Question 9 of 32
Labor Law
SOLE assumption and jurisdiction over damages from labor disputes practice question
The Flight Officers' Union (FOU), the exclusive bargaining agent of all pilots of AeroPacific, staged a strike despite a written order from the Secretary of Labor and Employment (SOLE) assuming jurisdiction over their labor dispute and prohibiting any strike. During the strike, several pilots abandoned aircraft mid-flight, resulting in substantial losses for AeroPacific due to stranded passengers and cancelled flights. The SOLE later issued a resolution declaring the strike illegal and ordering the dismissal of the striking pilots, but did not expressly rule on AeroPacific's claim for damages. The SOLE's resolution became final and executory. Eight months after finality, AeroPacific filed a complaint for damages against FOU and its officers before the Labor Arbiter. Should the Labor Arbiter take cognizance of AeroPacific's complaint for damages? Explain.