Pakikiisa sa Trillion Peso March Movement Nationwide Rallies

Walang ginhawa sa patuloy na pagnanakaw sa bayan. Ito ang araw-araw na reyalidad na kinakaharap ng kabataan mula Luzon, Visayas, at Mindanao.

 

Ang Samahan ng Kabataang Lumalaban (SKL), kasama ang iba pang youth and people’s organizations sa Trillion Peso March Movement, ay muling lalabas sa lansangan upang ipahayag na sobra na, tama na ang sistematikong korapsyon na sumisira sa buhay at hanapbuhay ng mga Pilipino. Mula sa bilyon-bilyong insertions, ghost projects, confidential funds, hanggang sa kawalan ng hustisya, isang larawan ang malinaw: matagal nang ninanakaw ang pondo ng bayan at paulit-ulit na isinasakripisyo ang kinabukasan ng kabataan.

 

Mga Panawagan

 

Panagutin ang lahat ng opisyal na sangkot sa korapsyon. Hindi sapat ang pa-imbestigasyon at press release; kailangan ng malinaw na kaso, malinaw na proseso, at malinaw na pananagutan. Hindi dapat maging ligtas ang sinuman kanila Marcos, Duterte, o anumang pulitikal na dinastiya na nagnanakaw sa kaban ng bayan ay dapat managot sa taumbayan!

 

Panagutin si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at dapat niyang harapin ang mga alegasyon laban sa kanya at panagutan ang kabiguan niyang tugisin at ikulong ang mga tiwaling opisyal.

 

Litisin si Vice President Sara Duterte sa kanyang confidential funds at kapalpakan bilang DepEd Secretary na hindi nakapagtawid ng pampublikong serbisyo para sa mga mag-aaral at guro.

 

Panagutin si Zaldy Co, kasama ng iba lang mga tiwaling opisyal at nasa ahensya ng gobyerno na sangkot sa katiwalian. Bilang arkitekto ng mga insertions, may obligasyon siyang bumalik, magtestigo, at papanagutin ang sarili.

 

Ipasa ang Anti-Political Dynasty Bill! Wakasan ang sistema ng pulitika na iilan lang na pamilya at nakikinabang at sumisira sa pamahalaan ng bayan.

 

Isabatas ang transparency at accountability measures. Isapubliko at gawing tunay na independent ang Independent Commission on Infrastructure upang kilatisin at panagutin ang mga sangkot sa sistema ng korapsyon sa bansa. Walang tiwala sa mga sikretong maniobra.

 

Sa lahat ng isyu na ito, hinihikayat namin ang bawat Pilipino, lalo ang kabataan, na manindigan at makiisa. Ngayong November 30, tayo'y magkapit-bisig mula sa iba't ibang sulok ng bansa para ipanawagan ang katarungan para sa mga sinalanta ng bagyo at katiwalian, at tayo na ninakawan ng kinabukasan.

 

Sa Metro Manila, magsasagawa ang kabataan ng martsa mula Temple Drive, Quezon City nang 7:30 AM, patungong EDSA People Power Monument, bilang bahagi ng Trillion Peso March. Ginagawa rin ito kasabay ng higit 100 aktibidad sa labas ng Metro Manila, na pinangungunahan ng mga komunidad na direktang tinatamaan ng bagyo, pagbaha, at korapsyon sa flood control.

 

Ang buwis ng mamamayan ay para sa mamamayan at hindi para sa bulsa ng iilan. Palitang ang bulok na sistema ng pulitika para sa interes ng Panahon na para palakasin ang serbisyo publiko at tunay na magbigay ng ginhawa sa buhay ng Pilipino. ###

  

Walang ginhawa sa patuloy na pagnanakaw sa bayan. Ito ang araw-araw na reyalidad na kinakaharap ng kabataan mula Luzon, Visayas, at Mindanao.

 

Ang Samahan ng Kabataang Lumalaban (SKL), kasama ang iba pang youth and people’s organizations sa Trillion Peso March Movement, ay muling lalabas sa lansangan upang ipahayag na sobra na, tama na ang sistematikong korapsyon na sumisira sa buhay at hanapbuhay ng mga Pilipino. Mula sa bilyon-bilyong insertions, ghost projects, confidential funds, hanggang sa kawalan ng hustisya, isang larawan ang malinaw: matagal nang ninanakaw ang pondo ng bayan at paulit-ulit na isinasakripisyo ang kinabukasan ng kabataan.

 

Mga Panawagan

 

Panagutin ang lahat ng opisyal na sangkot sa korapsyon. Hindi sapat ang pa-imbestigasyon at press release; kailangan ng malinaw na kaso, malinaw na proseso, at malinaw na pananagutan. Hindi dapat maging ligtas ang sinuman kanila Marcos, Duterte, o anumang pulitikal na dinastiya na nagnanakaw sa kaban ng bayan ay dapat managot sa taumbayan!

 

Panagutin si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at dapat niyang harapin ang mga alegasyon laban sa kanya at panagutan ang kabiguan niyang tugisin at ikulong ang mga tiwaling opisyal.

 

Litisin si Vice President Sara Duterte sa kanyang confidential funds at kapalpakan bilang DepEd Secretary na hindi nakapagtawid ng pampublikong serbisyo para sa mga mag-aaral at guro.

 

Panagutin si Zaldy Co, kasama ng iba lang mga tiwaling opisyal at nasa ahensya ng gobyerno na sangkot sa katiwalian. Bilang arkitekto ng mga insertions, may obligasyon siyang bumalik, magtestigo, at papanagutin ang sarili.

 

Ipasa ang Anti-Political Dynasty Bill! Wakasan ang sistema ng pulitika na iilan lang na pamilya at nakikinabang at sumisira sa pamahalaan ng bayan.

 

Isabatas ang transparency at accountability measures. Isapubliko at gawing tunay na independent ang Independent Commission on Infrastructure upang kilatisin at panagutin ang mga sangkot sa sistema ng korapsyon sa bansa. Walang tiwala sa mga sikretong maniobra.

 

Sa lahat ng isyu na ito, hinihikayat namin ang bawat Pilipino, lalo ang kabataan, na manindigan at makiisa. Ngayong November 30, tayo'y magkapit-bisig mula sa iba't ibang sulok ng bansa para ipanawagan ang katarungan para sa mga sinalanta ng bagyo at katiwalian, at tayo na ninakawan ng kinabukasan.

 

Sa Metro Manila, magsasagawa ang kabataan ng martsa mula Temple Drive, Quezon City nang 7:30 AM, patungong EDSA People Power Monument, bilang bahagi ng Trillion Peso March. Ginagawa rin ito kasabay ng higit 100 aktibidad sa labas ng Metro Manila, na pinangungunahan ng mga komunidad na direktang tinatamaan ng bagyo, pagbaha, at korapsyon sa flood control.

 

Ang buwis ng mamamayan ay para sa mamamayan at hindi para sa bulsa ng iilan. Palitang ang bulok na sistema ng pulitika para sa interes ng Panahon na para palakasin ang serbisyo publiko at tunay na magbigay ng ginhawa sa buhay ng Pilipino.

PRESS STATEMENT

Samahan ng Kabataang Lumalaban

 

Defend CSE holds mobilizations in Mendiola and Cebu for passage of Teen Pregnancy Prevention bill

Today the Defend CSE network united in a powerful demonstration in Mendiola and Cebu of solidarity, sending a clear and resolute message to legislators: support Senate Bill 1979 and accelerate the nationwide implementation of CSE. This critical piece of legislation aims to fortify adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) initiatives that are under threat by misinformation campaigns.

 

“We believe that CSE is not a threat, but a right,” said Judy Ann Miranda, a leading figure in Defend CSE and secretary general of the labor group Partido Manggagawa. She added that “This is not just about passing laws, it’s about ensuring every young person has the right to accurate, responsible, and empowering education.”

  

Defend CSE, a broad network of civil society organizations (CSOs), advocates, and stakeholders in child rights, youth development, women’s rights, health, and education, stands united in its unwavering commitment to defend Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in the Philippines.

 

“We must continue to safeguard the work of educators, policymakers, and those championing CSE in the Department of Education,” stated Miranda. She pointed out that “Fear-mongering and misinformation must not be allowed to erase the progress we’ve made in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights for young people.”

 

In celebration of Valentine’s month, Defend CSE expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the countless advocates, legislators, families, educators, and other stakeholders who have stood strong in the fight to protect young people’s rights to accurate and empowering education. Despite the continued efforts of opposition groups to undermine CSE through fear-mongering and disinformation, Defend CSE reaffirms that these divisive tactics have no place in a dialogue built on love and care for the well-being of children and youth.

 

CSE is a vital tool for protecting young people from real risks such as gender-based violence, exploitation, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections. It empowers youth with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and future. By equipping young people with comprehensive, developmentally-appropriate, and culturally-sensitive education, CSE ensures they can build safe, healthy, and respectful lives.

 

The Defend CSE movement calls for continued advocacy and action to protect CSE against all forms of distortion and opposition. As they rally for the passage and effective implementation of Senate Bill 1979, they pledge to fight for the rights of young people and ensure CSE remains a key element of the country’s education system.

 

Defend CSE remains committed to working alongside policymakers to ensure that sexual and reproductive health education continues to be a pillar of youth empowerment, human rights, and public health in the Philippines.

 

Photos of the Mendiola and Cebu rallies today can be accessed at FB: Partido Manggagawa

---

About Defend CSE

Defend CSE is a collective network of civil society organizations, advocates, and stakeholders dedicated to defending the rights of young people to access comprehensive sexuality education (CSE). The movement is committed to advocating for youth empowerment, sexual and reproductive health, and education policies that prioritize the well-being of future generations.

 

Press Release

February 5, 2025

Defend CSE

Right to protection and services vs early pregnancies a human rights concern—youth group

 

On December 10, Human Rights Day, a youth group called on the Senate to prioritize the passage of the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) o PAP bill. “Krusyal ang passage ng TPP bill para kamtin ng kabataan ang kanilang karapatan sa reproduktibong kalusugan at sekwalidad. Reproductive rights are human rights,” stated Crisahle Pavillon, spokesperson of PM Kabataan.

 

The issue of early pregnancy has long been a concern for Filipino youth, especially those aged 10-19 years. According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2021, 10 percent of the total number of births in the country were from young mothers. Despite existing programs aimed at reducing this incidence, the numbers of early pregnancies remain high, significantly impacting the youth in terms of their health, education, future, as well as the economy and society.

 

“It is clear that early pregnancy poses severe challenges. Many young mothers are forced to stop their education due to the discrimination they face—not only in schools but also on social media and even from healthcare workers. Furthermore, early pregnancies pose health risks to these young individuals, including complications during pregnancy, repeat pregnancies, and lack of access to affordable and humane health services. There is also a lack of knowledge regarding sexuality, reproductive health, and the concept of consent, which puts the youth at risk of abusive relationships and coercive sexual encounters. In fact, most cases of adolescent pregnancy are a result of statutory rape—clearly a form of violence against children,” said Pavillon.

 

She added that “Thus, this issue is not merely due to young people's flirtations or impulsiveness but is a social issue that requires collective action from families, schools, the government, and the entire community. The teen pregnancy prevention bill aims to protect the youth against early pregnancy and ensure that adequate support is provided for young parents.”

 

Some key objectives of this bill include:

 

1.      Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): This educates individuals about sexuality, reproductive health, consent, and respect for the body in a way that is age- and culturally appropriate. It aims to guide the youth to avoid early pregnancies by providing them with formal and accurate information regarding sex and their sexuality.

 

2.      Social Protection Services: This includes maternal health services, home-based schooling, PhilHealth coverage, counseling, and other services that can help young parents recover and address the stigma or discrimination they face.

 

3.      Access to Reproductive Health Services: The TPP Bill ensures that youth aged 16-18 will have direct access to information and health services, along with guidance from health workers.

 

 Currently, the TPP Bill has garnered sufficient support but still needs to be prioritized in the agenda to complete the interpellation process and proceed to a vote in the Senate. However, with the turn of political events in the country, the youth’s demand for its passage has been ignored.

 

“We are running out of time. Nevertheless, we will not stop. We will remain steadfast in our call for the passage of this bill. To the youth, especially girls and young women, let us collectively advocate for a humane, safe, and just society. Let’s support the TPP Bill—a gift of unity and responsibility for the future of girls and young women!” Pavillon ended. 

December 10, 2024

Partido Manggagawa Kabataan

Passage of Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy bill—mothers and teenagers’ Christmas wish

 

A group of mothers and youth called on the Senate to pass the proposed bill on Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy (PAP) as a “Christmas gift.” Women’s groups and reproductive health advocates trooped to the Senate last Tuesday morning to kick off the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children (VAWC) as well as call for the passage of the PAP bill. They expressed support to Senator Rise Hontiveros who is the main sponsor of the PAP bill and is head of the committee on women and children. 

 

“All we want for Christmas is a PAP. For youth to enjoy the holidays and not be burdened by teenage pregnancy,” stated Judy Ann Miranda, secretary general of Partido Manggagawa (PM). Aside from PM Women’s Committee, members of PM-Kabataan and Tara Kabataan, a Manila-based youth organization, also attended the Senate mobilization.

 

Dressed in Christmas-themed costumes and carrying lanterns with holiday wishes and creative Christmas ornaments, the mothers and youth sang Christmas carols but with lyrics modified to suit their demand against VAWC and for the passage of PAP.

 

The issue of early pregnancy has long been a concern for Filipino youth, especially those aged 10-19 years. According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2021, 10 percent of the total number of births in the country were from young mothers. Despite existing programs aimed at reducing this incidence, the numbers of early pregnancies remain high, significantly impacting the youth in terms of their health, education, future, as well as the economy and society.

 

“It is clear that early pregnancy poses severe challenges. Many young mothers are forced to stop their education due to the discrimination they face—not only in schools but also on social media and even from healthcare workers. Furthermore, early pregnancies pose health risks to these young individuals, including complications during pregnancy, repeat pregnancies, and lack of access to affordable and humane health services. There is also a lack of knowledge regarding sexuality, reproductive health, and the concept of consent, which puts the youth at risk of abusive relationships and coercive sexual encounters. In fact, most cases of adolescent pregnancy are a result of statutory rape—clearly a form of violence against children,” stated Eunice Santiago, an advocate from Tara Kabataan and PM Kabataan.

 

She added that “Thus, this issue is not merely due to young people's flirtations or impulsiveness but is a social issue that requires collective action from families, schools, the government, and the entire community. The PAP Bill aims to protect the youth against early pregnancy and ensure that adequate support is provided for young parents.”

 

Some key objectives of this bill include:

 

1.      Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): This educates individuals about sexuality, reproductive health, consent, and respect for the body in a way that is age- and culturally appropriate. It aims to guide the youth to avoid early pregnancies by providing them with formal and accurate information regarding sex and their sexuality.

 

2.      Social Protection Services: This includes maternal health services, home-based schooling, PhilHealth coverage, counseling, and other services that can help young parents recover and address the stigma or discrimination they face.

 

3.      Access to Reproductive Health Services: The PAP Bill ensures that youth aged 16-18 will have direct access to information and health services, along with guidance from health workers.

 

 Currently, the PAP Bill has garnered sufficient support but still needs to be prioritized in the agenda to complete the interpellation process and proceed to a vote in the Senate.

 

“This is the right time to unite and strengthen the call for the passage of this law. This law is not just for young parents but also aims to protect Filipino youth from violence. The PAP Bill is a crucial step towards promoting the rights of youth and women. Through this, we ensure proper information, support, and protection for their bodies, sexuality, and future. It is time to encourage our lawmakers to prioritize the welfare of the youth and women. Let us collectively advocate for a humane, safe, and just society. Let’s support the PAP Bill—a gift of unity and responsibility for the future of youth and women!” Santiago ended. 

Photos of the Senate rally for PAP can be accessed here:

https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/pfbid0274aNweXzu24HSzJ8wUFqshia2b1tEPSmLVSomKYuNsA7fKVFfttEoB3s9pmdGRUQl

 

https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/pfbid0376RzysU1FXBycwHFyL7MwMagKbsgoAPv4eE1wK173TYFVkuhKZiyKoeUtZ4yJDQFl

Press Release

December 2, 2024

Partido Manggagawa Kabataan, Tara Kabataan

Mothers and teenagers call on Senators to pass PAP bill as “Christmas gift”

A group of mothers and youth called on the Senate to pass the proposed bill on Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy (PAP) as a “Christmas gift.” Women’s groups and reproductive health advocates trooped to the Senate yesterday morning to kick off the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children (VAWC) as well as call for the passage of the PAP bill.  They expressed support to Senator Rise Hontiveros who is the main sponsor of the PAP bill and is head of the committee on women and children.  

“All we want for Christmas is a PAP. For youth to enjoy the holidays and not be burdened by teenage pregnancy,” stated Judy Ann Miranda, secretary general of Partido Manggagawa (PM). Aside from PM Women’s Committee, members of PM-Kabataan and Tara Kabataan, a Manila-based youth organization, also attended the Senate mobilization.

 

Dressed in Christmas-themed costumes and carrying lanterns with holiday wishes and creative Christmas ornaments, the mothers and youth sang Christmas carols but with lyrics modified to suit their demand against VAWC and for the passage of PAP.

 

The issue of early pregnancy has long been a concern for Filipino youth, especially those aged 10-19 years. According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2021, 10 percent of the total number of births in the country were from young mothers. Despite existing programs aimed at reducing this incidence, the numbers of early pregnancies remain high, significantly impacting the youth in terms of their health, education, future, as well as the economy and society.

 

“It is clear that early pregnancy poses severe challenges. Many young mothers are forced to stop their education due to the discrimination they face—not only in schools but also on social media and even from healthcare workers. Furthermore, early pregnancies pose health risks to these young individuals, including complications during pregnancy, repeat pregnancies, and lack of access to affordable and humane health services. There is also a lack of knowledge regarding sexuality, reproductive health, and the concept of consent, which puts the youth at risk of abusive relationships and coercive sexual encounters. In fact, most cases of adolescent pregnancy are a result of statutory rape—clearly a form of violence against children,” stated Eunice Santiago, an advocate from Tara Kabataan and PM Kabataan.

 

She added that “Thus, this issue is not merely due to young people's flirtations or impulsiveness but is a social issue that requires collective action from families, schools, the government, and the entire community. The PAP Bill aims to protect the youth against early pregnancy and ensure that adequate support is provided for young parents.”

 

Some key objectives of this bill include:

 

1.      Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): This educates individuals about sexuality, reproductive health, consent, and respect for the body in a way that is age- and culturally appropriate. It aims to guide the youth to avoid early pregnancies by providing them with formal and accurate information regarding sex and their sexuality.

 

2.      Social Protection Services: This includes maternal health services, home-based schooling, PhilHealth coverage, counseling, and other services that can help young parents recover and address the stigma or discrimination they face.

 

3.      Access to Reproductive Health Services: The PAP Bill ensures that youth aged 16-18 will have direct access to information and health services, along with guidance from health workers.

 

 Currently, the PAP Bill has garnered sufficient support but still needs to be prioritized in the agenda to complete the interpellation process and proceed to a vote in the Senate.

 

“This is the right time to unite and strengthen the call for the passage of this law. This law is not just for young parents but also aims to protect Filipino youth from violence. The PAP Bill is a crucial step towards promoting the rights of youth and women. Through this, we ensure proper information, support, and protection for their bodies, sexuality, and future. It is time to encourage our lawmakers to prioritize the welfare of the youth and women. Let us collectively advocate for a humane, safe, and just society. Let’s support the PAP Bill—a gift of unity and responsibility for the future of youth and women!” Santiago ended. ###

 

Photos of the Senate rally for PAP can be accessed here:

https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/pfbid0274aNweXzu24HSzJ8wUFqshia2b1tEPSmLVSomKYuNsA7fKVFfttEoB3s9pmdGRUQl

 

https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/pfbid0376RzysU1FXBycwHFyL7MwMagKbsgoAPv4eE1wK173TYFVkuhKZiyKoeUtZ4yJDQFl

November 26, 2024

Partido Manggagawa Kabataan

Tara Kabataan

Youth Stand Up Against Multiple Crises, Including the Climate Emergency

 

On International Youth Day, various youth groups declared their commitment to fighting multiple crises, including the worsening climate emergency, which they believe is causing great suffering and threatening the future of the youth.

 

Among those who participated in the Youth Day action with the call "Towards a Just and Sustainable Future," held this afternoon at Timog Circle, was the Partido Manggagawa – Kabataan (PMK).

 

According to Ferdinand Sanchez, spokesperson of PMK, "Today's youth are facing severe crises caused by the greed of the wealthy and corporations, which continue to worsen the state of our society."

 

He added that education is focused on serving foreign interests and the rich, and that poverty and inequality continue to burden our families and youth.

 

"Despite all of this, we must not be disheartened. The crises we face are not natural conditions but the result of a greedy and unjust system—a system that we can and must fight against," Sanchez declared.

 

PMK also emphasized that beyond these issues, the climate crisis poses the gravest threat to the future of the youth.

 

"This is not just an issue for a few; it is a concern for all of us. The recent typhoons and monsoon rains that flooded our streets and homes are just a preview of what could happen in the future. If the youth do not act, and if corporations and governments are not held accountable, we will continue to sink deeper into poverty and disaster," Sanchez explained.

 

He emphasized that the time has come to collectively push for real change—a society that prioritizes people over profit and advocates for a just and sustainable future for all. 

PRESS RELEASE

Partido Manggagawa – Kabataan

August 10, 2024

Ceasefire now and humanitarian aid to Gaza towards an end to Israeli occupation

 

We join the majority of the United Nations and the peoples of the world in campaigning for peace and in calling for an immediate ceasefire to the armed conflict in Gaza to pave the way for a negotiated, internationally brokered political solution to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

 

By means of war, Israel has dispossessed the Palestinians of their right to existence as a free nation, with their territories effectively occupied and ghettoized by Israeli forces since the Nakba of 1948. This horrific condition suffered continuously by the Palestinian people was made possible with the imposition of unimaginable forms of repression, including killings and an unjust economic embargo, while the Israeli government continues to enjoy massive military and economic assistance from the US and other Western powers.

 

The retaliatory campaign by Israel to completely siege Gaza by cutting off food, water, and electricity supplies to annihilate “subhuman” Palestinians is not simply out of bounds but is downright genocide that needs to be opposed to avert a colossal humanitarian crisis.

 

We continue to emphasize that the only solution we see for peace to finally reign in this region is for the peoples of the world, along with institutions such as the United Nations, to campaign for an end to Israel’s occupation and continued land grabbing in Palestinian territories, and to guarantee the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people.

 

The Philippines maintains diplomatic relations with Palestine since 1989, thus working for freedom and peace and preserving mutual respect with each other as independent nations will work better than being torn apart by geo-political alignments and other relations dictated by big powers.

 

However, we find the vote of abstention to the UN ceasefire resolution by the Philippine government politically reprehensible since a “no position” stand in the face of a glaring state of genocide and humanitarian crisis in Gaza works in favor of imperialist powers who seek for the total extermination of any Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.

 

We therefore demand that the Philippine government reverse its stand in favor of the UN ceasefire resolution as this is the most urgent need at the moment to stop further loss of lives and destruction, facilitate global humanitarian aid to Gaza, and formulate a workable and just solution to end the war.

 

We likewise call on the Philippine government to exert all efforts to determine the actual condition and secure the safe release and repatriation of Filipinos who reportedly went missing or have been killed in the October 7 attack by Hamas. At least 30,000 Filipinos live in Israel, and 100 live in Gaza Strip, according to reports.

 

STOP THE WAR ON GAZA!

CEASEFIRE AND HUMANITARIAN AID TO GAZA!

END ISRAELI OCCUPATION OF GAZA AND WESTBANK!

FREEDOM FOR PALESTINE!

November 4, 2023

Partido Manggagawa 

Youth groups slam Parlade, support red-tagged celebrities

Youth groups slammed the red-tagging by Lt. Gen Antonio Parlade, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, who threatened and harassed celebrities advocating for human rights. Liza Soberano was warned by Parlade after participating as a guest in a militant women group’s online forum. Aside from Soberano, Parlade also red-tagged Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and Angel Locsin, whose sister was alleged as an underground activist in Quezon.

 

“We are all Liza, Catriona and Angel. Advocating for women's rights is not an act of terrorism nor a sign of being a member of a terrorist group. Speaking up for the rights of the marginalized and exploited is a right protected by the Constitution. It is impunity when death threats can be thrown at celebrities and activists on the basis of mere suspicion,” said Christine Pangan, Youth Claim Spokesperson. Youth Claim is a youth organization in Cebu composed of college students and community youth who stand for social justice.

 

Meanwhile Jonel Lalvador of Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan, stated that “Parlade's redtagging of Liza Soberano, Catriona Gray and Angel Locsin is the best argument against the Anti-Terror Law and exposes the abuses it will spawn.” PM-Kabataan is the youth wing of the militant labor group.

 

One of the most controversial provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law is the arrest of suspects without warrant and for mere suspicion, and detention for as long as 24 days. “Activism is not terrorism. It is clear that both are different but the current administration is blurring the distinction. Under the Anti-Terror Law, it is very alarming that activists can easily be red-tagged. Activists use their voice and act upon their goal to bring positive change so Parlade should stop conflating activism with terrorism. Stop red-tagging human rights organizations, religious groups, unions and the mainstream media,” said Pangan.

 

“We have this so-called freedom of expression and there is nothing wrong with it especially when you advocate for a greater good. We support women and everyone who speak out their minds, defend their rights and fight for the betterment of all. The pervasiveness of red-tagging will only worsen the Philippine government's human rights and violations. Now, that we have seen how military has red-tagged public figures, I hope we all realized how life-threatening it is especially to those people who lack money, fandom and legal connections to protect them,” asserted Labrador.

 

Pangan insisted that “The flimsy basis of Parlade to accuse Liza Soberano applies to all of us. We must be heard without being labeled terrorists.”

October 26, 2020

Group calls for bigger educ, ayuda budget in response to 3M unenrolled students

A youth group today called for massive government intervention in response to the 3 million students who are not enrolled for the school year. The Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan (PM-Kabataan), youth wing of the militant labor group Partido Manggagawa, asked for additional funds for basic education and emergency employment in the proposed 2021 budget.

 

“Three million students are bound to be left behind if the government does not act decisively. Even though education already has the biggest allocation in the proposed 2021 General Appropriations Act, there are still yawning gaps if one looks at the details. Just to cite one example, the allocation for the DepEd computerization program is a mere P9 billion which is just half of the fund for the National Task Force to End Communist Armed Conflict. It is obvious that the biggest threat to social development are 3 million unenrolled students and not 3,000 armed rebels,” observed Jonel Labrador, PM-Kabataan spokesperson.

 

Labrador sourced the figures from the information released by the Department of Budget and Management last August 25 (https://www.dbm.gov.ph/index.php/budget-documents/2021/2021-people-s-budget/2021-budget-at-a-glance-proposed).

 

The group also said that the main reason that students will not be enrolling is that income insecurity accruing from joblessness amidst the pandemic. The latest unemployment figures reveal 4.6 million Filipinos jobless last July.

 

“Government must provide emergency employment to jobless Filipinos even as it must call on employers for a timeout on layoffs. In the Mactan Ecozone for example, companies are shedding jobs left and right with the Sports City group of companies implementing the mother of all layoffs which victimized more than 4,000 workers. But the Labor Department has been curiously silent and inactive on these mass layoffs,” Labrador added.

 

He pointed out that “The tulong panghanapbuhay for displaced and disadvantaged workers is a paltry P9.9 billion. This will hardly make a dent in the dire unemployment and underemployment situation of the country.”

September 13, 2020

 

Education frontliners say: Timeout on layoffs, wage cuts in private schools

With online classes to start within the month, a coalition of unions of faculty and staff in the private school sector is putting forth its urgent concerns such as mass layoffs, loss of income and flawed issuances by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

“While we understand the adversities faced by administration in the private colleges and universities, we are nonetheless concerned at actual and threatened retrenchments of employees, reduction of wages and benefits, denigration of job security and lack of worker voice in the policies being crafted. Indeed private schools will incur losses due to the impact of covid. But these losses are not substantial as to cause any potential risk of financial distress, unless management can prove otherwise through an objective assessment of its financial condition. We call for a stop or timeout on layoffs and wage cuts in private schools,” stated Rene Tadle, lead convenor of the Coalition of Teachers and Staff of Colleges and Universities of the Philippines (CoTeSCUP).

CoTeSCUP held a webinar and presser this morning to air its demands to school administrations and the government. The group is is asking for the withdrawal of DOLE issuances DO 213, LA 17 and LA 9.

In reaction to the proposed Bayanihan 2 which includes support to education, CoTeSCUP supports state aid to private education but insists that it must be conditional on a no-layoff commitment from school administration.

Meanwhile a youth and student group expressed solidarity with CoTeSCUP’s appeal. Jonel Labrador, coordinator of Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan declared that “We are one with teachers and staff of private colleges and universities in their demand for voice and protection. Similar to private school employees, students’ grievances are also not being heard, including alarm at the continued imposition of internet, laboratory and electricity and lab fees despite the online modality. Thus we doubt the narrative that private schools need to shed jobs because they are in financial distress.” PM-Kabataan is the youth wing of the labor group Partido Manggagawa.

Last week Tadle spoke at a Senate hearing yesterday on pending bills about online classes and assistance to private schools. He raised concerns about pedagogy such as online class size and labor grievances like retrenchments of faculty and staff.

Tadle insisted that "School administrators often renege on their constitutionally-mandated obligation to include labor unions in the decision-making process for school policies, especially with regard to adjustments due to the pandemic. This is one of the root causes of the confusion and dilemma experienced by the employees, despite union officers exerting all efforts to communicate with management to include them in crafting policy."

In the past few months, CoTeSCUP sent letters and position papers to the Senate, House of Representatives, Department of Labor and Employment, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education and the Inter Agency Task Force asking for government intervention in the education sector amidst growing concerns regarding policies and readjustments to be implemented in the upcoming opening of classes.

CoTeSCUP is a coalition which consists of the Faculty Association of MAPUA Institute of Technology, Silliman University Faculty Association, Lyceum Faculty Association, Far Eastern University Faculty Association, Inc., Centro Escolar University Faculty and Allied Workers Union, St. Paul University-Manila Faculty Union, Union of Faculty and Employees of Saint Louis University, College Faculty Independent Union, University of San Carlos, Mapua Institute of Technology Labor Union, San Beda College Union, San Beda College Alabang Employees Association, Faculty Association of DLSU Dasmarinas Inc., De La Salle University Employee Association Union, De La Salle Zobel Staff Organization, and De La Salle Araneta Faculty Society.

Prof. Rene Tadle

Lead Convenor, CoTeSCUP

0977-742-4120

August 12, 2020

Education unions call for workers participation in covid plans of private schools

A coalition of unions of faculty and staff in the private school sector is calling for workers participation in the covid-related plans of private schools with the looming start of online classes.

 

CoTeSCUP lead convenor Rene Tadle said that "School administrators often renege on their constitutionally-mandated obligation to include labor unions in the decision-making process for school policies, especially with regard to adjustments due to the pandemic. This is one of the root causes of the confusion and dilemma experienced by the employees, despite union officers exerting all efforts to communicate with management to include them in crafting policy."

 

Tadle spoke at a Senate hearing yesterday on pending bills about online classes and assistance to private schools. He raised concerns about pedagogy such as online class size and labor grievances like retrenchments of faculty and staff. CoTeSCUP supports state aid to private education but insists that it must be conditional on a no-layoff commitment from school administration.

 

Tadle expressed apprehension about the looming retrenchment and wage cuts in the education industry. He said that “While we understand the adversities faced by administration in the private colleges and universities, we are nonetheless concerned at actual and threatened retrenchments of employees, reduction of wages and benefits, denigration of job security and lack of worker voice in the policies being crafted. Indeed private schools will incur losses due to the impact of covid. But these losses are not substantial as to cause any potential risk of financial distress, unless management can prove otherwise through an objective assessment of its financial condition.”

 

Meanwhile a youth and student group expressed solidarity with CoTeSCUP’s appeal. Jonel Labrador, coordinator of Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan declared that “We are one with teachers and staff of private colleges and universities in their demand for voice and protection. Similar to private school employees, students are also not being heard, including alarm at the continued imposition of internet, laboratory and electricity and lab fees. Thus we doubt the narrative that private schools need to shed jobs because they are in financial distress.” PM-Kabataan is the youth wing of the labor group Partido Manggagawa.

 

CoTeSCUP recently sent letters and position papers to the Senate, House of Representatives, Department of Labor and Employment, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education and the Inter Agency Task Force asking for government intervention in the education sector amidst growing concerns regarding policies and readjustments to be implemented in the upcoming opening of classes.

 

CoTeSCUP is a coalition which consists of the Faculty Association of MAPUA Institute of Technology, Siliman University Faculty Association, Lyceum Faculty Association, Far Eastern University Faculty Association, Inc., Centro Escolar University Faculty and Allied Workers Union, St. Paul University-Manila Faculty Union, Union of Faculty and Employees of Saint Louis University, College Faculty Independent Union, University of San Carlos, Mapua Institute of Technology Labor Union; San Beda College Alabang Employees Association, Faculty Association of DLSU Dasmarinas Inc., De La Salle University Employee Association Union, De La Salle Zobel Staff Organization, and De La Salle Araneta Faculty Society.

August 6, 2020

Contact: Prof. Rene Tadle

Lead Convenor, CoTeSCUP

0977-742-4120

Youth group supports frontliners’ call for timeout

The youth and student group Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan (PM-Kabataan) expressed solidarity with the call of medical frontliners for a two-week “time out” in the Mega Manila area in order to arrest the spread of covid and recalibrate the response to the pandemic. PM-Kabataan is the youth wing of the labor group Partido Manggagawa.

 

Jonel Labrador, PM-Kabataan coordinator, said that “We stand with doctors, nurses and other medical frontliners in their demand for a time out before the health system is overwhelmed and so that government can devise an effective strategy. Workers will support this appeal as long as there is ayudang sapat for the duration of the time out and there will be balik trabahong ligtas once the ECQ is lifted. In fact, included in the frontliners’ demands are precisely the provision of aid, public transportation and compliance with workplace safety.”

 

He added that “Medical frontliners are right that they should not be put in a situation where they decide who will live or die once the health system is overwhelmed. Similarly workers should not be forced to choose between contracting covid at work and dying of hunger while jobless.”

 

PM-Kabataan also slammed the opposition of Sen. Cynthia Villar and Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez to the time out call. “In dismissing the call of medical frontliners, Villar and Lopez are being the voice of big business. For them, profit trumps public health. In contrast, PM-Kabataan asserts that if public health and workers’ safety are not secured then there will be no economic recovery for all,” Labrador insisted.

 

He asserted that government should not just consult with medical frontliners but put epidemiologists not generals in charge of the covid response. “Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea’s reply that the IATF will discuss the call of medical frontliners is not enough. The generals at the helm of IATF should be put on time out and replaced by epidemiologists and medical experts. The battle against covid is a public health concern not a peace and order issue,” Labrador elaborated.

 

He also expressed solidarity with the protest today by motorcycle riders who are opposing the IATF’s policy of no barrier/shield, no back ride policy. “This is not only illogical but also unsafe as proven by transportation experts. But the IATF is monopolized by generals so their vision is tunneled by their peace and order perspective. If you are a hammer, everything looks like a nail,” explained Labrador.

 

He concluded that “The labor movement, medical frontliners, motorcycle riders, mobility advocates and all affected groups and sectors must ally to push for the right policies to win the war against covid.”

Partido Manggagawa-Kabataa

Pahayag ng PM-Kabataan sa SONA 2020 ni Duterte

Walang duda na si Duterte ang numero unong pasaway at aminadong inutil kaya lumalala ang covid cases, lumulubog ang ekonomiya at humihirap ang buhay ng masa, kasama na ang mga kabataan.

Sa kanyang SONA, inamin ni Duterte na inutil siya. Inutil daw siya sa pagtatanggol ng soberanya ng bansa laban sa panghihimasok ng China. Ang totoo, inutil siya sa paglutas sa mga problema ng bansa.

Binanggit niya na tumataas ang presyo ng mga bilihin, nawalan ng trabaho’t hanapbuhay ang mga tao. Pero wala siyang inihain na solusyon. Wala siyang inilatag na plano. Basta maniwala na lang na may gagawin ang gobyerno!

Apat na taon na mula nang ipangako niyang wawakasan ang endo. Pandemya pa din ang kontraktwalisasyon sa mga manggagawa. Apat na tao na mula nang ipangako niyang tatapusin ang provincial wages. Pandemya pa din ang barat na sweldo ng mga manggagawa. Apat na taon na mula nang ipangako niyang susugpuin ang korapsyon. Pandemya pa din ang mga nakawan sa gobyerno at ni-rerecycle lang ang mga Duterte appointees na nabulgar sa anomalya.

Apat na taon nang binigo ni Duterte ang kanyang mga pangako. Di na pwedeng mangako lang uli siya na malulutas ang kahirapan sa huling dalawang taon ng kanyang termino!

Isa lang ang tinotoo ni Duterte sa kanyang mga pangako—ang dumanak ang dugo sa war on drugs. Sa apat na taon ay lagpas 10,000 mahihirap ang pinatay dahil daw nanlaban.

Sa huling dalawang taon, dadanak pa uli ang dugo. Gusto ni Duterte na ibalik ang death penalty. Pero kahit walang batas sa death penalty, dumadami ang namamatay dahil sa covid. At namimiligrong mamatay sa gutom ang mas marami.

Sa huling dalawang taon, walang magbabago. Ang fairy tale sa isipan ni Duterte ay ang salot ng droga na sumisira sa pamilyang Pilipino kaya’t ang solusyon ay kamay na bakal laban sa mga kriminal. Hindi niya makita ang nagdudumilat na katotohanan na kahirapan ang totoong problema ng bansa.

Ang solusyon sa kahirapan ay hindi war on drugs kundi gera laban sa oligarchs—sa mga malalaking kapitalista na may kontrol ng industriya, sa malalaking asendero na nagmamay-ari ng mga lupain at dayuhang kapitalista na bumabansot sa lokal na ekonomiya. Pero naaalala lang ni Duterteng banatan ang oligarchs kapag may gagantihan siya at may ipapalit siya na crony.

Sabi ni Duterte sa gitna nang kanyang SONA, di daw nya naiintindihan ang binabasa nya. Ano pa bang resibo ang kailangan natin para ipakitang ang pasaway na presidente—at ang bulok na sistema—ang dahilan ng paghihirap na dinaranas ng mga kabataan at manggagawa!

27 July 2020

Student and youth protest today at Senate in response to House passing MACR bill

In response to House passing MACR bill:

Student and youth form “MACR Watch,” hold protest today at Senate

In response to the passing last night by the House of Representatives on third and final reading of the proposed bill lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 12 years, student and youth groups are formed a “MACR Watch” and held a noisy protest today at the Senate.

The opposition to the lowering of the minimum wage of criminal responsibility continues to escalate with more groups holding protests. Today youthful protesters from the student council of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, the student party PUP Speak, Pwersa Youth and Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan marched from the Film Center to the Senate complex to call on senators to reject the proposed bill that seeks to criminalize children aged 12 years old and above. The protest follows on the heels of a similar protest yesterday along Katipunan Ave. by scores of Ateneo students led by the student council.

The young protesters carried a streamer with the call “Paaralan hindi kulungan para sa mga batang Pilipino! Not 9! Not 12! No to the lowering of the age of criminal responsibility!” The groups announced that they are forming a “MACR Watch” that will monitor the deliberations by Senate on the proposed bill.

The various youth groups are all part of the Partido Manggagawa (PM) partylist coalition. Dhel Pulanco, the groups’ spokesperson, declared that “The opposition to making children criminals, along with the bloody war on drugs by the Duterte administration, is part of the election platform of PM.” Pulanco is third nominee of PM which is among the 134 partylist organizations that the Comelec recently announced is accredited.

“We challenge the Senate to engage in evidence-based policy-making instead of impressionistic law-making. In last Friday’s hearing at the Senate, numerous experts spoke against the proposed bill based on tons of scientific research and case studies of children in conflict with the law. Yet committee chair Sen. Gordon abruptly ended the hearing and declared that he stands by his unsubstantiated opinion that children aged 12 years old should be arrested and imprisoned. This same modus operandi of unscientific legislative work animated the House when it passed the MACR bill,” Pulanco elaborated.

He added that “The present Juvenile Justice and Welfare Law has enough provisions to address the concerns of some about incidents of children in conflict with the law. It must be said that these incidents are decreasing according to the PNP. Address the root causes not the symptoms of the problem of children in conflict with the law. For example, the prevalence of child labor is a much bigger issue but it is not being addressed by the administration and Congress.”

The groups vowed that the action today will not be the end of the protests against the proposed bill. Pulanco averred that “Along with other student, youth, human rights and civil society organizations, we will campaign until the proposed bill is killed.”

January 29, 2019

PM partylist to hold protest today at Senate in response to House passing MACR bill

In response to House passing MACR bill:

Groups form “MACR Watch,” hold protest today at Senate

In response to the passing last night by the House of Representatives on third and final reading of the proposed bill lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 12 years, student and youth groups are forming a “MACR Watch” and holding a protest today at the Senate.

The opposition to the lowering of the minimum wage of criminal responsibility continues to escalate with more groups holding protests. Today some two hundred youthful protesters from the student council of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, the student party PUP Speak, Pwersa Youth and Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan will march from the Film Center to the Senate complex to call on senators to reject the proposed bill that seeks to criminalize children aged 12 years old and above. The planned protest follows on the heels of a similar protest yesterday along Katipunan Ave. by scores of Ateneo students led by the student council.

The young protesters will carry a streamer with the call “Paaralan hindi kulungan para sa mga batang Pilipino! Not 9! Not 12! No to the lowering of the age of criminal responsibility!” The groups announce that they are forming a “MACR Watch” that will monitor the deliberations by Senate on the proposed bill.

The various youth groups are all part of the Partido Manggagawa (PM) partylist coalition. Dhel Pulanco, the groups’ spokesperson, declared that “The opposition to making children criminals, along with the bloody war on drugs by the Duterte administration, is part of the election platform of PM.” Pulanco is third nominee of PM which is among the 134 partylist organizations that the Comelec recently announced is accredited.

“We challenge the Senate to engage in evidence-based policy-making instead of impressionistic law-making. In last Friday’s hearing at the Senate, numerous experts spoke against the proposed bill based on tons of scientific research and case studies of children in conflict with the law. Yet committee chair Sen. Gordon abruptly ended the hearing and declared that he stands by his unsubstantiated opinion that children aged 12 years old should be arrested and imprisoned. This same modus operandi of unscientific legislative work animated the House when it passed the MACR bill,” Pulanco elaborated.

He added that “The present Juvenile Justice and Welfare Law has enough provisions to address the concerns of some about incidents of children in conflict with the law. It must be said that these incidents are decreasing according to the PNP. Address the root causes not the symptoms of the problem of children in conflict with the law. For example, the prevalence of child labor is a much bigger issue but it is not being addressed by the administration and Congress.”

The groups vowed that the action today will not be the end of the protests against the proposed bill. Pulanco averred that “Along with other student, youth, human rights and civil society organizations, we will campaign until the proposed bill is killed.”

January 29, 2019

Youth group asks: Are there decent jobs for OFW’s going home plus new graduates?

In reaction to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for some 260,000 OFW’s in Kuwait to come home, the youth group Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan (PMK) asked if there are decent jobs awaiting them in the Philippines.

“We welcome our parents coming home from Kuwait so families can be reunited. But are there regular jobs paying living wages for them and the 600,000 new graduates plus thousands more finishing K-12 that won’t go to college? The reason OFW’s go to Kuwait and elsewhere is because of lack of decent jobs in the Philippines,” asserted Kim Dolojo, PMK spokesperson and a PUP student.

Last week, PMK held a protest at the offices of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) to highlight its call for decent jobs for young workers.

“President Duterte is again making a personal promise, this time of providing jobs for OFW’s. But he has yet to deliver on his campaign promise two years go to end endo the moment he assumes the presidency. Mr. President, not another broken promise,” Dolojo warned.

She added that “So this Labor Day, PMK members are joining Nagkaisa, KMU and other labor groups is uniting to denounce the administration’s broken promises and demanding regular jobs for Filipinos.”

Dolojo insisted that “In 2016, 78% of the jobless were 15 to 34 years old. Half of them were aged 24 years old or below. A diploma is no antidote to unemployment as 34% of the unemployed had actually gone to college and 20% were college graduates!”

PMK is raising a red flag as the World Bank recently released a report about the lack of quality jobs in the country and the worsening inequality as a result. The group is likewise questioning ECOP for the Jobstreet data that only 24% of employers are willing to hire K-12 graduates.

“An employers organization, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry earlier questioned that the minimum number of hours required of senior high school students are not enough to train and qualify them for entry-level work,” Dolojo explained.

She cited the International Labour Organization (ILO) report titled “Global Employment Trends for Youth 2017: Paths to a better working future,” that stated that youth unemployment rate for Southeast Asia and the Pacific is seen to rise from 11.7 percent in 2016 to 12 percent in 2017, and to 12.2 percent in 2018.

Partido Manggagawa-Kabataan

April 29, 2018