Nautilus Federation affiliate opens upgraded seafarers' lodgings in Manila

New subsidised accommodation for seafarers in between ship duties has been opened in Manila by Nautilus Federation affiliate the Singapore Organisation of Seamen (SOS).

The Seacare Sailors' Home (SSH) opened in June 2023 for Filipino seafarer members and occupies the 6th floor of Kaizen Suites – a new boutique hotel in the Malate district of Manila. It provides 30 beds across 14 rooms, all of which are equipped with new furnishings and personal lockers for secure storage. The SSH also features a dedicated recreation area for members to unwind, and is located beside the SOS's local office (LSA Consultancy and Management Services Inc) for convenient access.

This initiative aims to address Filipino members' accommodation challenge between their signing-on and signing-off duties in Manila, as many live in provinces outside the capital. The set-up also helps with the processing of essential tasks, such as employment documentation, medical check-ups and interviews.

Members employed by shipping companies with an SOS Collective Bargaining Agreement and participating in the Seacare Sailors' Home Scheme can enjoy a stay of up to 3 nights per month at the SSH.

The new SSH replaces a former one in Mandaluyong district, and aims to strengthen the affiliate union's ongoing efforts to improve members' welfare and benefits.

The inauguration of the SSH was attended by invited guests including the International Transport Workers' Federation general secretary Stephen Cotton, who praised SOS for the initiative and its unwavering commitment to supporting seafarers.