PTC reaffirms its steadfast commitment to seafarer welfare and maritime industry advancement, as PTC CEO Gerardo A. Borromeo—also a Board Member of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS)—actively participated in the Fifth Meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee (STC) of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to review and amend the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006.

Held from April 7 to 11, 2025, at the ILO headquarters in Geneva, the meeting brought together governments, shipowners, and seafarers’ unions to adopt crucial updates to the MLC that reflect the evolving needs of today’s maritime workforce. The ICS, working alongside the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and ILO Member States, welcomed a series of significant amendments aimed at further protecting the rights and welfare of seafarers around the world.

Among the key updates agreed upon were the formal designation of seafarers as key workers, stronger protections to support seafarer repatriation, mandatory provisions to ensure access to shore leave without requiring visas or special permits, and enhanced safeguards against bullying and harassment on board. These changes mark a major step forward in creating safer, more humane, and more dignified working conditions at sea.

“This has been a successful and historic week of discussions,” said Helio Vicente, ICS Director of Employment Affairs. “Working alongside national governments and transport workers’ unions, we have adopted potentially transformational changes for seafarers and the industry.”

The session also introduced a recommendation to include the ICS International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers aboard ships, building on the existing requirement for vessels to carry a medical guide. Developed with the support of ITF and the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA), the guide aims to enhance onboard health standards and emergency response.

Tim Springett, Chair of the ICS Labour Affairs Committee and Shipowners’ Spokesperson at the ILO meeting, praised the collaborative spirit of the event: “The accomplishments of the STC prove that—whatever the issue facing our industry—when we come together, we can work it out.”

Corinne Vargha, Director of the ILO’s International Labour Standards Department, underscored the global significance of the week’s achievements: “The outstanding work accomplished this week…will make a positive difference in the daily life of seafarers and shipowners.”

Also agreed upon was a resolution to establish a framework for future collaboration between the ILO and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), particularly on the alignment of regulations concerning hours of work and rest—a crucial area for ensuring seafarer well-being and safety.

As a global leader in maritime human capital development, PTC is proud to have contributed to this critical dialogue through the leadership of CEO Gerardo Borromeo. These developments are not only a win for seafarers but also reinforce the values of unity, collaboration, and responsibility that underpin the global shipping industry.