Valenzuela to inspect 1,675 factories in 21 days

MANILA - Four audit teams will go around Valenzuela City in the next 21 days to inspect the work and safety standards in 1,675 factories.

Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian said 1,675 factories in Valenzuela will undergo auditing if they are following fire safety, building, occupational and safety, and business permit standards.

“The target is 80 sites per day. The target is to do the audit in 21 days,” he said.

Some 72 workers died in a fire that gutted a footwear factory in Valenzuela City last Wednesday.

A welding activity near flammable materials was initially blamed for the fire.

Workers also complained of poor work and safety standards.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is urging Congress to hasten the passage of bills criminalizing non-compliance with safety standards in the workplace following the tragedy that befell 72 workers.