The current deep recession that is expected to lead into a severe depression has began to kick into high gear in the Philippines in the first few weeks of the new year, portending worse things to come for the country's 36-million strong labor force. Despite the government's claims at "safeguarding" the workers "amidst the global storm", the people and the ordinary workers will evidently be made to bear the heaviest blows of the crisis.

From bad to worse

Swedish furniture giant Ikea and US retailer Wal-Mart was among several international companies criticized by a Norwegian group for what it deemed "unacceptable" working conditions at a Turkish supplier.

Home textile product supplier Menderes Tekstil had threatened and fired employees who showed interest in joining a union, said Framtiden i Våre Hender (The Future in Our Hands), which focuses on ethical and climate issues.