Around 900 workers have been displaced following government raids on three steel manufacturing plants in Luzon and Mindanao over alleged labor, immigration, environmental and safety violations, prompting labor groups to call for immediate government assistance.
The affected facilities are Philippine Sanjia Steel Corp. in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental; Chuang Xing Steel Corp. in Magalang, Pampanga; and Davao Mighty Steel Corp. in Davao City.
Three steel plants face government investigations
Authorities first raided Philippine Sanjia Steel in May 2026, arresting 69 Chinese nationals and one Filipino. On July 19, operatives searched Chuang Xing Steel, leading to the arrest of four company officials, three Chinese nationals and one Filipino, and affecting around 300 workers as operations were temporarily suspended.
In August, authorities raided Davao Mighty Steel over allegations of manufacturing and distributing substandard reinforcing bars. The operation resulted in the arrest of 10 Chinese nationals and four Filipinos, while 174 Filipino workers were rescued from the facility.
Authorities also reported finding radioactive isotopes in the Davao plant's materials and finished steel products.
Labor groups seek assistance for displaced workers
Federation of Free Workers president Sonny Matula said employees should not bear the consequences of their employers' alleged violations.
He urged the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to determine the workers' unpaid wages and benefits and provide livelihood assistance and alternative employment opportunities.
Matula also cited Republic Act 11058, or the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law, which gives DOLE enforcement powers and requires coordination with other government agencies on workplace safety.
Meanwhile, Kilusang Mayo Uno Southern Mindanao said workers affected by the Davao raid were left facing uncertainty, with little immediate assistance or clear livelihood plans following the shutdown.
Medical monitoring and due process urged
Matula said around 100 workers initially examined for possible radiation exposure reportedly showed no acute symptoms. However, he stressed that continued medical monitoring remains necessary.
He also emphasized that both Filipino and foreign workers are entitled to labor protection and due process, regardless of nationality.
Labor groups are calling on the government to ensure that investigations into the steel companies are accompanied by concrete measures to protect affected employees, particularly those who suddenly lost their source of income.
