Labor sector mourns passing of Mendoza

CEBU, Philippines - The labor movement is saddened by the death of lawyer Democrito Mendoza Sr., one of the country’s great labor leaders.

“We are in the state of mourning not only here in Cebu but in the whole nation. We urged the workers to pray for his eternal rest,” said Jose Tomongha, chairman of the Alliance of Progressive Labor- Visayas.

Partido ng Manggagawa-Cebu spokesperson Dennis Derige said they sympathize with the family and relatives of Mendoza.

“We look forward to continuously working with whoever will replace him in ALU-TUCP for the common fight against contractualization,” said Derige.

Mendoza, founder of the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, succumbed to a lingering illness last Tuesday. He was 92.

Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez, whose wife Yedda is one of Mendoza’s grandchildren, hailed Mendoza for being a true labor leader.

In a statement, Romualdez said that Mendoza has “unwaveringly and tirelessly fought for the promotion of the interests and the protection of the rights of every  Filipino laborer.”

Mendoza founded the TUCP four decades ago.

 “Lolo Quito unselfishly dedicated his life to even the playing field between employer and employees with admirable humility, passion and sincere “malasakit” towards improving the plight of our disadvantaged laborers,” Romualdez said.

 “As we take a moment to honor his death by celebrating his life and works, may we all find inspiration from his selfless public service by continuing on his legacy of showing malasakit towards the plight of Filipino workers in the country and abroad,” he added.

Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilpino president Leody de Guzman said Mendoza was considered a labor pillar here and abroad.

Jaime Paglinawan, chairman of Bayan-Central Visayas, said the death of Mendoza is a big loss to the labor sector.

Mendoza is survived by his wife, former Social Security System commissioner Marianita D. Mendoza, his 14 children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

His remains lie at the JSU-PSU Mariner’s Court at the ALU Compound in Pier 1, Cebu City.

The family has yet to announce the date of the funeral.  (FREEMAN)