Seafarers & manning
DMW-SEC
The current standard employment contract for Filipino seafarers.
What is DMW-SEC in shipping?
The DMW-SEC is the 2026 DMW Standard Employment Contract, Department Circular No. 07, Series of 2026, in force since 3 July 2026. It replaced the 2010 POEA Standard Employment Contract. It sets the minimum terms for Filipino seafarers on ocean-going ships — wages, hours, leave, allotment, and the schedule of disability and death compensation — and it is read together with any applicable IBF/ITF collective bargaining agreement. A reference to the POEA-SEC means that 2010 predecessor, not the current form. The two forms are not the same document.
Educational reference only — verify operational guidance with UKMTO, MSCHOA, your flag state, P&I club and legal counsel.
Related terms
- MLC 2006 — The 'seafarers' bill of rights' — minimum living and working standards at sea.
- Allotment — The portion of a seafarer's wage sent home automatically to family.
- Repatriation — The seafarer's right to be returned home at the employer's cost in defined circumstances.
- STCW — The international convention setting minimum training and certification for seafarers.