The Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) has reaffirmed its demand that the entirety of Chapter 18, which contains provisions regarding maritime education and training, be removed from the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.  

PAMI's recent social media post emphasized that "The core of education lies in its ability to stay relevant to the industry it serves. Enforcing requirements through legislation can hinder flexibility and responsiveness to the dynamic needs of an ever-changing industry.

If enacted, this bill could make maritime education unaffordable for ordinary folks. If the cost of education increases significantly, it will be extremely difficult for them to pursue this path to a better life."

A press conference was convened by PAMI at the Aristocrat Restaurant in Malate, Manila, on January 12.

PAMI, an organization comprised of 73 member schools, is adamant that “the bill goes against Article VI. Section 26(1). This provision states unequivocally, ”Every bill passed by Congress shall embrace only one subject, which shall be expressed in the title thereof.

They stated, “Should this bill be passed into law, the Maritime Higher Education Institutions (MHEIs) surely face a death blow as this will result in a restricted supply of cadets and future seafarers to the shipping industry. This limited workforce could potentially diminish the Philippines' standing as a leading global provider of seafarers and impact negatively on our nation's overall economy.”