Calls for enhanced cooperation with CHR to protect trade unionists
The 200,000 strong Federation of Free Workers (FFW) labor center lauded a momentous partnership between the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in the Philippines.
Both the CHR and DoLE receently signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) to foster collaboration for the promotion and protection of workers’ rights.
The MoA was based on the recommendation to enhance coordination among relevant government agencies on the promotion and protection of labor rights, which was raised during last January’s high-level tripartite meeting organized by the International Labor Organization (ILO).
The agreement further seeks to improve the conduct of investigations, referral of cases, provision of free legal advice, training and promotional activities, and policy development, particularly on the rights of workers, between the two agencies.
SIGNIFICANT LEAP
“This historic collaboration signifies a significant leap forward in reinforcing the fundamental principle of freedom of association in our nation,” the FFW said in a statement. “In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was crafted, and Article 20 therein established the significance of freedom of association, with Carlos P. Romulo’s instrumental role in shaping this foundational document remembered with reverence.”
Atty. Allan Montaño, FFW President Emeritus and International Secretary, added: “Our commitment to the principles of freedom of association runs deep in the annals of Philippine history. Long before the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Labor Organization’s Convention 87 in 1948, the Philippines recognized the importance of this fundamental right. The legacy of Apolinario Mabini, as reflected in the 1899 Malolos Constitution, proclaimed the right of Filipinos to form associations aimed at uplifting the lives of our people.”
He likewise mentioned that the tireless efforts of Filipino heroes—Isabelo de los Reyes, Fr. Gregorio Aglipay of the Union Obrero Democratica, Pedro Abad Santos, Crisanto Evangelista, Cipriano Cid, Felixberto Olalia, Johnny Tan, Fr. Walter Hogan, SJ., and Democrito Mendoza, Rolando Olalia, and Crispin Beltran, among others—spanned the decades from the 1900s to the 21st century.
The 1934 Constitutional Convention, led by Claro M. Recto and Jose P. Laurel, resounded with the profound declaration that “the right of the people to organize associations and societies for purposes not contrary to law shall not be abridged,” continued Montaño.
This unwavering commitment to the freedom of association has been carried through the pages of our history, as it remained steadfast in our 1935 and 1973 Constitutions and continues to be enshrined in our present 1987 Constitution. It stands as a testament to our deep-rooted belief in this fundamental human right, he further said.
ENSURING FULL COMPLIANCE
“In practice, we acknowledge that there is work yet to be done to ensure full compliance with our Constitution and international commitments, including ILO Conventions 87 and 98. We recognize that the government alone cannot undertake this journey. We need to mainstream organized labor by organizing more workers — not threatening or killing them when they organize unions for collective bargaining. The cooperation and active participation of all social partners are not just necessary but imperative,” he added.
In this context, FFW remembers the years 2009 and 2023 when the Philippines accepted High-Level Missions to investigate violations of ILO Conventions 87 and 98. These missions were welcomed by social partners and stakeholders, symbolizing a shared commitment to the principles of freedom of association and collective bargaining. Comprehensive technical cooperation programs were adopted to deepen our understanding and respect for these fundamental rights.
Montaño also stated, “We encourage the CHR to help the DOLE and the tripartite partners in implementing the recommendations made by the ILO High-Level Tripartite Mission to the Philippines in 2023. This mission emphasized the urgent need to fully implement ILO Convention 87 on Freedom of Association to safeguard the lives and well-being of trade unionists.”
CREATION OF FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION BODY
Montano further emphasized, “We persistently advocate for the creation of a presidentially mandated body dedicated to promoting Freedom of Association. This body should be tripartite, ensuring the inclusion of all relevant stakeholders and not limited to government representatives alone.”
The FFW lawyer continued, “We also call for the establishment of a truth commission comprised of distinguished individuals committed to justice. Such a commission would play a crucial role in holding state perpetrators accountable for acts of violence against workers. The CHR’s involvement in providing compensation to worker victims of injustices and their families, especially in cases where justice has been delayed due to a lack of witnesses, is paramount.”
