In Cebu, thousands join synchronized candle lighting for PALEA

Press Release
October 21, 2011
PALEA / KANAMASU

Emboldened by the unanimously passed resolution supporting PALEA by the NAPC (National Anti-Poverty Commission) in its recently concluded Sectoral Assembly, PALEA and its supporters organized synchronized action in five cities to show support and sympathy to the cause of PALEA.

The synchronized action was joined by thousands of supporters who lighted candles from 5:30pm to 6pm today as a symbolic gesture to enlighten society on the dark times setting on the welfare of all workers with the imminent threat of contractualization of all regular jobs.

Renante Pelino, an employee from Mactan Export Zone (MEZ) participated today’s candle lighting. “I am fed up of being a contractual worker for 8 years with cheap wages, no benefits and without protection from abuses. I identify myself with PALEA. This (contractualization) must end now for  the future not just of my children but of this nation,” Pelino said.

Broad labor coalition KANAMASU or Kahugpungan sa Nagkahiusang Mamumuo sa Sugbo, the organizer of the said synchronized action have set-up candle lighting center in 5 cities located at the following areas:

·         Lapu – Lapu City --Tamiya Mepz II
·         Infront of GMC – Pajo
·         PALEA Protest Camp, near MCIA Checkpoint
·         Mandaue City - Maguikay Fly over
·         Hiway Seno – Jollibee
·         Cebu City – In front of Sto. Rosario Church  P. Del Rosario St.
·         Gaisano Metro Colon
·         Pier 1 – ALU TUCP
·         Talisay City – Tabunok Fly over
·         Toledo City – Gaisano

Residents of urban poor communities in 5 cities likewise heeded the call for PALEA’s solidarity by lighting candles in front of their houses. Showcase of this is the whole barangay of San Roque in Cebu City wherein their own Barangay Captain will spearhead the candle lighting.

PALEA Board member Tex Bulambot said that “The outpouring of solidarity and sympathy for our fight represents the 99% of the Filipino people. They had spoken loud and clear against contractualization and outsourcing in PAL, PNOY should heed for the 99%, his real boss, instead of the 1% represented by Mr. Lucio Tan.”