Mr John De Payva’s deep-rooted commitment to the Labour Movement goes way back to 1978 at The Singapore Manual & Mercantile Workers’ Union (SMMWU) where he became its Secretary-General.  In 1988, he was nominated into the Central Committee, and served as Nominated Member of Parliament till 1997 when he became NTUC’s President. A firm believer in leadership renewal, Mr De Payva relinquished his position as President last year, but will continue to serve the unions as President Emeritus and represent NTUC’s best interests in the international arena.