Labor group eyes Pasay workers’ relief
A labor organization urged government authorities on Monday to investigate reports that local businesses are being forced to close due to security preparations for the upcoming 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.
The Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO) raised concerns following reports that several commercial establishments in Pasay City have been restricted from operating since 29 October ahead of the summit scheduled for 15 to 18 November.
"Workers are losing income not because they refuse to work, but because restrictions associated with the summit have reportedly prevented them from earning a living," SENTRO said in a statement.
"We recognize the need for security arrangements during the ASEAN Summit, but these arrangements should not come at the expense of workers' livelihoods," it added.
The labor group called on the national government and the Pasay City local government to clarify the scope of the operational restrictions and establish emergency financial assistance to cover lost wages.
SENTRO also appealed to the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) to determine whether affected employees are entitled to compensation under existing labor laws.
"If there are funds for the holding of the ASEAN Summit, funds should be made available to compensate those who lost pay because of the gathering," the group said.
"The Philippines cannot claim to be a successful host of an international summit while workers and their families are left struggling to put food on the table," it added.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that four major thoroughfares in Pasay City will be closed to traffic from 15 to 18 November to accommodate summit delegates and official convoys.
The road closures cover Atang Dela Rama, Vicente Sotto, Pedro Bukaneg and Magdalena Jalandoni streets.
To manage traffic flow, the MMDA advised southbound motorists along Roxas Boulevard to detour via EDSA, Diokno Boulevard and Macapagal Boulevard. Northbound traffic will be redirected to Seaside Boulevard, Macapagal Boulevard, EDSA and Roxas Boulevard.
The agency also issued adjusted truck routes for heavy vehicles traveling between the Port Area, Manila North Harbor and the President Sergio Osmeña Highway, urging all motorists to follow designated detour signage and directions from traffic enforcers.