In the wake of a contentious raid on the Central One Bataan PH Inc., a licensed business process outsourcing (BPO) company within the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), Bataan political leaders have united in voicing concerns over alleged misconduct by law enforcement and potential violations of workers’ rights.

The October 31 operation, conducted by combined forces from the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), Philippine National Police Region III (PNP III), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), has left thousands of employees and residents of Bataan without work or clear explanations.

Bataan Governor Joet Garcia called for justice for affected workers, stating, “We want to achieve justice for our fellow citizens who have been severely impacted by the raid, especially given that, to this day, no clear case has been filed against the company that could substantiate allegations of illegal activities within Central One.” Governor Garcia emphasized the importance of respecting workers’ rights and adhering to lawful procedures in government operations.

For her part, Bataan 3rd District Representative Gila Garcia echoed similar concerns, highlighting the deep unease among residents. “As a representative of Bataan’s Third District, I am greatly concerned about the repercussions of the raid conducted under a human trafficking search warrant,” she said. Representative Garcia also noted that, despite initial claims, no case has been filed against Central One, while evidence of mistreatment allegedly inflicted upon employees by the raiding team has surfaced. “It’s disheartening to see the abuse and lack of respect endured by our fellow citizens. Beyond this, thousands are now without jobs and face an uncertain future,” she added.

Meanwhile, Bataan 2nd District Representative Abet Garcia addressed Congress on Monday, delivering a privilege speech to spotlight the fallout of the raid and the impact on the province. “Nearly two weeks have passed, and still, no case has been filed to verify claims of illegal activity at Central One,” he pointed out.

Congressman Garcia expressed alarm over reports of workers being detained, slapped, verbally abused, and denied basic dignity by some members of the raiding team, describing such behavior as “unprofessional and unacceptable.”

The Garcia siblings underscored their commitment to resolving the crisis, ensuring accountability, and protecting the dignity and welfare of the people of Bataan. The leaders hope that, through proper investigation and due process, Bataan can restore its reputation as a province known for peace, order, and development.

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