Manila – During a Danish Trade Union Development Agency sponsored training on ILO Convention 190, held today at the Federation of Free Workers (FFW) headquarters in Manila, women participants from various unions within FFW expressed their enthusiastic support for Kamala Harris’ candidacy in the U.S. presidential election. The gathering underscored how Harris’ leadership could significantly impact labor rights and women’s issues on a global scale.
\”Kamala Harris’ policies not only align with our goals for workers’ rights but also significantly elevate women’s issues within the broader labor movement,” stated Union President Ma. Victoria Garzon-Bellosillo, President of the FFW Women’s Network (FWN) and head of the CPU Rank-and-File Union – FFW from Iloilo City. “We are convinced that her leadership will be crucial in eliminating violence and harassment in the workplace, which is at the heart of ILO Convention 190.”
Arlene Degayo-Golloso, FFW Board Member and President of the Ateneo de Davao Grade School Union – FFW chapter in Davao City, echoed this sentiment. “A Harris administration would not only enhance global standards for fair labor practices but also prioritize the protection and empowerment of women in workplaces, especially in the care economy,” she emphasized.
FFW Women’s Network Vice President Arta Maines, representing the United Cirtek Employees Association – FFW based in Laguna, added her perspective: “Her pro-labor stance and commitment to equitable policies would bolster industries with significant links to the U.S., such as the BPO, electronics, and garment sectors in the Philippines, while advocating for safe, violence-free workplaces.”
The participants collectively expressed their aspiration that a Harris presidency would cultivate an environment that upholds women workers’ rights, promotes anti-violence measures globally, and addresses the unique challenges faced by women in the workforce such as platform work, climate change and just transition.
In line with the objectives of ILO Convention 190, the FFW Women’s Network envisions a Harris administration as a pivotal force in constructing safer and more inclusive workplaces for women worldwide. By endorsing her vision, we reaffirm our commitment to championing labor rights and fostering gender equality across the globe.
