Labor organizations in Negros Occidental presented a posthumous award on May 1 to the author of the 13th Month Pay Law and of the Social Amelioration Law for the workers in the sugar industry, a press release from the labor groups said.
The two pieces of legislation credited to Lawyer Zoilo De la Cruz’ has benefited millions of workers.
The labor groups passed Resolution 002 Series of 2023, titled “A Resolution Bestowing A Posthumous Award Upon the late Atty. Zoilo De la Cruz Jr. for his exemplary and invaluable contribution to the labor movement in the country.”
Wennie Sancho, GAWA secretary general, said “may the plaque of appreciation serve as a testimony to the undying commitment of Atty. Zoilo De la Cruz to the working class.”
The award was received by Benjie De la Cruz, presented by the presidents of the four labor federations, composed of NACUSIP, CIO, FLO and PACIWU, at the Negros Press Club on Labor Day 2023.
The solemn ceremony was witnessed by 40 local union presidents, NACUSIP national president, who virtually participated in this “Labor Solidarity Forum” which was a joint Labor Day program by the group led by Benjie De la Cruz, national secretary general of PACIWU.
Sancho said the posthumous award was a fitting tribute to a labor advocate who dedicated his lifetime to shepherd the poor and the oppressed workers. It is also a time to remember “Zoy”.*
