Aquino urged to get involved in PAL labor dispute

November 03, 2010 14:28:00
Lira Dalangin-Fernandez lira.fernandez@inquirer.net
INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines – Several lawmakers on Wednesday renewed their appeal to President Benigno Aquino III to get involved in the labor dispute at the Philippine Airlines that is threatening to displace some 2,600 employees.

This developed as the labor committee at the House of Representatives announced the holding of its first hearing on the PAL case on November 10 at 1:30 p.m.

Northern Samar Representative Emil Ong, chairman of the committee, said the seven pending bills and resolutions involving the labor dispute in the country’s flag carrier would be a priority, but acknowledged that Congress could not stop the implementation of an order by the Department of Labor and Employment allowing PAL to lay off the 2,600 regular workers as a result of the spin-off of some of its services.

“I am certain PNoy [Aquino] understands the gravity of this PAL row. This appeal only serves as an urge to his Excellency to intervene and exhaust all means provided by the law to act and protect the PAL workers’ labor rights and job security. After all, these affected workers are also his boss,” San Juan City Representative Joseph Victor Ejercito said.

Ejercito, one of the vice chairpersons of the committee, expressed disappointment over the decision of Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, saying this may cause a stain on the President’s commitment to lead the people on the right path.

“If the laying off of workers be made final and executory, this may hugely affect the way people will perceive PNoy’s administration as the decision is purely anti-labor, anti-worker and most of all, anti-Filipino,” he said.

Ejercito and Gabriela partylist Representative Emmi de Jesus said the President should not be afraid to confront business tycoon Lucio Tan, PAL’s owner, with his decisions on the workers’ fate.

“It is imperative that we put a stop to Lucio Tan’s economic sabotage by firing out industrious yet underpaid PAL workers and consistently evading tax obligations since the time of Ramos. It’s high time for PNoy to confront and remove the horns of abusive and exploitative big businessmen such as Lucio Tan,” he said.

De Jesus, a member of the committee on labor, called on the employees of the airlines to work together and protect their ranks.