TUCP calls for probe on presence of illegal foreign workers

THE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) is calling on Congress to immediately conduct legislative inquiries on the continued presence of foreigners illegally employed in the country.

The labor group said there is already a need for Congress to intercede in the issue since many workers are affected by their presence.

"We urge the Senate and the House of Representatives to act on their pending resolutions calling for a probe in aid of legislation on the matter," said TUCP spokesperson Alan Tanjusay in a statement.

He noted how Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago and TUCP party-list Representative Raymond Mendoza filed Senate Resolution 288 in December 2013 and House Resolution 974 on February 2014, respectively, both calling for an inquiry on the controversy.

However, Tanjusay noted that no hearing was called by either chamber of Congress since then.

The call comes after several foreign nationals, mostly Chinese, were arrested in Davao City after being found working without valid working permits last month.

Back in December 2013, more than 200 foreign workers employed in construction sites in Bataan and Batangas were also arrested and deported after they were discovered to have without working permit.

Tanjusay said it is unacceptable that domestic laws continue to be violated with the presence of foreigners allegedly working without valid working permits.

"There is indeed a clear, continuing and growing violation of our domestic laws. This undermines the job security in the country, as they compete with the already limited jobs generated for the Filipinos in our homeland," said Tanjusay.

Tanjusay said the presence of the illegal foreign workers ultimately forces local job seekers with no choice but to either seek employment abroad or just remain unemployed.

"We clearly reiterate that TUCP is not against the entry of foreign workers in the country, but of the adverse impact on our very own workers, who are being deprived of potential employment and livelihood opportunities," Tanjusay said.

To note, one of the requirements in getting an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is the determination of the Labor Secretary that there is no Filipino national who is competent, able and willing to do the job for which the services of the applicant is desired. (HDT/Sunnex)