The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) is calling on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to conduct an urgent hearing within 24 hours to review and correct deficiencies in the operations of Philippine Sanjia Steel Corporation, following its closure and ongoing investigation.
According to FFW President Atty. Sonny Matula, if occupational safety is the basis for shutting down the plant, DOLE must expedite the review so management can quickly identify and fix the shortcomings.
Matula added that although more than 100 individuals have already been examined by the Department of Health, no radioactive effects have been found to impact their health. He stressed that while the company has yet to resume operations, Sanjia Steel management must provide immediate assistance to employees affected by the work stoppage.
The labor leader also revealed that FFW continues to coordinate with DOLE in Manila to ensure temporary aid programs such as TUPAD and other emergency assistance are extended to workers until the plant’s operations normalize.
