Exploring the Factors that Make Filipino Seafarers Quit Their Sea Jobs

This study used the normative-descriptive method. A modified- standardized survey questionnaire was employed in this research. Majority of the Maritime Instructors as respondents of the study agree on the following factors as the causes which make the Filipino seafarers quit their sea jobs: hectic life; personal/ family problems; homesickness and seasickness within a few months; long distance relationships suffered; they hardly adjust to other crew onboard; they suffered fatigue onboard ship; inability to cope with the strenuous nature of life at sea; inhumane and unsupportive attitude from mentors at sea;; ill treatment of seafarers through unfair contracts; desertion by shipowners and salary arrears; insufficient shore leave; the lack of support from shore side staff can lead to frustrations for seafarers; the peculiar nature of working in the shipping industry; separation to work at sea creates disruption in the marital life; there have been many unlawful arrests of seafarers due to criminalizing unintentional marine pollution, the industry runs the risk of exposing seafarers to media criticism as well as discouraging disclosure of needed feedback regarding accidents in order to prevent their occurrence; unprecedented volume of regulations and conventions in the shipping industry; workplace safety issues onboard ships ; and the aging factor. But majority of the Maritime Instructors disagreed on the following factors: on-board politics; differences in the level of expectations between the younger and older generations in the seafaring industry; shipowners are reducing the size of crew onboard their ships due to shipboard technology; and that short-term job contracts reduce commitment. Maritime shipping companies must take care of their employees by improving employees’ job retention and career growth opportunities. Thus, the Maritime Instructors must be well-educated on the benefits, privileges and rights as a Maritime professional through relevant trainings and social awareness programs