Workers of Philippine Gum Paste Inc (PGPI), an icing factory in Cubao, Quezon City, are now asserting their rights after the management ignored their grievances in the transfer of the factory to Candelaria, Quezon. They said that they are being forced to choose between transfering to the new factory or face getting fired.

The company first informed workers of the transfer on July 29 and later formally announced the decision on August 2 in an assembly, warning that those who do not report to the new factory starting September 2 will be considered AWOL (absent without official leave).

An AWOL designation can be used as grounds for dismissal from work, reducing their rights and benefits, and tarnishing their employment record.

Workers said the company will not provide any assistance for their relocation. They will not be provided financial support, housing or additional transportation allowance. This forced some workers to refuse the transfer.

Amid repeated violations of labor rights, workers organized and turned to the Alliance of Nationalist and Genuine Labor Organizations-Kilusang Mayo Uno (ANGLO-KMU). They discussed possible steps workers can take in relation to the case.

In cooperation with the federation, the PGPI workers demanded fair compensation for those who would not transfer with the factory in their first SENA (Single Entry Approach) Negotiating Agreement on August 14. Two weeks later, the capitalist refused the separation pay and compensation for tenure the workers presented.

On August 31, workers were no longer allowed entry into the Cubao factory. Out of the more than 200 factory workers, 30 workers were forced to resign while almost 60 workers faced the company’s refusal for their right to separation pay and others.

Apart from these, the mandated minimum wage in Quezon and the whole Region IV-A is lower ₱520, compared to the ₱645 minimum wage set for National Capital Region. The company will save significantly with this scheme of relocating their operations.

PGPI is an icing factory that manufactures and exports “sugar flowers” and other items used for cake decorations. It is owned by George Tan.