Big business groups rally behind PAL

MANILA, Philippines - Some of the country’s biggest business groups yesterday expressed solidarity with Philippine Airlines (PAL) as they joined calls for swifter and more decisive government action to resolve the standoff between the embattled flag carrier and its separated workers.

Federation of Philippine Industries Inc. (FPI) chairman Jesus Arranza said the current problems plaguing PAL, particularly the recent blocking of one of its trucks by dismissed workers, “is not conducive to business,” as this could discourage investors.

He urged government, particularly the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to ensure that the rights of businesses are protected in the same way as it accords protection to workers.

“We’re only asking for fair play. Government shouldn’t allow ‘tyranny of the minority’ which is currently happening at PAL. As Mayor Lim once said, ‘the law should be applied to all, or not at all,” he stressed.

For his part, PCCI president Francis Chua said his group wants an immediate resolution of the dispute between PAL and its former workers, citing that industrial peace is key to success in any business.

“PCCI is definitely supporting business and industry, but we must also look at the interest of the labor sector. Labor is an indispensable element in wealth formation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the FFCCCI appealed to law enforcement agencies to exert all efforts to prevent potential clashes between PAL and its former employees as the conflict is triggering anxiety among local and foreign investors.

“We’re requesting authorities to take a more direct hand in resolving the impasse before things get out of control. The recent turn of events where former PAL workers resorted to harassment and intimidation tactics at their picket line, impeded the airline’s operations,” said FFCCCI president Tan Ching.

The group said businesses recognize workers’ right to air their grievances, but said it hopes employees are also aware that employers have rights, too. The FFCCCI said it wishes the problem would be resolved soon like what the Australian government had done in the case of its flag carrier Qantas Airlines.

“A quick resolution of the dispute at PAL would certainly be more conducive to the country’s business climate,” he added.

Earlier, PAL called on business groups to collectively appeal for better protection of businesses which are prevented from freely pursuing their trade.

PAL said it is in the best interest of all private businesses, big or small, to protect themselves against harassment like illegal blockades by former workers who have been validly and legally dismissed.