[APWSLMembers 163] Toyota dispute continues

[Oidon]

IMF / News article

http://www.imfmetal.org/main/index.cfm?n=47&l=2&c=13324

Toyota dispute continues

IMF to take action against Toyota, after the company fails once more to
restore the rights of Filipino workers dismissed in 2001 for supporting
the establishment of their union.

PHILIPPINES: After months of difficult negotiations, the Toyota Motor
Philippines Corporation has again failed to make a satisfactory offer to
the Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation Workers’ Association (TMPCWA).
The situation has been further complicated by a second certification
election held at the plant today, February 16.
The TMPCWA first sought certification as the bargaining agent at the
plant in February 1999, a move vigorously opposed by the company.
Eventually certified in October 2000, the TMPCWA submitted a collective
bargaining proposal to the company. The company once again appealed the
certification. During the hearing the workers staged a peaceful protest.
In response the company dismissed 227 union officers and members.

Despite a Supreme Court decision and International Labour Organisation
(ILO) rulings in the workers’ favour, the company continues to overlook
the workers’ rights. The company’s most recent offer includes
compensation and training but refuses the reinstatement of the dismissed
workers, to the dissatisfaction of the TMPCWA.

A second certification election, held on February 16, to consider a
petition for an alternative union to become the workers’ bargaining
agent has further complicated the matter. The IMF is now taking steps to
increase the pressure on Toyota for the restoration of the workers’
fundamental rights.

[February 16, 2006] JN