Several unions have criticized Department of Transportation (DOTr) Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez after he allegedly scolded an LRT-1 staff member over systemic issues at the Baclaran Station.
In a joint statement, the National Federation of Labor Chapter 001 – LRMC Supervisory Union (NFL001-LRMCSU) and the National Federation of Labor Chapter 003 – LRMC Rank-and-File Union (NFL003-LRMCRAFU) said Lopez acted unprofessionally when he allegedly embarrassed the station worker in front of the media.
According to them, no government official has the right to humiliate, insult, or shout at a worker in public.
While they understand that Lopez was responding to concerns from passengers, they stressed that workers should not be blamed for problems that are beyond their control.
Because of this, the unions called for a formal investigation into staffing shortages, a public statement from transport agencies, and a public apology from Lopez.
Meanwhile, the DOTr has issued its own statement, saying Lopez merely expressed concern over delayed repairs and the station’s poor condition.
The agency also denied that Lopez humiliated the station manager.
It added that Lopez’s remarks stemmed from frustration and concern for commuters, and from ensuring that passengers receive the level of service they deserve from the facility.
(SCREEN GRAB FROM DOTR)
