On December 17, capitalist Nexperia Philippines Inc. fired four officials of the Nexperia Philippines Inc. Workers’ Union-National Federation of Labor Unions-Kilusang Mayo Uno (NPIWU-NAFLU-KMU). The illegal dismissal is in retaliation to the workers’ submission of a “notice of strike” on December 10 due the company’s delay and deadlock in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for almost a year.

According to the union, the capitalist used the pretext of “obstructing” the entry and exit of products from the company to fire them. Contrary to this, the officials were simply providing updates to the members about issues related to the CBA during the incident the Nexperia management cited.

“The actions of Nexperia show ill intent, especially during the CBA negotiations, indicating a deliberate step to weaken the union,” NPIWU stated. They believe this is part of the overall strategy and series of attacks by the capitalist on the union and the workers’ right to organize.

Amid all these challenges, the union declared that they will continue to fight for the rights of the workers and push for a fair CBA. NPIWU is pushing for a ₱50 daily wage increase, from the company’s offer of a ₱17 daily wage increase and other rights.

NAFLU-KMU condemned Nexperia Philippines’ attack on the workers. “We challenge the management of Nexperia Philippines Inc. to reverse the illegal decision and respect the rights of the workers,” the federation said. They added that the layoffs were not only an attack on Nexperia workers but on all workers and their right to unionize.

The federation urged all Nexperia workers to unite and go on strike to defend their rights and demand higher wages. “We also call on other unions, workers in various sectors, and progressive organizations to join this fight against union busting and capitalist exploitation,” added NAFLU-KMU.