29 July 2009- 1 August 2009

Triumph International Trade Union of Thailand joined actions of the Triumph union in the Philippines to fight for justice. On the 30th of July, workers of Triumph union of the Philippines together with representatives of Triumph union Thailand, Jitra Cotshadet and Thanyathorn Keereethavornpat, staged a protest in front of the Swiss Embassy. The Swiss Ambassador to the Philippines received and discussed with four representatives of the workers in the embassy. He said Switzerland respects and protects human rights. The government can monitor Triumph International and urge it to follow their Code of Conduct, but it has no right to make decision for Triumph to open or close down its factories. He suggested the union in the Philippines to compromise with Triumph International and make possible demands such as increasing the compensation scheme.

The protesters continued to rally to the German Embassy in the afternoon. The embassy had placed over twenty of armed guards and a security dog to prevent the workers coming close to the commercial building, where the Germany embassy located. The embassy refused to accept the appeal letter until the leaders said they would still read it out and burn it. Two representatives then were allowed to go into the building and submit their letter. A messenger picked up the letter through the window of the embassy. None of the workers were able to get into the embassy.

On 31st of July, the two unions together with Bluestar union marched to the Ministry of Labour and submitted an appeal letter. The government gave positive responses. It made an commitment to help the Triumph workers by ensuring their compensation.

Photo gallery: