SEE: Workers’ Reality in Sakamoto International Packaging Corporation

The Young Christian Workers (YCW) began contact-building with the workers of Sakamoto International Packaging Corporation in 2024 and formally started organizing efforts in early 2025. For years, these workers have been the backbone of the company—faithfully dedicating 5 to 14 years of their lives to keep production running. Yet despite their long service, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment, they continue to be denied their basic right to security of tenure. Instead of being recognized as regular employees, they are unjustly classified as “agency workers,” stripping them of dignity, stability, and the benefits they rightfully deserve.

When the workers filed a Petition for Certification of Election (PCE) at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to form their union, the company denied responsibility by claiming there was “no employer-employee relationship.” This is a blatant denial of the workers’ contribution and a clear violation of their rights.

It is the workers who sustain production every single day — not the agency, not the company executives.

After the PCE was denied, the company began a pattern of harassment and intimidation against workers, especially those suspected of being union leaders and members.

One example is the case of Mr. Nonito Morales, who has faced consecutive suspensions this year:

• May 21, 2025 — 5-day suspension, charged with “AWOL”
• June 13, 2025 — 15-day suspension, charged with “Refusal to Obey Company Policy”
• September 15, 2025 — 30-day suspension, charged with “Insubordination” for a disapproved leave

Because of these unjust suspensions, Nonito has been left without income to cover his family’s daily needs — food, rent, transportation, and utilities.

JUDGE: A Clear Pattern of Harassment and Union Suppression

These disciplinary actions occurred during the union formation process, clearly showing a deliberate attempt to intimidate and discourage workers from organizing.

This is an act of union busting and unfair labor practice (ULP) as stated under Article 259 of the Philippine Labor Code, which prohibits interference, restraint, or coercion of employees in the exercise of their right to self-organization.

This attack on workers’ rights violates both:

• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) – recognizing the right to form and join trade unions
• 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIII, Section 3 – guaranteeing workers’ rights to security of tenure, humane working conditions, and freedom of association

ACT: Together, Let’s Fight Contractualization and Defend Workers’ Dignity

As Young Christian Workers, we believe that work is more than a job — it is a vocation and a dignity. No worker should be treated as disposable.

We call on all YCW movements, organizations, and friends around the world to:

• Stand in solidarity with the Sakamoto Workers’ Union
• Defend the right to organize and the right to regular and decent work
• Raise our collective voice against unjust labor practices

Send your messages of support and encouragement:

• philycw@yahoo.com.ph
• iycwaspac.org@gmail.com

Support the Solidarity Fund for suspended and displaced workers, such as Nonito Morales. Your contribution will help sustain their families and their fight for justice.

Donation Channels

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)

• Account Name: Young Christian Workers of the Philippines Inc.
• Account Number: 3063-5679-72
• Address: Zone 73, 1585 Gen. Luna St, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila
• SWIFT Code: BOPIPHMM

BDO Unibank

• Account Name: International Young Christian Workers Asia Pacific Inc.
• Account Number: 002630127717
• Address: 263 Paco – A. Linao Street, Paco, Manila, Philippines
• SWIFT Code: BNORPHMMXXX