Monday, March 24, 2008 117 C. Luzon schools violate labor law By Ian Ocampo Flora
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) has initiated a campaign to inspect and compel educational institutions to comply with current labor laws.
This, after the agency found out that 117 out of the 167 schools in Central Luzon had been violating the labor code.
Labor Regional Director Nathaniel Lacambra said the campaign is now focusing on "Montessori schools" which have mushroomed across the region.
"Montessori schools are a major consideration for the campaign due to their sheer number. We are not just concentrating on educational institutions but other establishments as well," Lacambra explained.
He said the agency has found that most of the institutions it has surveyed had been violating labor laws ranging from underpayment to non-payment of wages.
Dole records showed that schools have been increasing in number every year. The labor department is set to continue the survey and release a formal report about it.
"The campaign is also in line with upholding quality education. If a teacher is well paid he would be satisfied, thus he does his job well. Parents should not just be concerned if their children are getting the best possible mentoring, they should also inquire if the teachers are well paid," Lacambra added.
The Dole is also urging teachers and school employees to report any violation of labor rules to the department for appropriate actions.
