Kawasaki Motors Philippines Corp. (KMPC) has asked the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) to declare the ongoing labor strike in its plant in Muntinlupa City as illegal.

In its petition, KMPC accused the Kawasaki United Labor Union as conducting an illegal strike since it began last May 21.

"The action violates the 'No Strike, No Lockout' clause of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed by both parties in May 2022," said KMPC in a statement.

"The law is clear: no strike should take place while good faith negotiations are ongoing, especially when both parties are still trying to settle economic issues," it said.

Kawasaki Motors Philippines said it is irresponsible on the part of the union to conduct a labor strike.

It added the strike has resulted in significant operational disruptions, loss of business opportunities, and reputational damage.

"This strike is not just illegal, it is irresponsible. It places the jobs of over a thousand workers at serious risk," said KMPC.

"If prolonged, the work stoppage could lead to serious financial losses?or worse, potential closure?jeopardizing the livelihood of nearly 1,000 individuals," it added.

In its petition, KMPC held the union leaders accountable for allegedly instigating or knowingly participating in the illegal work stoppage.

“The irresponsible actions of a few have endangered the livelihood of many,” the KMPC stated.

“This is not just a company issue. This is a workers’ issue. We call for accountability," added the management.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma had expressed concerns over the potential effects of the workers' strike at Kawasaki.

Laguesma said there is no recommendation from the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) yet for him to assume jurisdiction over the dispute. DMS