MANILA—The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday endorsed Senate Bill 2735, known as the Strengthening the Freedom of Association of Workers Act, aimed at bolstering the rights of Filipino workers to organize and engage in union activities without fear of harassment or interference.
According to Philippines News Agency, the CHR praised the bill, introduced by Senator Jinggoy Estrada, for its comprehensive approach to safeguarding labor rights. The bill seeks to protect private sector workers and unions from any restraint, harassment, or interference while exercising their right to self-organization. “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,” stated the CHR.
The bill is seen as a critical step in strengthening legal protections for workers’ associations, crucial for improving labor conditions and advancing social progress. It is aligned with international standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 1948 Freedom of Association Convention, ensuring that workers’ rights to form and join organizations are respected without governmental interference.
Furthermore, SB 2735 addresses existing legislative gaps by expanding protections beyond those offered by the current Labor Code. It specifically targets acts of interference, harassment, and coercion by employers and public authorities that fall outside the purview of the Department of Labor and Employment. The proposed legislation also introduces penalties for violations of these protections, signaling a robust commitment to enforcing these rights comprehensively.