MANILA — Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) criticized Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa over reports that he continues to receive his salary despite allegedly not attending work without notice.

In a press statement dated December 1, KMU Chairperson Jerome Adonis called the reports “insulto sa mga manggagawa,” noting that employees in regular workplaces face immediate penalties for absences.

“Samantala, ang mga manggagawa, pag hindi pumasok automatic sinususpinde o pinakamalala’y tinatanggal,” Adonis said. He added that workers are required to file leave three days in advance even in emergencies and often endure floods, storms, and hazardous conditions just to earn enough for their families.

Adonis said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) requires employees to report for work even on holidays, warning that those who do not show up receive “no work, no pay.” He added that many workers are compelled to work even during Christmas just to secure their wages.

He also lamented that “sa kabila ng tapat na pagsusumikap ng mga manggagawa ay hindi nakabubuhay ang tinatanggap nilang sahod at pinagnanakawan pa sila ng gobyerno.”

Addressing the senator directly, Adonis said: “Kaya mahiya ka naman, Sen. Batogan! Daan-daang libo ang sinusweldo mo kada buwan. Daan-daang libo na galing sa buwis ng mga manggagawang nagkukumahog ipagkasya ang napakaliit na kita.”

He argued that elected officials should be held to the same standards as ordinary workers, saying, “Kung ayaw magtrabaho ni Bato, dapat tinatanggal yan sa pwesto!”

Adonis further claimed it would be “mas mainam pa’y sumuko na siya sa ICC at samahan ang pinakamamahal niyang si Tatay Digong,” adding that this would at least make the senator’s whereabouts known.

KMU said the only acceptable reason for dela Rosa not to attend Senate sessions is if he faces proceedings before the International Criminal Court.