In absence of any recovery workers in the Philippines textiles, apparel and leather goods industries fear losing their jobs in the next six months. Over 20,000 workers have been laid-off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On 10 June, the clothing and textile industry tripartite council met to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the textile and garment sector in the Philippines. The massive job displacement, loss of income and reduction of working hours due to lack and cancellation of orders are pressing issues.
According to employers’ organization Confederation of Wearable Exporters of the Philippines, more than 30 percent of employees at their member companies have been retrenched due to factory closures as many contracts and orders have been canceled and financial liquidity is running low.
Unions are demanding that the government and employers come up with immediate and appropriate measures to prevent more job losses and preserve workers’ income. Income support and assistance to the affected workers needs to be extended by the government, especially for those who remain temporary unemployed.
The unions also stress that safety and health protocols need to observed to ensure a safe workplace.
