Pass SB1406 now

We support moves to enact into law SB1406 as it would bring workers one-step closer to the full realization of their right to self-organize enshrined in the Philippine Constitution.

As the percentage of the labor force enjoying the safety and protection of being unionized continuously declining, the urgency of enacting this bill into law becomes even more apparent.

"There should be no opposition to the bill as it would not cost a single cent for the government nor for the employers," Daniel L. Edralin, APL Chairperson said. "But its passage would go a long way in helping workers help themselves," he added.

Aside from speeding up the process of certification elections and protecting union members and leaders struggling for union recognition, SB1406 would also allow rank and file workers and supervisory-level unions in one enterprise to join the same federation.

"At a time when workers' economic, political and social rights are under attack, it is imperative that workers' capacity to advance and defend their rights and welfare be fully recognized. This bill is a step in that direction," Edralin added.

During the 12th Congress, the Lower House already passed the proposed measure only to be defeated by the Senate's inaction. Now, under the 13th Congress, the bill's counterpart measure was once again approved by the House as early as 15 November 2005 and was transmitted to and received by the Senate last 23 November 2005. It has languished in the committee level since then.

SB1406 or an Act Strengthening The Workers' Constitutional Right To Self-Organization, Amending For The Purpose Presidential Decree No. 442, As Amended, Otherwise Known As The Labor Code Of The Philippines, was filled by Senator Francis Pangilinan. It is the counterpart bill for HB01351 filled by Rep. Del de Guzman (Marikina) and Akbayan Party List Representative Mario Aguja.
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