Strengthening Workers’ Rights: UDM Faculty Association Adopts New Constitution and By-Laws
By: Ms. Lorena Victorio
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, the Universidad de Manila (UDM) continues to uphold its commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting fair employment practices. A key milestone in this effort is the formal adoption of the UDM Faculty Association (UDM-FA) Constitution and By-Laws, which strengthens institutional mechanisms for faculty empowerment and representation.
This policy framework serves as the guiding document for the governance, organization, and operations of the UDM Faculty Association. It clearly defines the duties, responsibilities, and privileges of its members while ensuring the protection of their rights and benefits. By institutionalizing this governing framework, UDM reinforces the principles of freedom of association, collective bargaining, and participatory governance, providing faculty members with a solid platform to engage in fair labor dialogue and decision-making processes that affect their professional and personal welfare.
In addition, the creation of the Administrative Association is now in progress, with its draft Constitution and By-Laws currently under review. This parallel development highlights UDM’s holistic approach in extending representation and organizational integrity not only to faculty but also to administrative staff—fostering a more inclusive and empowered university community.
These initiatives reflect UDM’s proactive stance which promotes the protection of labor rights and safe, secure working environments for all workers. By recognizing the importance of unions and collective participation, UDM sets a model for higher education institutions that champion equity, transparency, and social dialogue.
Through these efforts, the Universidad de Manila reaffirms that inclusive growth and institutional progress are achieved when employees are valued, their voices are heard, and their rights are upheld—embodying the very essence of decent work and shared prosperity.
