MANILA, Philippines— Senator Raffy Tulfo is seeking a Senate investigation into two canning factories in Navotas City following surprise inspections that revealed alleged labor rights violations, including the use of a controversial “pakyawan system” and substandard working conditions.

Tulfo, who serves as Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment, conducted unannounced visits to two well-known canning facilities — one manufacturing corned beef and the other sardines — to assess the welfare of factory workers.

In his first stop, Tulfo was approached by employees of a corned beef plant during their break. 

Workers claimed they are subjected to the “pakyawan system,” a piece-rate scheme that reportedly forces them to work up to 12 hours for a wage that only meets the legal minimum, if not less. Despite working beyond regular hours, they said they incur wage deductions and do not receive proper overtime compensation.

Inside the facility, Tulfo observed alarming safety lapses. Workers operating heavy machinery lacked basic protective equipment like earplugs, while the senator himself noted the unbearable heat and foul odor due to poor ventilation. Personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), who accompanied Tulfo, discovered expired fire extinguishers and an emergency hose that was inaccessible and not connected to any water source.

He likewise said that the second factory, a sardines cannery, appeared more organized but still fell short of occupational safety standards. Tulfo noted poor ventilation and a non-functioning ceiling fan. In the machine repair area, he found outdated equipment without maintenance records and safety gear absent among machine operators.

Tulfo, however, did not disclose the names of the factories.

Several long-time workers confided to Tulfo’s staff that they have been earning below the mandated minimum wage for decades. They also decried the practice of being charged for extra uniforms — items they believe should be provided by the company for free.

Angered by the reports and conditions he witnessed, Tulfo urged management to implement a progressive wage system that aligns with the company’s profits and growth. 

He noted that workers, especially those who have stayed loyal to the company for years, deserve fair treatment and a livable wage.