The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) has expressed deep concern over the fate of more than 316 to 600 employees of the Philippine Sanjia Steel Corporation, who may be affected by the ongoing investigation and possible closure of the plant.
According to FFW President Atty. Sonny Matula, they are worried about the workers’ situation, especially since many companies in Luzon have already shut down, and a manufacturing firm in Mindanao has also been impacted.
Because of this, the FFW is appealing to Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma to find ways to restore the plant’s operations and prevent workers from losing their livelihood.
Matula added that the issues raised are mainly administrative concerns involving labor standards, permits for Chinese workers, and the quality of steel products matters that should be addressed by agencies such as DOLE and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
He emphasized that the steel manufacturing industry is vital to the country’s growth, and therefore the government must safeguard not only national security but also the job security of Filipino workers.
