President Duterte has called on Congress to pass measures that will protect the rights of Filipino workers to security of tenure to self-organization, noting that the plight of laborers has not changed over time.
In his Labor Day message, Duterte recognized that the nation’s strength has always depended on the hard work, grit, and perseverance of the labor force.
“Every year, we set aside this day to celebrate their valuable contributions not only in the struggle to provide a better life for our people, but in building the foundations of a more promising future for succeeding generations,” he said.
However, the President expressed regret that despite the annual observance and efforts to help them, the lives and working conditions of laborers seem to have not improved.
“It is unfortunate, however, that despite this yearly observance, the plight of our workers, especially those who choose to leave their families so they may earn better compensation abroad, remains the same,” Duterte said.
“This is why my administration has implemented measures within its powers to afford full protection to labor and promote equal work opportunities for all,” he added.
Duterte called on the Congress to do their part, noting that he already did what he could by issuing last year Executive Order No. 51 which implements existing constitutional and statutory provisions against illegal contracting.
“I remain optimistic that…my counterpart in Congress will consider passing much needed legislative measures that will fully protect our workers’ rights, especially to security of tenure and self-organization,” he said.
The President hoped that the observance of Labor Day would inspire everyone to help workers who are essential in the country’s progress.
“May this solemn observance inspire all of us to work together in improving the plight of our workers by creating an environment conducive to their personal and professional growth and development,” Duterte said. (Argyll Geducos)
