Dock workers unite, seek DOLE's help on port violations
Dock workers in Iloilo port has now sought intervention of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) amid complaints of unfair labor practices here.
With findings of three supposed violations on government-mandated general labor standards, the workers' plight stemmed from an earlier complaint lodged by the group primarily on overtime pay complaints.
In an inspection result, DOLE Inspector Lorraine Villegas reported that the workers in the "PPA Special Take-over Unit" are faced underpayment of wages including "piece-rate workers." There is also purported underpayment on regular days and special holidays and non-granting of paternity leave benefits affecting some employees.
As for occupational safety and health standards, DOLE in its report disclosed the lack of a "safety committee" and non-submission of annual medical reports and accident/illness reports.
The findings were explained to the workers through its representative, one Jonalyn Malaga. A similar attempt was made to the management however a document obtained by The News Today (TNT) showed refusal from the management side to accept such.
On record as the "Owner/manager" is Fernando Claveria with "arrastre services" as nature of business.
The overtime pay complaints of the workers was formalized in a memorandum sent by Felicisimo Guyapa Jr., cargo handling supervisor to the management.
In a two-page letter obtained by TNT, attention was particularly called on Julieta Monserate of PPA Iloilo.
"It has recently come to the attention of the undersigned that arbitrary and unjustified reduction of overtime pay for STU personnel has again observed every payday. Not only because there are complaints received from others affected but the undersigned himself has been a victim recently," the letter began. "Is it justified to deny payment to overtime services already rendered, supported by prior approval from an immediate superior and finally by the STU manager? In this case, who is of higher authority, the Port Manager or the RMD Manager? Would it be possible to demand explanation or reasons for such reductions?"
Claveria in a corresponding memorandum to the Port District Manager submitted the DOLE's findings while adding, "for the other violations, the same shall be addressed at our level upon submission of the details of the complaints of the inteviewed STU-IRW employees by the labor inspector.."