Medical union workers have launched a general strike after negotiations with hospital management failed to produce results.

Unionists at 27 hospitals across the nation started the walkout early Thursday morning as planned after marathon overnight negotiations failed to narrow differences on wage increases.

The two sides, however, did manage to agree in principle on the implementation of a five-day workweek system.

No serious disruption of services is expected from the walkout as it will be conducted only partially. Key facilities will remain open including the emergency room and intensive care unit.

The National Labor Relations Commission will decide on whether to intervene in the dispute after closely watching the development of the medical strike.

Meanwhile, unionists of national power generating bodies have voted to launch a strike from Monday, demanding the improvement of wage guidelines, the introduction of a five-day workweek and staff increase.

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