PNP tells KMU it is not anti-worker

April 29, 2019

Police General Oscar Albayalde on Monday debunked the claim of militant group Kilusang Mayo Uno ( KMU) that the Philippine National Police ( PNP) is anti-worker.

In a press conference, Albayalde said KMU is urging employees to conduct rallies against their companies and this is why investors are going away which resulted in loss of jobs.

“How can they say that we are anti-worker? Maybe they are the one who are anti-worker. You know why? This one is for sure if you are investor, why does the investor leave our country? KMU will enter (their companies) and will instigate union and then they will rally. The investor will lose interest and will just go back home. Who will lose their job? The Filipino,” he said.

“This is what they are doing, they instigate the workers… Then they will put the blame on us why the investors are leaving. Then they are trying to blame the government why we don’t have investment. How can you invest here? If you are investing billions of dollars here then the workers will be instigate by the KMU. Let’s wake up,” he said.

The PNP chief warned the public there is possibility some rebels may join the rallies on Labor Day, May 1 and take advantage on the situation.

“Let this be a warning for our people who will join the rally. Not all of it are cause-oriented, some group will only instigate (trouble). I am sure, some of them are hiding firearms,” said Albayalde.

“What they want is for some to be hurt. That will not be them but some (who will join) and they will take advantage of that situation,” he added.

He said militant and cause-oriented groups often initiate protests and public assemblies during Labor Day though it is supposed to be celebrated to pay tribute to Filipino workforce.

“Consistent with national policy, the PNP will support all lawful and peaceful activities in commemoration of Labor Day, but only within the bounds the law,” Albayalde said in a statement.

“A sizable security contingent will be fielded to ensure order and security in all places of engagement. The policy of maximum tolerance will be strictly observed by police security forces,” he said.

Albayalde said the National Capital Region Police Office will be fielding more than 3,000 personnel. Ella Dionisio/DMS