Insurance firm clarifies labor complaint

MANILA, Philippines – The head of an insurance company that was recently closed by the Muntinlupa City’s Business Permit and License Office (BPLO) said they already settled their differences with workers allegedly complaining about their office.

Winston Feria-Cajili, general manager of I-Icon Insurance Consultants, said as far as they are concerned, they do not know of anyone who has a standing complaint concerning their operations.

In a statement, Cajili admitted that though they have been collecting P300 from applicants, the amount is reportedly used for the applicants to be accredited as sales agents of the company.

“Wherein after payment, they will receive 16 pages of full-colored presentation kit of our company profile and products for them to use in their sales presentation; an identification card; and a personal accident insurance with benefits that included P50,000 for accidental death & disablement, P25,000 for unprovoked murder and assault, P5,000 for medical reimbursement and P2,500 burial benefit,” he said.

Earlier, BPLO chief Rodolfo Oliquino, following a directive by Mayor Aldrin San Pedro, issued the closure order to the company following complaints from a number of recruited workers because of alleged unfair labor practice and abuse.

Oliquino also noted that the firm, located at the Manila South Commuter Center in Alabang, is operating without the required business license and permits.

In issuing the closure order, Oliquino also considered the result of an investigation conducted last February by BPLO licensed inspector Rommel Balangue, who found that the firm was recruiting workers without a fixed salary after they pay P300.

After the inspection, the firm was ordered not to renew their business permit following complaints from several workers.

Another inspection was conducted last April 15 and it was learned that firm’s name was changed to Financial Intelligence Intermediary Inc., reportedly owned by the First Country Group. – Rhodina Villanueva