MANILA – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Wednesday it supports the filing of a bill that safeguards the fundamental rights of Filipino workers and promotes fair labor practices.
Senate Bill (SB) 2735, also known as the Strengthening the Freedom of Association of Workers Act, was filed by Senator Jinggoy Estrada to prohibit restrain, harassment or interference with private workers, unions, or labor organizations in exercising their right to self-organization.
The bill heightens legal protections for workers’ rights to association, acknowledging their role in improving labor conditions and promoting peace and progress.
"The Commission commends SB 2735 as it reinforces the implementation of Article III, Section 8 of the 1987 Constitution which ensures that the right to form unions, associations, or societies cannot be restricted," the human rights body said in a statement.
"It adheres to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms everyone’s right to peaceful assembly in Article 20 and to join trade unions in Article 23. The bill also aligns with the 1948 Freedom of Association Convention which guarantees workers’ rights to form and join organizations without government interference," it added.
The bill addresses gaps in the current legal framework that are not fully covered by existing laws such as the Labor Code.
It targets interference, harassment and coercion by employers and public authorities, including acts beyond the jurisdiction of the Department of Labor and Employment and introduces penalties for violations. (PNA)
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