ambito-Fermin, and Regina Galias, along with Directors Liza Alcera and Augusto San Diego III.
According to the DMW, the meeting was part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to the agency to strengthen ties with foreign partners, that includes Greece, where it is home to over 17,000 Filipinos.
The meeting was held at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City last Jan. 15.