The Department of Labor & Employment has assumed jurisdiction over the dispute between Silliman University and the SU Faculty Association.
In an Order issued Feb. 13, Labor Sec. Bienvenido Laguesma directed both parties to undergo compulsory arbitration.
The DoLE Legal Service, and the National Conciliation & Mediation Board will conduct the initial conference on Feb. 21.
The DoLE Order prohibits the Union from going on strike, or from doing activities that will cause academic disruption, or commit any act that may further exacerbate the situation.
The SUFA had filed a Notice of Strike Feb. 7, and was within the seven-day cooling-off period when the DoLE Order was issued.
Members of the SUFA, along with some student leaders, gathered in front of the SU Administration gate Friday afternoon to protest the DoLE action.
SUFA President Prof. John Mark Te and Vice President Dr. Karl Villarmea said the DoLE’s action was “unfair” as it diminishes the political rights of employees.
