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Mentally or physically abused—who cares?
That was the attitude shown by then-representative Ray Yumul during the 14th Legislature to guest workers.
Our own kababayan, Ray Yumul, authored House Bill 14-142, which he called the “Alien Workers Act of 2004.” A lot of us remember the uproar this caused within the Filipino community, which led to boycotts of Jollibee. It was so bad the Philippine government issued a statement condemning the legislation.
While there were many things wrong with the legislation, perhaps the most outrageous language included was the following:
4602. No transfers. No alien worker shall transfer from one employer to another employer at any time.
Why was this bad? Well there have been quite a number of cases of abuse, both physical and mental, against our brothers and sisters in the CW community. If this legislation had passed, those abused wouldn’t be allowed to leave the abusive situation and secure employment elsewhere.
Mr. Yumul, is our life or mental wellbeing not as important as yours? Mr. Yumul, do we not bleed the same color of blood as you?
There is no place in our society for those that abuse others and certainly no place in our society for those that would protect abusers.
On Nov. 21, a strong message from the Filipino community will be sent to Mr. Yumul that his type of politics is not welcome in the CNMI.
Please join me in making sure that the Inos/Torres ticket will win because they would stand up for all law-abiding citizens, not those that are abusive. Vote Inos/Torres!
Irene Tantiado
Garapan, Saipan
