The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has established a Maritime Labor Affairs Office (MLAO) as part of efforts to strengthen the protection of seafarers’ rights and welfare. The department announced the creation of the new office on September 7, 2026.

Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino signed Administrative Order No. 283, Series of 2026, establishing the MLAO as a dedicated office for maritime labor concerns. The move gives DOLE a more focused structure for addressing labor matters involving the maritime sector and Filipino seafarers.

The establishment of the office is expected to strengthen DOLE’s work on seafarers’ labor rights, working conditions, welfare, and compliance with applicable labor standards. It also provides a dedicated mechanism within the department for handling maritime labor policies and coordinating matters involving workers in the sector.

DOLE said the initiative is consistent with the government’s continuing efforts to protect workers and improve the welfare of Filipino seafarers. The creation of the MLAO comes as the Philippines continues to strengthen policies and institutions supporting its maritime workforce and the protection of seafarers serving both locally and internationally.