After a year, Philippine Span Asia Carrier Corp workers successfully negotiated and won their rights in their collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The Samahan ng Manggagawa sa PSACC-National Federation of Labor Unions-Kilusang Mayo Uno (SMPSACC-NAFLU-KMU) and the company management signed the agreement last week of October.

“After long running negotiations, we still peacefully concluded our CBA,” the union said. The union leadership thanked the support and guidance of the federation, NAFLU-KMU, in the negotiation.

The negotiation started in November 2023 after the previous agreement expired in October 2023. The union gained wage increases, additional benefits such as longevity pay and other benefits in the new CBA.

The union faced various management attempts to derail the negotiation and weaken the unity of the workers. Management plotted a “sportfest” where they spent money on uniforms, food, and other treats to distract the workers and weaken their participation in the negotiation. The company also used various tactics to delay the negotiation.

However, the union was resolute when the negotiation did not progress and declared “no resetting” to give the union panel a chance to consult with the higher management. Following this, the union held meetings and planned their collective action.

When the capitalist refused significant concessions in the negotiation, the union took their fight to the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Board (RCMB) and the Department of Labor and Employment. Through their persistent efforts, they achieved some victories.

However, the union believes that “if the unities and plan were implemented, we would have gained more victories” in the negotiation for the new CBA.