MAGALANG, Pampanga — Vice Mayor Eller Villanueva Pecson is urging the National Bureau of Investigation and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission to investigate reports of a second alleged illegal steel plant operating in Barangay San Ildefonso, following the recent raid on Chuangxing Steel Inc.
Pecson said his office has received multiple complaints, along with photos, videos, and documents suggesting the operation of another unauthorized steel smelter in the municipality.
Cellphone footage and images shared by the vice mayor show workers conducting what appears to be a blessing ceremony without proper safety gear. Additional video shows two employees dancing on a forklift before returning to work. Photographs also depict the removal of car batteries at the site.
“The images showing workers without adequate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) are deeply concerning due to the serious risks to their health and safety,” Pecson said, emphasizing the need for immediate investigation.
The vice mayor stressed that if the allegations are confirmed, the facility should be shut down immediately for possible violations of labor, occupational safety, and environmental protection laws. He also expressed concern about the potential processing of radioactive materials, similar to what was recently discovered at Chuangxing Steel, which could endanger both the environment and public health.
Chuangxing Steel workers report health issues
Meanwhile, several workers from the raided Chuangxing Steel facility have sought medical attention at a Pampanga hospital, reporting symptoms including blurred vision and hearing loss.
The workers, who requested anonymity, attribute their conditions to prolonged exposure to excessive noise and hazardous working conditions inside the plant. On Monday afternoon, they visited the Ospital ning Angeles, where doctors recommended hearing tests.
Following their medical consultation, the workers proceeded to the National Labor Relations Commission in the City of San Fernando to file formal complaints against Chuangxing Steel Inc. and its manpower agencies, Kingsmen Manpower and General Services Inc. and Bantayan Manpower Services.
The complaints cite unsafe working conditions, wage violations, and other infringements of workers’ rights.
Cellphone video obtained by reporters shows an acetylene tank explosion that allegedly occurred inside the steel mill. According to the workers, the incident demonstrates the absence of proper safety protocols at the facility.
Meanwhile, Punto is still trying to get the side of Kingsmen Manpower and General Services Inc., Bantayan Manpower Services and Chuangxing Steel Inc. regarding the case filed against them.
