Senator Raffy Tulfo is pushing for a Senate investigation into what he described as “inhumane treatment” of workers in two major canning factories in Navotas City.
Tulfo, vice chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment, conducted surprise inspections to assess working conditions in local factories.
His first stop was a corned beef manufacturing plant, where he was approached by employees during their break.
Workers complained about the factory’s “pakyawan system,” which allegedly forces them to work 12-hour shifts for the equivalent of minimum wage.
Upon entering the plant, Tulfo observed extremely loud machinery with no ear protection provided to the workers and noted the stifling heat inside the facility, citing the absence of proper ventilation and an overwhelming foul odor.
Officials from the Bureau of Fire Protection, who accompanied the senator, discovered expired fire extinguishers and an emergency fire hose that was inaccessible and not connected to a water supply.
Tulfo then proceeded to a sardine canning factory, which appeared more organized and relatively cleaner, but also had poor ventilation.
In the facility’s machine repair shop, Tulfo found parts of industrial machines scattered on the floor and outdated equipment with no maintenance records.
He also observed that a worker operating machinery had no personal protective equipment or safety gear.
While conducting his rounds, Tulfo’s staff spoke with longtime workers who said they are still paid below minimum wage despite decades of service.
The senator urged management to implement a progressive wage system that reflects company growth and employee loyalty and emphasized that profits should translate into better working conditions and fair compensation.
Tulfo said he will call for a formal Senate inquiry to address the alleged labor rights violations and unsafe practices in the canning industry.
He vowed to hold accountable those found neglecting the welfare and dignity of Filipino workers.