Section 8Sec./Art. 8

Right to Self-Organization and to Collective Bargaining. - Seafarers shall have the right to form, join, or assist in the formation of a labor organization of their own choosing for purposes of collective bargaining, to engage in concerted activities in accordance with law, and to participate in the deliberation of issues and formulation of policies that affect them, including the guarantee of representation in governing boards or appointment in government instrumentalities.

In the exercise of this right, the exemptions from taxes, duties, and other assessments provided in Article 251 of Presidential Decree No. 442, as amended, shall continue to be enjoyed by legitimate labor organizations of seafarers, without need to apply for or confirm such exemptions, which may be withdrawn only by a special law expressly repealing this provision.