By: Lara San Juan
“Alagang AMOSUP” is a radio segment on Radyo Pilipinas World Service that serves as an educational platform for AMOSUP members and their dependents. A recent episode featured the AMOSUP Welfare and Mutual Benefit Plan (WMBP), one of the union programs of AMOSUP that provides financial assistance and support to seafarers and their families. Guest speakers Ms. Maureen Sadicon and Mr. Joaquie Alde, dedicated union staff from AMOSUP WMBP, shared valuable information on the program and how seafarers can maximize its benefits.
According to Mr. Alde, WMBP is included in a provision in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), agreed upon by principals or shipowners and AMOSUP, to provide excellent service for its members and their dependents. A key advantage of the WMBP is that seafarers do not contribute to the fund. “Para sa kaalaman po ng ating mga miyembro, ang naghuhulog ng WMBP ay ang principal. Ito ay hindi nanggagaling sa kanilang sweldo,” Ms. Sadicon explained. (For our members’ awareness, WMBP contributions are made by the principal, not deducted from their salaries.)
The WMBP program offers financial assistance in various circumstances, particularly to seafarers and their families during times of loss. Mr. Alde emphasized, “Ang programa ng WMBP ay nakaalalay sa mga miyembro nito at sa kanilang mga dependents, lalo na kung ang miyembro ay namatay on board.” (“The WMBP program provides support to its members and their dependents, especially in the event of a member’s passing while on board.”)
Seafarers’ families may receive death compensation, ranging from ₱250,000, ₱210,000, or ₱170,000, depending on the CBA provision. Additionally, AMOSUP offers funeral service and airport assistance to ensure a dignified return of seafarers. Ms. Sadicon shared that they personally assist in transporting the remains from the airport to the funeral parlor.
Another benefit from WMBP is the Old Age Financial Assistance, “Ito ang sikat na sikat na sa ating mga members, sila ay makakatanggap ng financial assistance na nakasaad sa kanilang CBA provision.” (This is very popular among our members, they will receive financial assistance as stated in their CBA provision.) Ms. Sadicon further explained that this is available to members who have served at least five years with AMOSUP and are 55 years old and above.
The host further highlighted the importance of dependents being well-informed about these benefits, emphasizing that awareness is key to ensuring that families can access the support they are entitled to. By understanding these provisions, dependents can surely claim the assistance meant for them, even in the absence of the seafarer.
One inspiring story highlighted the power of sharing valuable information and the positive impact of AMOSUP’s service: a seafarer’s wife, after 20 years, learned from another seafarer’s wife about the death benefit available through AMOSUP. She could hardly believe that such a benefit was available from AMOSUP. After processing the application, she was overwhelmed with gratitude when she realized the benefit her late husband’s service she was entitled to.
“Yan po ang kagandahan kay AMOSUP! Hindi po fina-forfeit ni kung gaano man katagal na hindi ito na-apply. Basta benepisyo ni member, ibibigay natin,” Ms. Sadicon added. (This is what’s good with AMOSUP! We don’t forfeit benefits, no matter how long it has been, as long as it’s a member’s benefit, we will provide it.”)
Seafarers and their dependents can apply at AMOSUP offices in Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao, or they can apply via email. We encourage members, especially those in the provinces, to use the email option for added convenience.
In preparing the requirements, it is important to take note of these essential documents such as the seaman’s book, sea service record, death certificate (if applicable), marriage certificate, and CENOMAR to verify legal beneficiaries. Mr. Alde also reminded the members to update their 201 file to AMOSUP Records department to avoid issues when claiming benefits.
In conclusion, AMOSUP WMBP is more than just financial support, it is a commitment to prioritizing the welfare of seafarers and their families, providing the security and peace of mind they deserve during times of need.
For more information, members can contact AMOSUP through wmbp@amosup.org or visit AMOSUP branches in Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao. You can also watch the full interview on the AMOSUP Official YouTube Channel by searching for the “Alagang AMOSUP” playlist – Episode 19 | AMOSUP WMBP BENEFITS, ALAMIN!