May 1, 1903, in the history of the Philippines, is the first Labor Day celebrated in my country. It was organized by the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas, the first labor federation in the country. Thousands of workers marched in Tondo to Malacanang to demand independence while shouting American Capitalism and imperialism. On April 8, 1908, the bill making May 1 the first labor day was passed in the Philippine assembly as a national holiday. Another event that happens on May 1 is; 1898 battle of naval between Spain and the United States happens in Manila Bay.
The event that will take place on Labor Day according to the news are:
*vaccination of 3,000 migrant workers and 2,000-5,000 minimum wage earners.
*labor movement protest
According to the labor movement group, the labor day protest is a way of motivation in changing society. The fight for decent life and work will continue as the workers are still exploited due to poor conditions. We women must do our part also in changing our labor force as many women were still exploited and abuse in our country and abroad. Ending child labor is another issue that we need to take attention too.
Child labor was taken for granted in the Philippines, many of these children you can see in the streets working to have food on their table.
Are we aware of child labor? Please write in the comments section below.
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