Message of Former Senator Ernesto F. Herrera, Ph.D., General Secretary, TUCP, at the PALMCO 19th Annual National Convention, 9-10 September 2010, UP SOLAIR, Quezon City

Message of
FMR. SENATOR ERNESTO F. HERRERA, Ph.D.
General Secretary, Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP)
at the PALMCO 19th Annual National Convention, 9-10 September 2010, UP SOLAIR, Quezon City

On behalf of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), I congratulate the leadership and members of the Philippine Association of Labor-Management Council, Inc. on its 19th Annual National Convention. Your gathering today is an attestation to a vibrant and robust association that grapples with several administrations, the not-so-desirable impact of globalization, economic downturn and recovery, among others. You have moved on. In the process, you have grown as a more established association.

However, the current situation is quaint, yet nothing close to that of the past. More than ever, the challenges at the workplace –growing demands for more ecologically-responsible modes of production, sustainable and remunerative employment, healthy business competition resulting from a borderless economy, increasing economic divide among sectors and countries, burgeoning number of workers and their families sliding into the informal economy, etc. –are mounting. These cannot be solved by “business as usual” anymore.

Your convention’s theme “The PALMCO and LMC – Reaching Upward and Outward” represents a fitting response to the current times, a time of renewed hopes with the new government and dedicated leadership in labor administration that pledges and is actively implementing necessary labor reforms.

For TUCP, PALMCO, being representatives of labor and management, is in a good position to bring the welfare of workers UPWARD! Upward, in terms of higher productivity, improved competitiveness, living wages, safer and healthier working conditions, and harmonious labor relations, etc.

And REACHING OUTWARD would mean spreading inclusivity. It means inclusivity in sharing the fruits of economic growth, broad consultation, secured employment; better social protection, especially for the most vulnerable; and greater respect for core labor standards.

“Reaching Upward and Outward” should mean “raising all boats” — or improving business viability while promoting decent work, or sharing gains equitably.

We can be partners in ensuring and in achieving all of these –for workers, business, and the country –a certainty. Are you ready for this challenge?

My best wishes to everyone!