AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF THE MAGNA CARTA
OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS IMPACT TO THE
PMMS MARITIME STUDENTS
A THESIS
Presented to
The Faculty of the Languages Department
PHILIPPINE MERCHANT MARINE SCHOOL, LAS PIÑAS
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Course
RES (Research and Report Writing)
For the Second Semester, School Year 2024-2025
By
AGELLON, Rhendel B.
ALCANTARA, John Neal F.
BARBOSA, Gwyneth Eliora C.
DIZON, Jemmel B.
IGNACIO, Joseph Nathaniel F.
LIWANAG, Melvin N.
MAGMANLAC, Jericho R.
SABADO, Rhoben I.
SOL, Joshua Kail A.
MARCH 2025
APPROVAL SHEET
This research entitled:
AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF THE MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS IMPACT TO THE PMMS MARITIME STUDENTS
AGELLON, Rhendel B. LIWANAG, Melvin N.
ALCANTARA, John Neal F. MAGMANLAC, Jericho R.
BARBOSA, Gwyneth Eliora C. SABADO, Rhoben I.
DIZON, Jemel B. SOL, Joshua Kail A.
IGNACIO, Joseph Nathaniel F.
has been examined and is recommended for acceptance and approval for ORAL EXAMINATION
DR. RAFAEL D. CURIMAO
Adviser
Approved by the committee on Oral Examination with a GRADE OF ______________ %
MRS. VICTORIA F. RAMIREZ MR. ANGELITO P. KILALA
Panel Member Panel Member
Accepted as partial fulfillment of the course requirements in Research (Report Writing) for Second Semester, SY 2024-2025
Date: _______________
TEODORO T. TIU, LLB, MA.Ed. MAGDALENA T. CORRE, Ed.D.
Head, Languages Department VP for Academic Affairs
DEDICATION
This research is dedicated to all maritime students of the Philippine Merchant Marine School (PMMS) who aspire to become competent and responsible seafarers. Your dedication to the maritime industry inspires the pursuit of knowledge and awareness of the laws that safeguard your rights and welfare. To our mentors and educators, who tirelessly guide us in understanding the significance of the Magna Carta of the Filipino Seafarers (R.A. 12021), your wisdom and support have been instrumental in shaping our academic and professional growth.
To our families, whose unwavering encouragement and sacrifices for our journey, this study stands as a testament to our commitment to making a meaningful impact in the maritime sector. Lastly, to all Filipino seafarers who conquers the sea to sustain for their families and contribute to the nation's economy, may this research serve as a step toward greater awareness and advocacy for our rights, protection, and well-being.
THE RESEARCHERS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Above all, we express our deepest gratitude to God Almighty, the giver of life, knowledge, and wisdom, for granting us the strength, perseverance, and guidance to complete this thesis. This accomplishment would not have been possible without His divine grace.
Our sincerest thanks go to all the respondents of N-J2C2 who participated in this study. Your time, cooperation, and honest responses were invaluable in making this research a success.
Specifically, we want to acknowledge: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our research adviser, Dr. Rafael D. Curimao, for his exceptional guidance, unwavering support, and constructive criticism throughout this research. Your expertise and patience were instrumental in shaping this thesis.
We are deeply indebted to Engr. Clarence L. Rafael for his invaluable assistance in the statistical analysis of the data. Your expertise ensured the accuracy and reliability of the results.
We also wish to express our sincere appreciation to the esteemed panel of panelists, Mrs. Victoria F. Ramirez and Mr. Angelito P. Kilala, for their insightful comments, constructive feedback, and valuable suggestions that significantly improved the quality of this thesis. Your time and expertise are greatly appreciated. Finally, to our beloved family and friends, thank you for your unwavering support, encouragement, and understanding. Your love and belief in us provided the strength and motivation we needed to overcome challenges and complete this work.
ABSTRACT
This study focused on the Awareness and Perception of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers: Impact to the PMMS Maritime Students. The researchers aimed to; (1) know the profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, and academic level of the respondents. (2) The level of awareness and understanding on the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. (3) The perception of the respondents on the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. (4) The extent of the respondents assess the impact of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on maritime students. (5) If there is a significant relationship between respondents' awareness and understanding of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers and their assessment of the impact on maritime students. (6) If there is a significant relationship between respondents' perceptions of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers and their assessment of the impact on maritime students.
This research made use of descriptive-correlational research design. The researchers used a close-ended survey questionnaire in gathering data. The data was tabulated, analyzed, and interpreted within the framework of the study's scope and problems using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. The respondents were 40 selected BSMT students who are officially enrolled at Philippine Merchant Marine School Las Piñas.
The findings show that respondents are largely familiar with the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers and hold a favorable view of it, acknowledging its significance in upholding seafarers' rights and enhancing their working conditions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page i
Dedication ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
Table of Contents v
List of Figure and Tables vi
CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction 1
Background of the Study 3
Statement of the Problem 4
Research Framework 5
Research Paradigm 6
Hypotheses 7
Scope and Limitation 8
Significance of the Study 8
Definition of Terms 10
CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDY 11
Review of Related Literature 11
Review of Related Study 15
CHAPTER 3 METHODS AND PROCEDURES 18
Research Design 18
Respondents of the Study 19
Sampling Technique 19
Research Instrument 19
Data Gathering Procedure 20
Statistical Treatment of Data 21
CHAPTER 4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 24
CHAPTER 5 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS 35
Bibliography 43
Appendices
A- Letter of request to conduct the study 44
B-Letter of request to conduct survey 45
C-Research instrument 46
D-Cronbach Alpha Values 49
Curriculum Vitae 51
List of Tables and Figures
TABLES TITLE PAGE
4.1.1 Age of Respondents 24
4.1.2 Respondent's Gender 24
4.2 Awareness and Understanding of the Respondents on the
Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers 26
4.3 Perception of the Respondents on the Magna Carta of
Filipino Seafarers 28
4.4 Data on the Impact of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers 31
4.5 Correlates of the Impact of the Magna Carta of Filipino
Seafarers on Maritime Students 33
FIGURE
1 Research Paradigm
CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction
One of the European legal documents to limit the authority of a reigning King John of England was the Magna Carta. The Latin name which translates to "great charter", alludes to the documents function in establishing. It also aligns their rights with international maritime standards such as the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and ensures that they are treated fairly in the event of maritime accidents or disputes with employers.
To establishing thorough standards for the education, training, and certification of seafarers in both domestic and international commerce is one of the goals of RA 12021, which creates the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. The legal document known as the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarer lays out, among other things, the rights and as their credentials, employment conditions, and educational and training needs In order to increase the protection of Filipino seafarers and address important issues including better working conditions, In order to increase the protection of Filipino seafarers and address important issues including better working conditions, the right to organize, equitable treatment in maritime accidents, and freedom from discrimination, the Magna Carta was drafted and signed into law in 2024. In Addition to guaranteeing that the Philippine maritime sector, a major supplier of maritime labor, meets international standards, it creates a thorough legal framework for improving the lives of the 600,000 Filipino seafarers employed in the domestic and international maritime industries.
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, became law in 2024 to strengthen the rights, welfare, and working conditions of Filipino seafarers. However, concerns have emerged regarding its impact on maritime education, with some arguing that the law prioritizes seafarers' welfare over the training and study of maritime students. The Philippine Merchant Marine School (PMMS) actively supports initiatives that uphold the provisions of the Magna Carta, particularly in enforcing Chapter XVIII, which addresses compliance among Filipino seafarers and PMMS aligns with the Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) in leading the "Black Monday" campaign, advocating for balanced policies that protect both seafarers and the development of future maritime professionals. This ongoing discussion highlights the need for a fair approach that ensures both the rights of active seafarers and the quality education of aspiring maritime professionals.
PMMS students, faculty, and administration participate in the "Black Monday" movement. In 2024, for instance, PMMS students showed support for the campaign by wearing black armbands on their left sleeves on Mondays. On March 11, 2024, they also took part in a protest on campus. The Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers was enacted into law in 2024. It was founded to protect Filipino sailors' rights and improve their working circumstances. Some contend that the measure puts the welfare of sailors ahead of maritime students' education and training.
Background of the Study
The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, limited King John's power and established legal principles like the rule of law, due process, and trade protections. While primarily a land-based document, it influenced maritime law by promoting fair treatment in commerce and justice. Its principles align with modern maritime standards, including the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), which ensures fair wages, contracts, and working conditions for seafarers. The charter's emphasis on justice and accountability shaped legal protections in international trade and shipping. It laid the foundation for legal precedents that safeguard workers' rights at sea. The Magna Carta's legacy continues to influence global maritime regulations today.
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (RA 12021), enacted in 2024, establishes legal protections and standards for Filipino seafarers' education, training, and employment. It ensures fair wages, better working conditions, the right to organize, and protection in maritime accidents and disputes. The law aligns with international standards like the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and the STCW to enhance seafarers' rights and competitiveness. It also promotes equal opportunities and safeguards against discrimination in the maritime industry. With over 600,000 Filipino seafarers working globally, RA 12021 strengthens their welfare and ensures the Philippines remains a top supplier of maritime labor. This comprehensive framework secures the livelihood and safety of Filipino seafarers in both domestic and international waters.
The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (RA 12021), enacted in 2024, strengthens seafarers' rights, welfare, and working conditions while aligning with international maritime standards. However, concerns have arisen that it prioritizes active seafarers over maritime students' education and training. Institutions like the Philippine Merchant Marine School (PMMS) and PAMI support the law but advocate for balanced policies through initiatives like the "Black Monday" campaign to protect both seafarers and future maritime professionals. This debate highlights the need for fair regulations that uphold quality education while safeguarding seafarers' rights. Ensuring both sectors benefit will be crucial for the Philippine maritime industry's long-term success. A well-balanced approach is essential to maintaining the country's global maritime competitiveness.
The "Black Monday" movement at the Philippine Merchant Marine School (PMMS) reflects concerns over the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers (RA 12021), enacted in 2024 to protect seafarers' rights and working conditions. PMMS students, faculty, and administration actively participate by wearing black armbands and staging protests, such as the March 11, 2024 campus demonstration. While the law benefits active seafarers, critics argue it prioritizes their welfare over maritime students' education and training. This debate highlights the need for balanced policies that support both future maritime professionals and seafarers. Ensuring fairness in education and labor rights is crucial for the Philippine maritime industry's sustainability.
Statement of the Problem
This study aims to determine the level of awareness and perception on the Magna Carta of Filipino seafarers and its impact to the PMMS maritime students.
Specifically, it seeks to investigate the following:
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
1.1 Age,
1.2 Gender, and
1.3 Academic level?
2. What is the level of awareness and understanding of the respondents on the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers among the respondents.
3. What is the perception of the respondents of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers?
4. To what extent do the respondents assess the impact of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on maritime students?
5. Is there a significant relationship between respondents' awareness and understanding of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers and their assessment of its impact on maritime students?
6. Is there a significant relationsh