LABOR group Kilusang Mayo Uno-Southern Mindanao Region (KMU-SMR) condemned Franklin Baker Inc., a Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur-based manufacturer of coconut products after the dismissal of around 3,200 workers.
In a statement on Tuesday, KMU-SMR revealed they received a report that the workers were “indefinitely dismissed” via a Facebook group chat message on Oct. 3.
“KMU-SMR strongly calls on Franklin Baker to genuinely address the workers’ concerns and clarify their status,” it stressed.
According to the group, the management did not explain the workers’ dismissal, which will “exacerbate the economic woes” of the employees.
“We also call on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to immediately mediate on this matter and provide the necessary material support and legal assistance for dismissed Franklin Baker workers,” it added.
The group cited the Labor Code of the Philippines, that employers must promptly “notify their employees of any suspension or termination and explain the reasons thereof.”
TIMES tried to reach the company through email and Messenger but has yet to receive a response as of press writing.
The Public Employment Service Office of Matanao on Wednesday posted on Facebook calling the attention of workers affected by the shutdown to visit the office and bring their company IDs.
