FASAP Says PAL Insincere with Talks, May Likely Push Strike Plans

September 14, 2010, 2:43pm
Manila Bulletin

MANILA, Philippines (PNA) — The Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP) warned the planned strike will push through if Philippine Airlines remain unfazed with their policy on retirement age of their cabin crew.

We will not settle with their offer, FASAP President Bobby Anduiza said during their attendance at the hearing of labor concerns between national carrier and its employees.

He said they can see the insincerity of PAL, especially they refuse to change the company's provisions on retirement age, among other management concerns.

DoLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz assured that both parties, especially its flight attendants who announced an impending strike amidst declining influx of tourism in the country.
The hearings primarily targets to prevent a strike that can impair the operation of the country's flag carrier.

Last week, the 1,600-strong PAL crew and members of FASAP announced they have submitted a notice of strike before the Labor Department pointing to alleged discriminatory policies of the airline.
The PAL however said that the retirement age that FASAP had been contesting is part of their collective bargaining agreement (CBA) since 2000.

DoTC Jose de Jesus said the government has contingency measures should FASAP push through with their planned strike.

Management of PAL likewise assured the riding public of continued and unhampered service despite a notice of strike filed by its cabin crew union.