Groups bemoan unsolved labor killings

5 Hard-Learned Lessons Unresolved Labor Killings Expose Philippines' Freedom of Association Crisis

The recent surge in unresolved labor killings in the Philippines has exposed a deep-seated crisis regarding freedom of association. The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) reports that an alarming 105 cases of trade union killings since 2016 remain unsolved, perpetuating a culture of impunity that discourages workers from exercising their fundamental right to collective action.

Lesson 1 Justice Delayed is Justice Denied

The sheer number of unresolved cases underscores the need for prompt and effective justice. The lack of accountability in these instances creates an environment where fear prevails, ultimately hindering the exercise of freedom of association.

Lesson 2 Protection for Labor Rights Defenders Remains Inadequate

Despite promises to ensure their safety, labor rights defenders continue to face red-tagging, abduction, and enforced disappearances. This lack of protection undermines their ability to advocate for workers' rights, perpetuating a culture of fear that silences those who seek fairness.

Lesson 3 Collective Bargaining Coverage Remains Critically Low

A staggering 99% of workers remain unrepresented by unions or collective agreements, highlighting the urgent need for stronger labor organizations and effective advocacy. This lack of protection undermines workers' ability to negotiate fair wages and working conditions, exacerbating income inequality.

Lesson 4 Red-Tagging Perpetuates Fear and Undermines Labor Rights

Red-tagging not only hinders workers' efforts to secure a living wage but also links their struggles to terrorism. This perpetuates a culture of fear that silences those who seek fair compensation, further eroding labor rights.

Lesson 5 Women's Rights Deserve Dedicated Attention in Labor Advocacy

Women workers face unique challenges, including reproductive and care rights that are often overlooked by employers and policymakers. As part of the workforce, women's rights are workers' rights and human rights that require dedicated advocacy to ensure equal opportunities for all.

By acknowledging these hard-earned lessons, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable labor landscape that prioritizes freedom of association, collective bargaining, and protection for all workers, regardless of gender or sector.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.