MANILA, Philippines - A labor organization on Tuesday bared that there are around 3,000 Chinese illegally working in multi-national private contractor in Bataan and Batangas.
At the same time, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines is alarmed over the phenomenon and its implication to employment opportunities for Filipino workers.
"The TUCP is gravely concerned over reports of foreigners, notably, Chinese nationals, particularly in the construction industry, allegedly working without the required government working permit. This phenomenon has very serious adverse implications not only in the local construction industry but also in the current unemployment and underemployment situation in the country. If this phenomenon is not addressed immediately, it will undermine the entire job security in our country," Gerard Seno, executive vice president of the Associated Labor Unions-TUCP, said.
Seno said the scheme is proliferating with unscrupulous foreign contractors circumventing the law by applying for 300 work permits but actually employs hundred other foreign workers.
Weak enforcement and lack of enforcers of labor laws allow the issue to persist, he added.
"The gravity of the situation calls for the Bureau of Immigration, the municipal and city mayors, and the regional labor officers to step in and assert government power and authority the soonest time possible. We call on government agencies to enforce immigration and labor laws not only to protect Filipino workers but also free the Chinese nationals from the bondage of this worst form of modern-day slavery," Seno said.
Under the existing labor law, foreigners who intend to work in the country must first secure an Alien Employment Permit from the Department of Labor and Employment, the Bureau of Immigration and the Professional Regulatory Commission.
If the skill they applied for is unavailable in the labor market and if applicant's reputation is without question, foreigners who wish to work may be given the AEP.