13 March 2012 - The Department of Foreign Affairs reminds all Filipino seafarers, particularly those involved in navigation and ship management, to strictly follow the shipping industry's Best Management Practices against Somalia-based Piracy (BMP4).

Reports have shown that adherence to BMP4 greatly reduces the risk or the success of pirate attacks in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and other high-risk areas.

All Filipino seafarers are therefore advised to follow all safety precautions indicated in BMP4 when passing through the said areas. These include the submission of a Vessel Movement Registration Form with the Maritime Security Center, the filing of a report with the Dubai-based UK Maritime Trade Office, and the implementation of adequate ship protection measures among others.END