Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.

Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

"Sister Stella L" Film Reflection: Labor Rights and Social Justice in the
Philippines

"Sister Stella L," directed by Mike De Leon, is a classic Filipino film that delves into
the turbulent world of labor unions and social activism during the Marcos
dictatorship era. This reaction paper seeks to explore the Philippine Labor Code's
implications through the lens of the film, shedding light on labor rights, workers'
struggles, and the fight for social justice in the Philippines.

Labor Rights in the Philippines:

The Philippine Labor Code (Presidential Decree No. 442) serves as the
primary legislative framework governing labor relations in the country. Enacted in
1974, it outlines the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees,
aiming to create a harmonious and equitable work environment. It is within this
context that "Sister Stella L" unfolds, as it portrays the challenges faced by labor
activists in advocating for the rights of workers.

Sister Stella L and Labor Activism:

The film centers around Sister Stella Legaspi, a Catholic nun who becomes
deeply involved in labor activism. Her character represents the countless individuals
and groups who fought for workers' rights during a time of political turmoil and
oppression. Through her character, the film highlights the critical role of civil society
in advocating for labor rights when legal channels are insufficient.

Workers' Struggles and Unions:

"Sister Stella L" depicts the struggles of factory workers who are subjected to
oppressive working conditions and low wages. These workers find hope and
inspiration through the labor union, which becomes a vehicle for collective action
and a means to demand better treatment from their employers. The film effectively
illustrates the importance of unions as a tool for workers to assert their rights,
negotiate for better conditions, and challenge unjust labor practices.

The Philippine Labor Code recognizes the right of workers to form and join
unions under Article 243, emphasizing their role in collective bargaining and dispute
resolution. "Sister Stella L" underscores the significance of these provisions by
highlighting the transformative potential of organized labor movements in
advocating for workers' interests.

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Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.
Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

Employer-Employee Relations:

The film also delves into the complex dynamics of employer-employee

relations. Sister Stella's encounters with factory owners and managers reveal the
stark disparities in power and privilege that often exist in the workplace. The
Philippine Labor Code aims to strike a balance between the interests of employers
and employees, but the film serves as a reminder that these interests can
frequently clash, especially when the rights of workers are disregarded.

The Importance of Fair Wages:

Fair wages and economic justice are central themes in "Sister Stella L." The
film highlights the desperation of workers who struggle to make ends meet and are
often unable to provide for their families despite working long hours. The Philippine
Labor Code, under Article 97, mandates the payment of fair and equitable wages,
but the film underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring that workers receive
just compensation for their labor.

Social Justice and Activism:

"Sister Stella L" portrays the larger struggle for social justice in the
Philippines. The film takes place during a tumultuous period in the country's history
when civil liberties were curtailed, and activism was met with repression. Sister
Stella and her fellow activists symbolize the resilience and determination of
individuals who are willing to risk everything for the sake of justice, including their
own safety and freedom.

The Right to Strike:

One of the most significant moments in the film is the depiction of a workers'
strike, a powerful tool used by labor unions to push for their demands. The
Philippine Labor Code recognizes the right to strike under certain conditions, as
outlined in Article 263. "Sister Stella L" captures the emotional intensity and
sacrifices associated with striking, as workers face not only the threat of job loss
but also physical violence and harassment from security forces and hired goons.

Government's Role and Responsibility:

The film highlights the role of the government in labor relations. Government
agencies, such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), are

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Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.
Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

responsible for ensuring that labor laws and regulations are enforced. However,
"Sister Stella L" portrays a government that is often complicit in protecting the
interests of the elite and powerful, rather than the rights of workers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, "Sister Stella L" offers a compelling portrayal of labor struggles

and activism in the Philippines, set against the backdrop of the Marcos dictatorship
era. Through its characters and storyline, the film explores the themes of labor
rights, workers' struggles, and social justice, raising important questions about the
effectiveness of the Philippine Labor Code in protecting the rights and well-being of
workers.

The film reminds us that labor rights and social justice are not static
achievements but ongoing battles that require the collective efforts of workers,
activists, civil society, and responsible governance. It serves as a poignant
reminder that the struggle for workers' rights and social justice is a vital part of a
functioning democracy, and that the fight for these principles should continue to be
a priority in the Philippines and beyond.

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Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.
Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

"Muro-Ami" Film Reflection: Unearthing Labor Rights in the Philippines

"Muro-Ami," directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya, is a harrowing Filipino film that delves

deep into the grim realities of child labor and exploitative working conditions in the
country's fishing industry. This reaction paper seeks to explore the Philippine Labor
Code's implications through the lens of the film, drawing attention to the issues of
child labor, hazardous work environments, and the challenges faced by
marginalized workers in the industry.

Child Labor: A Stark Reality

One of the central themes of "Muro-Ami" is the pervasive use of child labor,
particularly in the perilous practice of muro-ami fishing. The film provides a stark
visual representation of young boys plunging into the abyss of the ocean, enduring
life-threatening conditions, and forced to extract resources from the ocean floor
using methods that endanger their health and lives. These depictions compel us to
question the effectiveness of the Philippine Labor Code in safeguarding the rights of
minors within the workforce.

The Philippine Labor Code unequivocally prohibits child labor, as articulated

in Article 139, which designates the minimum working age as 15 years. However,
the film forcefully conveys that this provision falls far short of being effectively
enforced. "Muro-Ami" shows children as young as eight subjected to backbreaking
labor and exposed to dangerous conditions. This glaring incongruity between labor
laws and their enforcement underscores the urgency of stricter implementation of
child labor regulations and the development of more effective mechanisms for
detecting and preventing child labor.

Hazardous Work Conditions: A Precarious Existence

The film vividly portrays the hazardous nature of the muro-ami fishing
industry. Young divers operate in an environment that is inherently detrimental to
their well-being, physical health, and overall development. The film showcases the
strenuous, life-threatening conditions that expose these children to both physical
and psychological harm. The absence of protective equipment and safety measures
further underscores the necessity for greater adherence to labor laws.

The Philippine Labor Code, in Article 162, mandates employers to provide

adequate safety measures and protective gear for their employees. Nevertheless,
the film's portrayal of workers laboring without the necessary safety equipment
reveals that many employers in the industry do not comply with these labor
standards. This depiction paints a bleak picture of the working conditions in the
muro-ami industry and serves as a stark reminder of the significance of enforcing
labor laws to protect the health and safety of workers.

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Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.
Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

Struggles of Marginalized Workers: An Ongoing Battle

"Muro-Ami" also sheds light on the struggles of marginalized workers who

are driven into this exploitative industry due to poverty and the lack of viable
alternatives. The film highlights the socio-economic factors that compel individuals
and families to engage in such perilous work.

While the Philippine Labor Code offers guidelines for workers' rights and
benefits, it also underscores the importance of addressing economic and social
disparities. Nevertheless, the film illustrates that these issues persist, suggesting
that the government and relevant authorities must take more comprehensive
actions to tackle the root causes of labor exploitation, including poverty, limited
access to education, and the scarcity of alternative employment opportunities.

The Complex Issue of Poverty:

"Muro-Ami" introduces viewers to the impoverished coastal communities that

are bound to the fishing industry, emphasizing the vicious cycle of poverty that
perpetuates child labor and hazardous working conditions. Many families are
trapped in this industry due to their desperate financial situations, and the film
underscores the inadequacy of labor laws in addressing the underlying socio-
economic factors that drive child labor.

While the Philippine Labor Code, in its labor policies, emphasizes social
justice, the film exposes the deep-seated inequality that persists in these
communities. Despite the code's intent to provide equitable opportunities for all
workers, the reality depicted in the film is one of despair and lack of alternatives.

A Call to Action:

"Muro-Ami" is a compelling reminder of the urgent need to bolster the

enforcement of the Philippine Labor Code to protect workers' rights, especially
those of children, and improve working conditions in industries where exploitation is
rampant. The film underscores the significance of addressing not only the legal
aspects of labor rights but also the socio-economic factors that contribute to labor
exploitation.

It is crucial for the government and stakeholders to recognize that enforcing

existing labor laws is just one part of the solution. To effect real change, a
comprehensive approach must be adopted to tackle the root causes of labor
exploitation. This includes addressing poverty, providing access to education, and
creating viable alternative employment opportunities for marginalized communities.

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Fajardo, Kersy Mere M.
Wesleyan University-Philippines
College of Law
Labor Law, Block 2

One way to address these challenges is through increased collaboration

between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private
sector. Together, they can work towards developing and implementing programs
that uplift the lives of impoverished families, provide better education, and ensure
the enforcement of labor laws.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, "Muro-Ami" is a powerful and poignant film that forces us to

confront the painful realities of child labor, hazardous working conditions, and the
struggles of marginalized workers in the Philippines' fishing industry. Through the
lens of this film, we have explored the inadequacies of the Philippine Labor Code in
safeguarding the rights and well-being of its workers. It is imperative that we take
the lessons from "Muro-Ami" to heart and work towards a more just and equitable
labor landscape, one that prioritizes the rights and welfare of all workers, especially
those who are most vulnerable.