Phl pushes for retention of GSP status

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is pushing for the retention of its status as Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary as the country gave assurances it is stepping up efforts in promoting human and labor rights.

The Philippines is subject of an earlier petition for suspension of US GSP status due to the government’s alleged failure to uphold internationally recognized workers’ rights.

The Philippine embassy in Washington DC said Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz pushed for the retention of the Philippines’ status as a beneficiary of the GSP during her recent meetings with officials of the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR).

The GSP aims to promote economic growth in beneficiary countries by providing duty-free entry for their products.

Baldoz, who was on official visit in the US last week, reported the progress made by the Philippine government in upholding labor rights and pursuing legislative reforms in labor administration.

According to the embassy, the Philippines earlier petitioned by the International Labor Rights Forum for suspension of GSP status due to the government’s alleged failure to uphold internationally recognized workers’ rights.

Baldoz also assured Deputy United States Trade Representative Ambassador Demetrios Marantis that the country is actively prosecuting those responsible for acts of violence against labor union activists, leaders and members. “Our court has recently convicted four accused of killing and we are closely monitoring the other cases pending in various courts and agencies to see to it that they lead to their rightful conclusion,” Baldoz said.

Baldoz likewise cited the government’s efforts to pursue changes in labor administration through legislative reform measures.

Baldoz expressed optimism that the Philippines will retain its GSP status given the substantial progress that the Philippine government is making in addressing labor issues.

Baldoz together with Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Cuisia Jr. also met with US Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis to discuss USDOL-supported projects that benefit Filipino workers. –Pia Lee-Brago (The Philippine Star)