Rights of Labor Organizations
- Right to collective bargaining with employers.
- Purpose includes seeking better working and living conditions, fair wages, and shorter working hours.
- Aims to promote the material, social, and moral well-being of members.
- Registration cannot be denied except if the organization seeks to undermine the government or violate Philippine laws.
- Registered organizations are entitled to all legal rights and privileges.
Registration Procedure
- Application filed with the Secretary of Labor.
- Must be accompanied by a copy of the constitution and by-laws.
- Secretary of Labor conducts an investigation on the applicant's activities.
- Registration fee is five pesos.
- Permit lasts for two years, renewable for additional two-year periods upon payment of a three peso renewal fee.
Requirements and Compliance
- Registered organizations must keep member lists and meeting minutes.
- Annual report on fiscal and other activities must be submitted within 30 days after each anniversary of permit issuance.
- Failure to comply can lead to revocation of the permit.
- The Secretary of Labor or authorized agents can inspect activities and records to ensure compliance.
Prohibitions and Penalties
- Intimidation or coercion to prevent employees, laborers, or tenants from joining legitimate labor organizations is prohibited.
- Dismissal or threat of dismissal for union membership is punishable.
- Violators are guilty of a felony.
- Penalties include imprisonment of up to one year, fines of up to one thousand pesos, or both, at the court’s discretion.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.