The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses deep concern over the reported collapse of scaffolding at a construction site in Santa Rosa, Laguna, which resulted in two construction workers being buried under concrete and debris.

CHR reiterates that the right to safe and humane working conditions is a fundamental human right, enshrined in both domestic and international human rights frameworks. Article XIII, Section 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution guarantees the full protection of labor, both local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and promotes full employment and equal employment opportunities for all.

Furthermore, under Republic Act No. 11058, or the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) Law, employers are required to ensure a safe and healthy workplace for all employees and are accountable for any violations of safety standards that may result in injury, disability, or loss of life.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 155 on Occupational Safety and Health, which the Philippines has ratified, obliges States to develop, implement, and enforce coherent national policies to protect the health and safety of workers.

In line with this, the Commission urges the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other relevant authorities to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation into the incident. CHR also stresses the importance of ensuring accountability for any violations of occupational health and safety standards.

All workers have the right to a safe and dignified working environment. As the country’s independent national human rights institution, CHR will closely monitor developments in this case and continue advocating for stronger protections for workers’ rights, especially the most vulnerable ones. ###