MANILA: Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at bolstering the rights of Filipino workers by criminalizing interference with labor unions and the harassment of workers. The proposed Senate Bill 2735, known as the Strengthening the Freedom of Association of Workers’ Act, seeks to address persistent issues despite constitutional protections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada emphasized that while Article III, Section 8 of the 1987 Constitution guarantees workers the right to form unions and associations, there are still employers who attempt to suppress these rights. The bill aims to close existing gaps in the Labor Code and reinforce workers’ constitutional rights to form unions and associations without restrictions.

The proposed measure explicitly prohibits both employers and government authorities from obstructing workers’ efforts to join unions, forcing them to renounce membership, or penalizing them for their participation in unions. It also
bans harassment or coercive interrogation of workers, organizers, or union officials based on their union affiliations. Additionally, the collection or use of personal data of workers or union members for harassment or profiling purposes is strictly prohibited under the bill.

Estrada stated that any individual found guilty of restraining, harassing, coercing, or unduly interfering with a worker or union in exercising their rights will face penalties. Upon conviction, violators could be fined a minimum of PHP100,000 or face imprisonment ranging from one to two years, or both, at the court’s discretion.