Government to ban Philippine Airlines strike

The Philippines Government plans to ban Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines' (FASAP) plans to launch strike action if the union fails to reach an agreement with Philippine Airlines (AFP, 01-Oct-2010). Labour Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz stated the ban would force the two to continue negotiations and, if an agreement is still not reached, she will make a final decision on the dispute. FASAP Vice President Andy Ortega stated the union would respect Ms Baldoz decision, but called on her to resolve the issue "fair and fast". Government spokesperson Edwin Lacierda stated the government would still consider implementing an open skies policy if talks fail (Manila Times, 02-Oct-2010). Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) plans to meet with PAL and FASAP on 05-Oct-2010.

Philippines Government: "We are [looking] after the interests of the riding public. PAL is still the national carrier and there is the national interest to protect," Rosalinda Baldoz, Labor Secretary. Source: AFP, 01-Oct-2010.