GOING into the 40th day of the picket in its plant in Muntinlupa City, Kawasaki Motors Philippines Corporation (KMPC) has asked the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) to declare as illegal the ongoing labor strike.
In its Petition to Declare Illegal Strike, KMPC accused the Kawasaki United Labor Union (KULU) of conducting an illegal strike since it began last May 21.
“The action violates the ‘No Strike, No Lockout’ clause of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed by both parties in May 2022,” said KMPC in a statement.
“The law is clear: no strike should take place while good faith negotiations are ongoing, especially when both parties are still trying to settle economic issues,” it added.
Aside from disregarding CBA provisions, management said it is irresponsible on the part of the union to conduct a labor strike because it has already resulted in significant operational disruptions, loss of business opportunities, and reputational damage.
“This strike is not just illegal, it is irresponsible. If prolonged, the work stoppage could lead to serious financial losses — or worse, potential closure — jeopardizing the livelihood of nearly 1,000 individuals,” said KMPC.
In its petition, KMPC held the union leaders accountable for allegedly instigating or knowingly participating in the illegal work stoppage.
Thus, the company sought the dismissal of the union officers responsible for leading the work stoppage.
“The irresponsible actions of a few have endangered the livelihood of many,” the KMPC stated.
“This is not just a company issue. This is a workers’ issue. We call for accountability,” added the management.
