Capiz officials cite media help in release of Capiceño workers

by A. Lumaque

Roxas City (27 August) — The media have been very instrumental for the immediate release and homecoming of 16 Capiceño contractual workers who arrived home August 25 after a miserable experience with their employer in Mindoro.

This was revealed by Pontevedra Mayor Esteban Jose Contreras during a press conference that was set by the Capiz Provincial Press Bureau (CPPB) immediately upon the arrival of the beleaguered fishpond workers here.

“When the media followed up the issue with Mindoro officials and authorities, it became easy for us to coordinate with our counterparts in Mindoro to bring back the workers,” said Tumlos.

The 16 workers who hailed from barangay Intongcan, Pontevedra were contracted to construct fishponds in Mindoro but they fled from their employer following misunderstanding and physical harm inflicted on them.

Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco has affirmed the role of the media in the resolution of the problem as he also attributed the success of bringing home the Capiceño workers “to the cooperation of everybody.”

Tanco also distributed a package of goods for the returning workers so that they will have something to bring to their respective families after the press conference.

“We will see if we can give them work,” Tanco stressed, as he added that the workers will be given priority by the provincial government.

During the media interaction, the workers displayed the Capiceños humility and trouble-free mentality as they never entertained the idea of fighting back their oppressors.

“We even agreed for settlement with our employer even if we are the aggrieved party only to avoid further trouble and return home,” said Chito Ballona in Hiligaynon.

Ballona is among the workers who left the province last July for Mindoro but was unlucky with his venture for work.

The press conference was also graced by Capiz Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Esteban Evan Contreras, Provincial Administrator Zoe Herrera, and CPPB Chief Edward Basilonia, among others. (PIA)