MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine maritime industry gathered at Okada Manila on May 12 for the 2026 CSAM Forum, where shipping leaders, manning agencies, government officials, and international partners launched a campaign against child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and online exploitation in the maritime sector.

Organized by ALMA Maritime Group, the forum focused on digital compliance and seafarer welfare, highlighting the growing concern over online offenses that could affect Filipino seafarers working abroad.

The event opened with a welcome message from ALMA President Capt. Antonio Ladera III, followed by a keynote address from a representative of the U.S. Embassy discussing international cooperation against CSAM.

Ricardo Karakadze, AVP for Maritime Security of Carnival Corporation, presented industry policies and best practices on safeguarding guests and crew members. Messages of support were also delivered by Ms. Katherine Avelino, SVP Cruise Administration of Transmarine Carriers, Inc.; Mr. Arnold Javier, President of Magsaysay Maritime Corporation; Atty. Jose Adolfo Cruz, President of UPL; and Atty. Carmela Magpantay, Legal Counsel and Director of CF Sharp.

The forum also featured a presentation from Open Sea Crewing Agency, Inc., led by Igmedio Cariaga Jr., Carnival TM Center Director for Asia Pacific, discussing processes in manning agencies and pre-deployment orientation seminars related to CSAM awareness and prevention.

Richard Brearley, VP II for Crew and Travel Operations of Carnival Cruise Line, shared the importance of educating and briefing joiners before deployment. MARINA Deputy Administrator for Operations Rear Admiral Loumer Palapal Bernabe also delivered a message supporting stronger coordination within the maritime sector.

A government response and framework discussion was later presented by Department of Migrant Workers Usec. Bernard Olalia, focusing on cooperation between agencies, shipowners, and manning companies to improve digital compliance and seafarer protection.

Earlier, ALMA released Memorandum Circular No. 2026-002 requiring member agencies under the Manning Agency Accreditation Program to conduct stricter screening and mandatory awareness briefings for seafarers before deployment.

ALMA Chairwoman Atty. Iris Baguilat stressed that one mistake involving illegal online content could destroy a seafarer’s career and affect the livelihood of their families. She emphasized the importance of awareness, discipline, and education in protecting the reputation of Filipino seafarers worldwide.

The forum concluded with a panel discussion, open forum, and closing remarks from Atty. Baguilat, where maritime leaders and stakeholders exchanged recommendations on improving compliance measures and strengthening seafarer protection programs across the industry.