Alaska Milk Corporation (AMC) assured its employees at the San Pedro, Laguna manufacturing plant that they will provide care and support for those affected by the ongoing organizational transformation. Focused on protecting health and job security, AMC is offering both financial packages and practical transition programs for all those affected.
On 15 May, AMC had to make a difficult, but necessary, decision to undergo an organizational transformation in line with its parent Company, Royal FrieslandCampina’s global directive to optimize business operations. These changes will ensure jobs for the majority of its employees for a longer period, while also maintaining the affordability of its products for Filipinos nationwide.
“The decision to let go of some of our employees in San Pedro, Laguna based on redundant positions was a painful one for all of us at Alaska. We understand that this is a difficult time for those who will be affected. Alaska is therefore committed to providing all affected employees with a support package that not only includes a severance package above the minimum mandated by the law, but also monthly grocery allowances, product allowances, and an added gratuity pay,” said Atty. Maria Angela Esquivel, Corporate Affairs Director at AMC.
“Most importantly, as we are all still going through this COVID-19 pandemic, Alaska assures all affected employees that they and their respective dependents will continue to maintain their health benefits until the end of the year,” she added. About 200 employees from the manufacturing plant will be separated effective 1 July, but the company is first undergoing a screening process to allow an objective and transparent evaluation of its affected employees.
“Nakikipag-usap kami sa mga miyembro ng union na sumali sa mga screening interviews para malinaw naming maipaliwanag ang mga pagkakataon nilang magpatuloy sa Alaska, o kung paano namin masusuportahan ang mga ito sa pag transisyon sa iba pang trabaho,” said Atty. Esquivel. AMC continues to have an open line of communication with their union members as they dialogue through this transition.
As part of Alaska’s care package, they are setting up job fairs and employment seminars to guide their employees on where and how they can apply for new employment. Alaska is also working with the Public Employment Services Office (PESO) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to help connect affected employees to new opportunities.
“We know that proper job transition support must also include practical help, which is why we are offering business and resume building seminars. We will also offer financial and entrepreneurship workshops to the employees,” Atty. Esquivel shared.
When asked about the reasons for the reorganization, Atty. Esquivel explained that the business remains stable, but that these changes were necessary to keep Alaska’s products affordable for long-term business sustainability. “For 50 years, Alaska has been providing affordable nutrition for Filipino families, and these changes help us remain steadfast in that commitment while still supporting each of our valued employees.”