Local labor sector calls on gov’t to take stronger stand against Russian aggression

The secretary-general of the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA), a local labor rights group, has called on the national government to take a stronger stand against Russia for its atrocities against Ukraine.

Wennie Sancho, GAWA Sec-Gen, who is the lead convenor of the just-launched “We Stand With Ukraine” movement, said they are condemning the atrocious acts committed by Russian forces against the Ukrainians.

Sancho and other labor groups’ officers and representatives launched the movement this morning (April 29) during its forum and press conference at Negros Press Club in Bacolod City.

At the launching rites, he praised the valiant stand of Ukrainians, pointing out that they deserve the support and sympathy from the Filipino people.

Sancho regarded the decision made by the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte for the country to remain neutral as “weak.”

Despite Duterte’s neutral remarks on the Russian invasion, the Philippine government did condemn the Russian government by supporting a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly last February calling on the Russians to withdraw their forces from Ukraine.

However, Sancho pointed out thst the government’s decision is still not enough, and that it should take bigger steps like, for example providing humanitarian aid for the millions of displaced Ukrainian civilians or even imposing trade sanctions against Russia.

In 2020 Russia had a large net trade with the Philippines in the exports of mineral products worth $207 million, metals worth $194 million, and vegetable products worth $111 million.

“We condemn this barbaric and inhuman war launched by Russia against Ukraine,” Sancho said.

He further added that they are joining the international community in calling for an immediate ceasefire, and that the world should not allow evil to triumph.

He further added that to stand up for Ukraine is to put an end to civilian inhumanities.

“We must speak out, to be silent in the midst of this horror is a form of cowardice,” he added.* (DGB)