Diamonds in the sky: competency needs qualifications

Discrimination is a widespread issue in the Philippines. The Filipinos tend to have this crab mentality that drags others ahead of them rather than appreciating them. It is visible in all aspects particularly in the workplace. It is argued by both parties whether the discretion of the employers rightfully respects the rights of the employees. It is said that employers exercise their rights by discriminating their employees and their rights as people of the state. The issue regarding the discrimination of the management among the applicants is crucial for it raises the awareness of employees, thus, it needs clarification.

The management or the employers has management prerogatives or rights to set qualifications that the applicants must reach. These standards are promulgated for the welfare of the company to maintain and improve their reputation and service. For a clearer point, let me take the airlines as an example. It is obviously observed in the airplanes that their flight attendants have a particular height, weight, age and physical features. Flight attendants have to be almost 5’3 in height proportionate to their body weight, they must be single and with age limitation of 18-27 years old, they must be charming and beautiful, and no tattoos are allowed in any part of their body. These are the physical appearance qualifications to become a flight attendant. Such rules are strictly implemented because those people who qualify the set standards have the higher capability to give good accommodation to the passengers of the airplane.

There are a lot of people who have competence but lack the features of being a flight attendant. Due to this set of standards, people who dream to become a flight attendant do not have the chance to attain it. According to Article XIII, Section 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, “The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and promote full employment opportunities for all. Obviously, the management is not giving equal opportunities by rejecting other applicants because the management believes that they are not capable enough to do what the qualified ones can. However, you cannot blame the management for implementing these rules because of the possible consequences. For example, if a short woman is tasked to reach a bag in the compartment, can she do it? Probably not. There are solutions suggested like putting a ladder but this is promoting inconvenience; it will just maximize the space and add weight to the airplane that will risk the lives of the passengers. That is why, it is highly recommended to hire someone from ages 18-27 for reasons that they are more free-spirited, confident and updated to the society. Physical appearance is also observed because passengers most likely want to have a delightful face giving aid and services. The set of standards are given to make the atmosphere convenient and peaceful to the passengers.

It is important to have flight attendants who qualify the standards given. I am not against the standards set by the management for their welfare. The so-called discrimination will not be considered as one if people will understand the reasons why these qualifications need to be followed. Moreover, it is the initiative of the applicants not to apply if they know that they are not qualified for the job. I do believe that there are more opportunities waiting out there in which they can excel, be appreciated and be who they are. Everyone needs to know the word respect to avoid such conflicts. Respect the managements’ rights and respect the employees’ rights.