PAP at CSE ay para sa proteksyon ng mga batang babae

 

Walang mali at kulang sa panukalang PAP bill. Ang mali ay ang luma at tradisyunal na kaisipan na ang sex education ay nakakasira ng kaisipan ng kabataan.

 

Ang sinisira ng problema at teenage pregnancy ay ang buhay at kinabukasan ng mga batang ina. Para maiwasan ito, responsibilidad ng estado at maging ng mga pamilya na buksan ang isipan ng mga kabataan sa wasto at tamang gawin sa kanilang sekswalidad, hindi ang maghasik ng pangamba na ang sex education ay isang karumaldumal na bagay.

 

Ang Teenage Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Bill ay isang mahalagang hakbang upang tugunan ang patuloy at kritikal na isyu ng maagang pagbubuntis at ang kaugnay nitong karahasang nakabatay sa kasarian. Nararapat lamang na linawin ang ilang maling paniniwala ukol sa panukalang batas na ito:

 

1.           Hindi tinuturuan o hinihikayat ng TPP Bill ang kabataan na gumawa ng sekswal na gawain, lalong lalo na ang masturbation. Ang Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) ay hindi tungkol sa panghihikayat sa kabataan na  makipagtalik, kundi pagbibigay ito ng tamang kaalaman ukol sa kanilang katawan, tamang pagpapasya, at ligtas na pakikipagtalik.

 

2.           Ang CSE ay hindi hango sa European standards. Ito ay naayon sa mga values, kultura, at konteksto ng lipunang Pilipino upang masiguro na ang mga kabataan ay makakakuha ng wastong impormasyon base sa kanilang edad at kultura.

 

3.           Ang sex education ay hindi naghihikayat ng promiscuity o kalaswaan. Sa halip, tinutulungan nito ang kabataan na magkaroon ng sapat na kaalaman upang gumawa ng tamang desisyon at maprotektahan ang kanilang sarili mula sa karahasang sekswal at mapang-abusong relasyon.

 

4.           Hindi inaalis ng TPP Bill ang tungkulin ng mga magulang sa paggabay sa kanilang mga anak. Kinikilala sa TPP Bill ang karapatan ng mga magulang na gabayan ang kanilang anak sa usaping sexual health at reproductive health.

 

Isa rin sa pangunahing layunin ng TPP Bill ay suportahan ang mga batang ina at ama. Kabilang dito ang pagbibigay ng akses sa home-based schooling, tamang impormasyon sa paggamit ng contraceptives/akses sa contraceptives, at counseling. Sa pamamagitan nito, matutulungan silang harapin ang diskriminasyong nararanasan sa paaralan, sa media, at sa ating healthcare system. Binibigyan nito ng pagkakataong makabangon muli ang mga kabataang biktima ng rape, ng pang-aabuso.

 

Higit sa lahat, ang maagang pagbubuntis sa Pilipinas ay hindi lamang usaping personal o pampamilya—ito ay isang suliraning panlipunan na dulot ng kahirapan, karahasang nakabatay sa kasarian, at kakulangan sa tamang edukasyon at mga serbisyo. Kinikilala ng TPP Bill ang halaga ng pagkakaroon ng tamang impormasyon at serbisyo ukol sekswalidad at kasarian ng kabataan. Ito ay isang karapatan na nararapat na natatamasa ng kabataan upang proteksyunan sila laban sa sexual abuse at mapang-abusong relasyon.

 

Kaya’t nananawagan kami sa Senado at kay President Marcos na ipasa ang TPP Bill at agarang tugunan ang isyu ng maagang pagbubuntis at karahasang nakabatay sa kasarian. Puntuhin ang mga probisyon sa bill na hindi malinaw — maging patas sa mga bata, mga babae, at kabataan na nangangailangan ng bill na ito para sa kanilang kinabukasan.

 

At bilang isang lipunan, kasama na ng ating gobyerno, responsibilidad natin pangalagaan ang ating kabataan anuman ang kanilang edad at kasarian.

 

Ang Partido Manggagawa, kasama ang mga kasapi naming nanay at kabataang babae, ay tutungo sa Senado sa January 28 para sa panawagang ito.

 

Ipapahayag ang aming paninindigan sa kawastuhan ng Teen Pregnancy Bill at pagsuporta sa aming Kampeon na si Senator Risa Hontiveros. 

Livestream of Defend CSE Movement today: https://www.facebook.com/CRNPhilippines/videos/1159546235887049/

Press Statement

January 24, 2025

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

Duterte must be held accountable for drug war and labor-related killings

  

The workers group Partido Manggagawa (PM) asserted that former President Rodrigo Duterte must be held accountable for the widespread killings that transpired under his administration. “Duterte must face the music for all the killings during his bloody regime, from drug war killings to the murder of labor leaders and activists,” stated Rene Magtubo, PM national chair and Marikina City councilor.

 

He added that “For all intents and purposes, Duterte admitted to his culpability for the drug war deaths in his testimony yesterday at the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing. But we must also remember that the drug war extended into a war against human rights defenders. His violent rhetoric not just against drug addicts but also against human rights activists enabled the security forces and vested interests who consider labor and environmental rights defenders as enemies or terrorists. Justice must be served to the 68 victims of labor-related killings under Duterte.”

 

Labor groups put the number of labor leaders and activists killed at 68 from 2016 to the end of Duterte’s term. For 2024, the Philippines slipped in the Labour Rights Index compared to its 2022 score because of the lack of protection for freedom to unionize and bargain collectively. The Labour Rights Index is maintained by the WageIndicator Foundation and the Center for Labor Research based in Amsterdam.

 

“The Philippines got a zero score for Freedom of Association which is to be expected given the unsolved labor-related killings. The Human Rights Watch counted four more union leaders and activists killed under the current administration bringing the total to 72. Moreover, the recommendations of the International Labour Organization’s High-Level Mission in 2023 remain remain pending due to the government’s lack of social dialogue with workers’ groups,” Magtubo explained.

 

The High-Level Mission was the result of outrage at the brutal daylight murder of union organizer Dennis Sequeña just a couple of days before the International Labour Conference of 2019. Sequeña’s killing remains unsolved despite a finding by the AO 35 national task force that it is labor-related. “Justice for Dennis Sequeña will partly be achieved if Duterte is punished for the thousands extra-judicial and labor-related killings under his administration,” Magtubo concluded.

October 29, 2024

KOALISYON LABAN SA CHACHA CALLS FOR WAGE HIKE, SCRAP CHACHA TALKS ON PRE-LABOR DAY

Members of Koalisyon Laban sa ChaCha convened today at Quiapo Church to observe Labor Day and emphasize the urgent need of workers for wage increases, vehemently opposing Charter Change.

The pre-Labor Day mass was presided over by Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, head of Caritas Philippines, and also one of the convenors of the Koalisyon. Numerous leaders and members of labor groups and people's organizations were present.

“In the spirit of St. Joseph, the patron saint of workers, we acknowledge the hard work of our workers to provide for their families and to uplift our economy. We offer special prayers and blessings to them as they continue to fight for dignity and rights,” Bagaforo said.

Coalition members, composed of various religious groups and people’s organizations, underscored the importance of enacting and enabling laws that guarantee living wages, labor rights and protections, and other safeguards in the worsening economic and climate conditions.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, also a convenor, called for the immediate passage of Senate Bill No. 2534 or the "P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act of 2023”, in which she guaranteed the inclusion of not just regular workers, but also individuals employed under contractual agreements, sub-contractual agreements, or manpower agencies earning the minimum wage.

“Umento sa sahod ang isinisigaw ng ating mga manggagawa. Iyan ang tunay nilang kailangan. Mariin tayong nananawagan na mas pagtuunan ng oras at panahon ang pagpasa ng mga batas na makakapagbigay ng kagyat na ginhawa sa kanila, hindi ang ChaCha.,” Hontiveros said.

Likewise, Judy Miranda, Secretary General of Partido Manggagawa also emphasized the urgency of legislating daily wage increments, citing the Senate's approval of the said bill last February.

“Sa 'Sahod Itaas, ChaCha Iatras', mariing nakikibaka ang mga manggagawa laban sa patuloy na pagtaas ng mga bilihin at mababang pasahod. Hiling ng mga manggagawa na maisabatas ang dagdag sahod kada araw, na kung saan ang P100  na panukala ay inaprubahan na ng Senado,”

Miranda also highlighted the four key issues crucial to the labor sector, dubbed as the "Apat Na Dapat" (Four Musts): lowering daily expenses, raising wages, creating jobs, and addressing poverty. She stressed that these priorities reflect workers' need for concrete governmental actions, and not the proposed constitutional amendments.

“Ang pagbalewala ng pamahalaan sa pangangailangan ng mga ordinaryong manggagawa habang itinutulak ang walang kabuluhang Charter Change ay sumisira sa prinsipyo ng "primacy of labor over capital" ng Konstitusyon,” Miranda said.

NEWS RELEASE
30 April 2024

PM Stands with Senator Risa Hontiveros Against Vilification by Quiboloy Camp

 

Photo from Daily Tribune

Partido Manggagawa stands with Senator Risa Hontiveros against the malicious attacks orchestrated by the Quiboloy camp, as the Committee on Women and Children resumed its public hearing yesterday on the latter’s alleged criminal offenses.

 

The group asserts that the arrest of Quiboloy is a fitting commemoration of women's month. Tomorrow women members of Partido Manggagawa are joining two mass actions; at the Senate in the morning and at Mehan Garden in the afternoon.

 

Senator Risa hoped that the man at the center of the controversy finally submits under the jurisdiction of the Senate for investigation, in aid of legislation. Quibuloy failed to show up again, prompting the committee to finally issue a warrant of arrest against the self-appointed son of god.

 

But in a bid to defend himself in absentia, Quibuloy sent his followers to the Senate yesterday to demand Senator Risa's resignation instead. His followers claim to seek justice for what they perceive as unjust treatment of their leader by both the US and Philippine governments. Yet, Quibuloy himself conveniently avoids facing the same demands for justice within his own kingdom. In retaliation, he stoops to vilifying the individual who dares to subject him to public scrutiny. 

 

Here he crossed the line long held and defended by the women’s movement.

 

Targeting a champion of women's and children's rights like Senator Risa Hontiveros is an affront to all women. It is deeply concerning to witness a cult leader, who shirks accountability for his crimes by hiding in the shadows, manipulating his female followers to shield him from scrutiny, and tarnishing the reputation of a prominent female leader. This behavior exposes him for what he truly is: an incorrigible male supremacist.

 

Senator Risa may stand as the lone woman in the Senate on this contentious issue of justice, but she stands fortified by the unwavering support from grassroots women across the nation. United in solidarity, this battle is already won, with or without Quibuloy's human body landing in jail. 

06 March 2024

Covenant signing between riders’ group KAGULONG and national candidates

Media Advisory

February 5, 2022

Kapatiran sa Dalawang Gulong (Kagulong)

Contact Don Pangan @ 09176300034

 

 

WHEN: Feb. 6, 8am-11am

 

WHERE: Bantayog ng mga Bayani, QC

 

Program

-National Anthem

-Prayer

-Opening Remarks and Background Discussion of the Covenant - Don Pangan Kagulong Sec. Gen

-Affirmation and Acceptance of the Covenant - Riders Champion

 VP Leni - Video Message

 Sen Kiko Pangilinan (Video Message)

 Neri Colmenares (attending)

 Teddy Baguilat (Video Message)

 Sen. Leila De Lima -represented by Atty. Dino De Leon

 Sen. Risa Hontiveros (Video Message)

 Sen. Alex Lacson (attending)

 Atty. Sonny Matula (attending)

 Sen. Antonio Trillanes - Represented by Cong. Cash Cabochan (MAGDALO Partylist)

 Sen. JV Ejercito

 

-Signing of the Covenant

-Closing Remarks/Call to Action - Robert Perillo Vice President (KAGULONG) and President Bulacan Motorcycle Riders Confederation (BMRF)

Provide free covid tests for workers—labor group

 

Photo from DTI

With the daily COVID-19 infections at a record high and the active cases topping 100,000, the labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) renewed the call for free testing of workers who are mandated to work onsite. A dialogue between the labor coalition Nagkaisa and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is scheduled this week to discuss workers’ demands. Ahead of the dialogue, PM called on employers and the DOLE to ensure that safety committees are operating in workplaces, health protocols are being followed and occupational safety and health (OSH) standards are being enforced.

 

“A lot of factories and workplaces are operating and numerous workers are reporting onsite under the Alert Level 3 protocol. Thus, the necessity of ensuring workplace safety. Workers should assert that OSH regulations are implemented. Hanapbuhay ito hindi hanap patay,” Rene Magtubo, PM chair explained.

 

He repeated the call of Nagkaisa chair and senatorial candidate Sonny Matula for the government to subsidize the testing of workers who have symptoms or are unvaccinated but reporting for work.

 

“Workers are trapped in a catch-22 situation that is not of their own making. Antigen tests are cheaper than RT-PCR but still too expensive for minimum wage earners who are among the working poor. There are at least a million minimum wage workers in the NCR and half a million in Calabarzon, both areas facing the brunt of the new COVID-19 wave. Once workers are positive from antigen tests, they are immediately barred from working but cannot get sickness benefits from the Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) which only accepts RT-PCR test results. The way out of this trap is for the government to provide free RT-PCR tests for workers,” Magtubo explained.

 

PM and Nagkaisa have been calling for “balik trabahong ligtas” since the lockdowns were relaxed in late 2020 and the economy re-opened. Senator Risa Hontiveros championed this call by filing an eponymous bill that guarantees provision of PPE’s for workers and enforcement of OSH standards. The demand for free testing however has not been heeded as the recent national budget conspicuously does not explicitly provide funds for it. Still the free tests and paid quarantine leaves can be provided as benefits from ECC, Philhealth, the Social Security System as an alternative.

 

Magtubo asked workers to collectively negotiate with employers for the provision of PPE’s, enforcement of OSH rules and the formation of safety committees. “All of these are guaranteed in the OSH Law. Workers just need to claim our rights. Ang karapatan ay ipinaglalaban. Batas ini!,” he added.

January 10, 2022

Group calls for OSH safeguards and free testing of workers

 

In the face of the rapid increase in COVID-19 infections, the labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) reiterated the call for free testing of workers who are mandated to work onsite. The group also called on employees, employers and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to ensure that safety committees are operating in workplaces, health protocols are being followed and occupational safety and health (OSH) standards are being enforced.

 

“A lot of factories and workplaces are operating and numerous workers are reporting onsite under the Alert Level 3 protocol. Thus, the necessity of ensuring workplace safety. Workers should assert that OSH regulations are implemented. Hanapbuhay ito hindi hanap patay,” Rene Magtubo, PM chair explained.

 

He repeated the call of Nagkaisa chair and senatorial candidate Sonny Matula for the government to subsidize the testing of workers who have symptoms or are unvaccinated but reporting for work.

 

“Workers are trapped in a catch-22 situation that is not of their own making. Antigen tests are cheaper than RT-PCR but still too expensive for minimum wage earners who are among the working poor. There are at least a million minimum wage workers in the NCR and half a million in Calabarzon, both areas facing the brunt of the new COVID-19 wave. Once workers are positive from antigen tests, they are immediately barred from working but cannot get sickness benefits from the Employees Compensation Commission (ECC). The way out of this trap is for the government to provide free RT-PCR tests for workers,” Magtubo explained.

 

PM and Nagkaisa have been calling for “balik trabahong ligtas” since the lockdowns were relaxed in late 2020 and the economy re-opened. Senator Risa Hontiveros championed this call by filing an eponymous bill that guarantees provision of PPE’s for workers and enforcement of OSH standards. The demand for free testing however has not been heeded as the recent national budget conspicuously does not explicitly provide funds for it. Still the free tests and paid quarantine leaves can be provided as benefits from ECC, Philhealth, the Social Security System as an alternative.

 

Magtubo asked workers to collectively negotiate with employers for the provision of PPE’s, enforcement of OSH rules and the formation of safety committees. “All of these are guaranteed in the OSH Law. Workers just need to claim our rights. Ang karapatan ay ipinaglalaban. Batas ini!,” he added. 

January 7, 2022

Diversion, fake news should not distract Philhealth investigation

It is in the interest of the working class who are the real owner-beneficiaries of the health insurance fund that investigation into the whooping P15-B Philhealth scam proceed unhampered and result to the ultimate prosecution of its corrupt officials.  With the fund’s life threatened by billions of losses due to alleged corruption, so as the health security of our millions of workers especially during a pandemic.

It is for this reason that we call on Congress as well as the Executive to ensure that neither delay nor diversion affect the ongoing investigation as the Filipino people deserve truth and justice on this issue.

We are alarmed, however, that alongside the ongoing investigation is the resurgence of vicious attacks against Sen. Risa Hontiveros whose issues during her stint at Philhealth have already been cleared by the COA and the fund itself. Is it part of a diversion, or simply an increase in production of fake news from a host of click farms?

We are likewise concerned with the statements of several congressmen calling for the abolition of Philhealth by replacing it with a new one. A health crisis is certainly not a good time to kill a health insurance system. Justice and total cleansing, we contend, is what will save the system from ultimate collapse.

07 August 2020

Crimes and labor violations committed against women workers in POGO – labor group

Photo by Rappler

How fugitives walkaway ‘freely’ from China, slip into the country with the same ease under the pastillas scheme, and land into a legitimized POGO industry, pose a major concern for women in particular, and for the country in general. 

The Partido Manggagawa (PM) aired this warning in reaction to a recent Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’ (PAGCOR) report aired over the media that over 2,000 Chinese nationals who work for Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) have been deported after authorities discovered they have criminal records in China. 

“Nakakalula,” lamented PM Secretary General Judy Ann Miranda after learning about the report that of the 70,000 POGO workers in the country, 2,000 fugitives were deported back to China since January 15 after having been found to have criminal records in the mainland. 

“That’s 3 fugitives out of 10. Imagine that kind of ratio when linked to the consequent rise in crime incidents related to POGO operations in the country. That connects the dots. Numbers don’t lie,” said Miranda. 

Miranda pointed out that protection of women workers, Filipino or otherwise, should be treated as a major concern in the country after a Taiwanese POGO worker recently complained of sexual harassment in her workplace. She’s also a victim of human trafficking. 

“Likewise, our law enforcers always point to Chinese nationals whenever drug bust operations or raids on sex dens were conducted.  So whether they are linked or not, the Philippine government must press itself in knowing the facts and employ corrective measures thereafter,” argued Miranda. 

POGO operations in the country have come under close scrutiny in the continuing Senate hearings led by Senator Risa Hontiveros.  

Senator Gordon, on the other hand, raised the possibility of POGO operations being used in money laundering after the Bureau of Customs reported that millions of dollars were brought into the country in bulk by suspected gaming operators. 

The labor department, meanwhile, revealed that some 4,000 POGO workers in the country carry the same TIN number. 

“If all these reports are true then our women, even our children, are at risk of becoming victims of crimes associated with gambling and other illicit activities,” said Miranda, adding that POGO operations in the country has been blamed for the rise of prostitution and sex trafficking of both Chinese and Filipino women. 

Once such measure, Miranda said, is to stop all POGO operations in the country, replace this industry with investments in real economy, strengthen our border security with immediate reforms in the Bureau of Immigration, and compel China to do the same as regards the illegal or criminal activities of their citizens. 

Women workers are celebrating the Women’s Month by pressing more protection mechanisms for women against violence, mass layoffs, trade union repression, high prices, among others. On March 8, women members of PM and other groups are holding a creative action in Timog Circle from 8 to 10 am in Timog Circle before marching from Morayta to LRT Carriedo for a salubungan with the Gabriela contingent. Last Tuesday, women workers picketed the DOLE main office and had a dialogue with labor officials on women's rights issues in the ecozones.

05 March 2020

ABS-CBN should regularize its workers if franchise renewed—labor group

Photo from ABS-CBN

The labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) reiterated its call on the company to regularize its workers once its franchise is renewed by Congress. “We support the challenge by Senator Risa Hontiveros during the Senate hearing on the franchise of ABS-CBN for the company to improve working conditions and promote job security of its employees if the franchise is renewed,” stated Wilson Fortaleza, PM chairperson.

He added that “In the same vein, we assail ABS-CBN CEO Carlo Katigbak for refusing to commit to regularize all of its 11,071 workers as dared by Senator Hontiveros.”

The group stated that ABS-CBN should treat as kapamilya its 5,000 workers who are project-based or independent contractors by making them regular employees. “ABS-CBN of course gives mandated benefits to its non-regular workers. But the crux of the contractualization issue is that ABS-CBN—along with other broadcast firms—denies  better wages & benefits to them since they are not regular in status. In fact it is disingenuous for ABS-CBN to now express concern for its 11,071 but refuse to recognize employee-employer relationship when a few years ago contractual workers unionized in a bid to negotiate for improved wages and working conditions,” Fortaleza said.

He ended with the statement “ If anything, the Senate hearing made crystal clear that the attempt to shutdown ABS-CBN is rooted in just President Duterte’s personal grudge about non-airing of his campaign ads.”

February 24, 2020

Shutdown POGOs, protect victims of crime and labor rights violations – Partido Manggagawa

The Partido Manggagawa (PM) added its voice to the growing public clamour to shutdown the operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country, both legal and illegal. But at the same it urges the government to protect and save their workers, both foreign and local, from further injustice after having been victimized by human trafficking and other crimes committed against them by their recruiters and operators.

“Kahit saan tingnang anggulo, batay sa pagdinig sa Senado ay operasyong sindikato ang lumalabas na pag-iral ng mga POGO na ito sa ating bansa. Sino mang protektor ng operasyong ito ay dapat malantad at maparusahan,” declared PM Secretary General Judy Ann Miranda.

POGO operations in the country has come under close scrutiny from the public after news of their illegal operations, tax evasion, and the proliferation of crimes related to it such as human trafficking, sex trafficking and kidnapping, among others, began to surface one after another.

“History would tell us that high-end gambling operations, legal or not, are always accompanied by crimes especially against women as most of the victims of human trafficking, prostitution and sexual abuse are women. Whoever is allowing these things to happen should be guilty of the same crime hence must be prosecuted,” said Miranda.

The group argues that closer ties with China should not make the country more tolerant of these kinds of crimes, including violations of labor rights.

Crimes against women and violations of labor standards, Miranda stressed, have no boundaries hence the Philippine state is duty-bound to apply them to all workers, local or foreign.

“Hindi dahil malayang pinagnenegosyo ng administrasyon ang mga POGO sa bansa ay malaya na rin nilang mapagsamantalahan ang mga manggagawa,” concluded Miranda.

18 February 2020

Press Release: Cavite workers call on Congress to investigate ecozone investors

Workers embroiled in a labor dispute in a Korean-owned factory in Cavite called on Congress to investigate violations of workers’ rights and labor standards by foreign investors in economic zones. The demand by workers of Sejung Apparel Inc. coincided with a solidarity visit this morning by Sen. Risa Hontiveros to their picketline.

“When foreign investors violate our labor laws with impunity, then Filipino workers are second-class citizens in our own land. We ask Congress to make incentives to foreign investors conditional on their respect for workers’ rights,” asserted Josephine Odchimar, union president.

The proposed Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Act (CITIRA) removes incentives to foreign investors in ecozones. The Department of Finance and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority are openly debating the provisions of the bill. Labor groups on the other hand take an independent position and ask that incentives be tied to labor rights.

Odchimar added that “We welcome Sen. Risa and her staff to our picketline which has served as our home for the holidays. Similar to the story of Jesus being born in a lowly manger, we spent Christmas in a humble picketline.”

Sejung workers are demanding the release of the mandated 13^th month pay, the latest salary due workers, a stop to the removal of machines and an end to the outsourcing of production to other factories.

Meanwhile the labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) slammed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for lack of action in enforcing labor standards at Sejung.

“December 24 has come and gone but the DOLE still refuses to use it powers to enforce the payment of wages and 13^th month pay for workers of a ‘Grinch’ company. While DOLE officials in the national and regional offices are enjoying their happy holidays, Sejung workers had a sad Christmas and are facing a bleak New Year since labor standards are not being enforced,” declared Rene Magtubo, PM national chair.

Odchimar explained that DOLE had already conducted a factory inspection last December 19 and promised to issue an order if management does not release the 13^th month pay on December 24 as mandated. However, she added that DOLE did not issue an order and instead is trying to schedule another inspection.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. What’s keeping the DOLE regional office from issuing a compliance order? Even during the mediation hearings, Sejung maintained its illegal and hardline stance that it will grant the 13^th month pay in March not December. Yet the DOLE dare not lift a finger even as Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello issued press releases reminding employers about the payment of the 13^th month benefit,” Magtubo averred.

Photos of the solidarity visit can be accessed at https://www.facebook.com/donnaescueta.nano/posts/10216599085550453 and https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/10157724749314323?__xts__[0]=68.ARAFRCJop2H-p1EpVO643elmAgPyuPLojo7ntrHEok9UjAnCbDRsjazTpvQJm0pOiw3Wfm0l6iKYQ5Q03Vs7ihV5zCyKl8BgsZFOXd5pSU9fFxGrBdZ_S4GKz0Qe8yVlMYyIPvgF_i8ey4XOWl_VWQfSgq-sJFXCJ4PRVJdlEP1CgdDpj8hx3A8HLDjSdLHA440vlGYjhsarXPUVO5agzpTrGtquexNdTLPtKnD8bt6Ff5JZgoLW8cgz7GbQyrvhBL9Hld2mWolWi53ktLpYXMFCyOafGQOKwT0FoYiW0RCfqbzKtiLb13VfIPRj3XGPe_9iEzhpmb9zgFsP8u8N&__tn__=-R

December 30, 2019

DOLE slammed for inaction on 13th month pay issue of “Grinch” company in Cavite

The labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) slammed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for lack of action in enforcing the mandatory payment of the 13^th month benefit for workers of a garments factory in Cavite.

“December 24 has come and gone but the DOLE still refuses to use it powers to enforce the payment of wages and 13^th month pay for workers of a ‘Grinch’ company,” declared Rene Magtubo, PM national chair. Workers of Sejung Apparel Inc. in the First Cavite Industrial Estate have been on picket-protest since December 12.

Tomorrow, Senator Risa Hontiveros is set to visit the Sejung picketline to bring moral and logistical support to the workers.

“While DOLE officials in the national and regional offices are enjoying their happy holidays, Sejung workers had a sad Christmas and are facing a bleak New Year since labor standards are not being enforced,” Magtubo insisted.

Josephine Odchimar, president of the labor union at Sejung, stated that DOLE had already conducted a factory inspection last December 19 and promised to issue an order if management does not release the 13^th month pay on December 24 as mandated. However, she added that DOLE did not issue an order and instead is trying to schedule another inspection.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. What’s keeping the DOLE regional office from issuing a compliance order? Even during the mediation hearings, Sejung maintained its illegal and hardline stance that it will grant the 13^th month pay in March not December. Yet the DOLE dare not lift a finger even as Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello issued press releases reminding employers about the payment of the 13^th month benefit,” Magtubo averred.

Workers set up a picketline outside the factory to guard against machines being taken out of the factory and prevent a runaway shop. Sejung workers are also demanding a stop the transfer of machines and an end to subcontracting of production. “The company’s argument of lack of buyers is just an alibi. The truth is that production is being subcontracted by Sejung to other companies,” Odchimar asserted.

Workers believe management is maneuvering to bust the union. The union won the certification elections in August. The company temp closed down in October, a week after the union submitted a proposal for a collective bargaining agreement. After a month, the company reopened.

“The pattern of companies inside ecozones shutting down to bust unions is well documented. It appears that Sejung is following this modus operandi of union busting,” Magtubo asserted.

Photos of the company memo about the 13^th month pay and the workers protest can be accessed at https://www.facebook.com/partidomanggagawa/posts/10157676136334323?__xts__[0]=68.ARBGx-zVbDCc8zj4NMSQA7GQZzAcPSgrdNybQuh8TDrUfgPoGL0ifqHsC1shGb5r2mUeM6OC4LpkuDtw0LdTEh7KBQlilRY_iXcLklX-Vfq6LbKMnlp7xtpdf1JMLKpSrmYbkSeR1kwkomnr5RLkideH5PsxzoAloxtaDTdzpFDTKp4P_r4XmggowFpw-YSXCTnkmrTtD8eUslR-4IFoREjmkuHzUSd8E6lbMV1Gpp9DF69t0eZLnLiTdp_1_HXmiB4qiZiza_RhwNSXxgs9EVYTJ_o2EFKqMqtjRoEfd-SvYOgk5nkwSe_ZrGfHS-R5a6SFOAuf4E6QAF3x_cux&__tn__=-R

December 29, 2019