The National Congress of Unions in the Sugar Industry of the Philippines (NACUSIP) proudly marks a historic milestone with the celebration of its 60th Founding Anniversary, carrying the theme “Sixty Years of Solidarity: Building a Stronger Future for Labor.”
Established by 17 sugar industry trade unions at the University of the Philippines Asian Labor Education Center (UP-ALEC now known as the University of the Philippines School of Labor and Industrial Relations or U.P. SOLAIR), Diliman, Quezon City on August 27-28, 1965, NACUSIP has been a steadfast champion of the Filipino sugar workers, dedicating six decades to the struggle for justice, dignity, and social protection in the labor movement. From the sugar plantations to the halls of negotiation and policy-making, NACUSIP has consistently raised the banner of solidarity, ensuring that the voices of workers are heard and their rights upheld, a press release from the organization states.
The 60th Anniversary Celebration at the Grand Ballroom of the Business Inn Hotel, Bacolod City, are bringing together workers, union leaders, labor advocates, government officials, business partners, and international allies. The program will feature ceremonial tributes to the federation’s pillars and pioneers, and a glimpse of NACUSIP’s contribution to the labor movement such as the Social Amelioration Program of the Sugar Industry and the 13th Month Pay benefit as well as solidarity messages from social and industrial peace partners.
“This anniversary is both a remembrance and a renewal,” said Roland C. de la Cruz, NACUSIP-TUCP National President. “We honor our founders especially the late Atty. Zoilo V. de la Cruz, Jr. and Bro. Emilio Zayco and the labor leaders who paved the way, and we pledge to carry forward their legacy of solidarity as we confront the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Filipino workers.”
As NACUSIP looks toward the future, it reaffirms its mission to empower sugar workers, advance social justice, and strengthen the labor movement—a commitment that remains as vital today as it was 60 years ago, their release said.