Church Group advocates stronger Labor Rights on International Human Rights Day

On International Human Rights Day, the Church People-Workers Solidarity (CWS), a coalition of church leaders and labor advocates in the Philippines, renewed its call for the protection of labor rights, emphasizing their role as a cornerstone of human dignity and social justice.

Under the theme “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” this year’s International Human Rights Day highlighted the universal importance of human rights in shaping a fair and equitable future.

The Church People-Workers Solidarity (CWS) echoed this message, calling attention to the persistent challenges faced by workers in the Philippines and across Asia.

In a statement, CWS highlighted pressing issues such as contractualization, suppression of union rights, and violations of collective bargaining agreements as ongoing threats to workers' dignity.

“Labor rights constitute an essential component of human rights,” said Most Rev. Gerardo A. Alminaza, D.D., Bishop of San Carlos and chairperson of CWS. “These fundamental freedoms, including the right to organize, strike, and secure regular employment, are universal. Yet, they remain stifled by anti-labor policies and practices.”

The coalition strongly condemned systemic attacks on workers, urging the government to align its labor policies with the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

CWS also called on churches and communities to amplify their advocacy for marginalized workers, asserting that the fight for labor rights is both a spiritual and moral obligation.

“Upholding human rights isn't only about addressing present injustices,” the statement said. “It’s about driving social transformation, dismantling unjust systems, and empowering marginalized communities.”

To advance these goals, CWS committed to intensifying its efforts through education campaigns, research initiatives, and fact-finding missions to document and address human rights violations. The group also stressed the importance of building robust social movements that unite church institutions and grassroots labor organizations in pursuit of lasting social justice.

The Philippines, like many countries in Asia, faces complex labor challenges, from precarious employment to limited legal protections for workers.

CWS underscored the need for international solidarity to uphold workers’ dignity and protect their God-given rights.

“Let this day remind us of the transformative power of human rights,” Bishop Alminaza said. “Together, we can create a future rooted in dignity, freedom, and justice.”