As we jumpstart our journey into 2024, our valiant members and officers carry a spirit of resilience and optimism, a sentiment deeply rooted in the Filipino people.
This sentinent is anchored on our deep faith in God who gives us courage when He said, “For surely I know the plans I have for you…, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope…” (Jer 29:11 NRSV).
The past year has highlighted our interconnectedness in a global community, a reminder that “no man (or woman) is an island.” The reason why we continue to strengthen our solidarity with the ITUC, BWI, EI and InduatriALL.
The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) and its members have faced significant challenges in 2023, with substantial job losses, notably at Continental Temic in Taguig, Dana Fresh in SOCSARGEN, Duty Free Philippines, Globe Telecom, and Vishay Philippines. These setbacks highlight the challenges of rapid industrial changes and the need for just transitions in our economy.
Despite these difficulties, we are unafraid. We dare to move forward and the FFW’s determination has been unwavering. Our organizing workers into new unions continues, leading us in collective bargaining
negotiations in our new unions, i.e. J&T Express, Genosi, Viatris, SGS, Ocean Poly, among others, and advocating for worker’s rights amidst these transformations.
Additionally, the establishment of some trade union unity during the ILO-High Level Tripartite Mission and the nationwide consultations thereafter represent a major milestone for the Filipino working class. This solidarity and collective effort have garnered international recognition, as exemplified by the prestigious “George Meany-Lane Kirkland Human Rights Award” from the AFL-CIO. This award is a testament to the Filipino workers’ struggle and their commitment to fighting for justice and dignity.
Globally, the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, and between Israel and Hamas, along with the vulnerabilities in the global supply chain, have underscored the interconnected nature of our world. These challenges have shown how regional issues can have far-reaching effects, impacting economies and societies globally.
In the Philippines, the attack in a Catholic Sunday Eucharistic celebration in MSU-Marawi campus has affected Muslim-Christian relations, emphasizing the need for dialogue and integration. The FFW’s support for the Philippines joining of the International Labor Organization’s “Global Coalition for Social Justice” marks a significant step towards improving social protections and employment opportunities.
The end of the WHO’s global health emergency status for COVID-19 offers a hopeful turn towards a post-pandemic era, reminding us of the importance of global cooperation.
We do not forget. The leadership of the FFW is deeply appreciative of the contributions made by our local unions, whose remittances to our treasury are vital. Your union dues have been the cornerstone of FFW’s sustainability over the past 73 years. We are grateful!
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Danish Trade Union Development Agency (DTDA), the American Solidarity Center (SC), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for their longstanding partnership in our education and training programs. Thank you!
In addition, we are expanding our network by deepening our connections with religious institutions, such as the Diocese of Nova and in Surigao, to organize more workers.
Our collaborations with academic institutions, including the University of the Philippines and Far Eastern University, continue to flourish. Furthermore, we’re enhancing our network with the Center for Agrarian Reform.and Rural Development (CARRD) and establishing new relationships with civil society organizations, notably Empower and Transform, to enhance our outreach and impact.
As we step on the accelator into 2024, we do so with lessons learned and a renewed commitment to organizing unions, to negotiating CBAs, to initiating peaceful concerted activities and to working together for a better future.
Our collective resilience, unity, and the brave spirit of the Filipino working class will guide us through the challenges and opportunities ahead in 2024 and the coming years.
Wishing everyone a hopeful, peaceful, liberating and prosperous 2024! Godspeed to all of us!
