Celebrate Labor Day in the Philippines (May 1, 2024)
Labor Day in the Philippines – or “Araw ng mga Manggagawa” – is a upcoming day (May 1, 2024) to celebrate the hardworking Filipinos who contribute tirelessly to the nation. Families and friends come together, and across the country, people take a break from their routines. At Malacañang Palace and in major cities like Manila, labor movements and parades take center stage during the festivities. These activities serve as a platform to highlight grievances, including concerns about the minimum wage, inhumane working conditions, and other issues that impact employees’ rights. On this day, every industrious Filipino is honored, regardless of their occupation.
On this significant day, every dedicated Filipino – regardless of their occupation – is recognized and celebrated. Companies often grant their employees a well-deserved day off as a gesture of appreciation for their unwavering commitment throughout the year. The roots of Labor Day in the Philippines trace back to February 2, 1902, marked by the establishment of the Union Obrero Democratica de Filipinas (formerly known as the Union Obrera Democratica), founded by Isabelo de los Reyes, Sr and Herminigildo Cruz. This union fervently championed the rights of the Filipino working class during the American occupation era. It mobilized thousands of workers, demanding improved working conditions and fair treatment from employers. This historic event stands as a pivotal milestone in the labor movement’s history, ultimately leading to the recognition of workers’ rights and the establishment of labor laws in the country.
History of Labor Day
Isabelo de los Reyes, Sr, born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, was the child of Elías de los Reyes and Leona Florentino. At the age of 16, he left for Manila, where he completed his Bachiller en Artes at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran. His thirst for knowledge led him to study the Civil Code, Penal Code, Mercantile Code, judicial proceedings, document drafting, palaeography, and anthropology at the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.
On February 2, 1902, the Union Obrera Democratica Filipina (UODF) was established, with Isabelo de los Reyes, Sr as its president and Hermenegildo Cruz as secretary during its inaugural congress at the Variedades Theater in Sampaloc, Manila. The UODF aimed to improve conditions for Filipino laborers. Under Isabelo’s leadership, the UODF gained momentum, rallying workers from diverse sectors. His unwavering commitment to combating imperialism and capitalism left a lasting legacy for social justice and workers’ rights.
In July 1902, the Philippines witnessed one of the group’s initial demonstrations, as 70,000 participants demanded Philippine independence on United States Independence Day. In August of the same year, the UODF orchestrated a nationwide general strike in response to the government’s refusal to increase wages.
In August 1902, the American-led government arrested Delos Reyes for rebellion, sedition, and “conspiracy to raise the price of labor.” Dominador Gomez succeeded him. Under Gomez’s rule, the U.O.D.F. led a march alongside 100,000 workers, where he too was arrested on the same grounds as Delos Reyes.
Labor Day in the Philippines was first celebrated on May 1, 1903. Over 100,000 employees organized by the country’s first labor organization, the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipina (U.O.D.F.), marched from Tondo’s Plaza Moriones to Malacañang. These workers protested, demanding fair wages and better working conditions from the then-American-led government. The event marked one of the earliest protests in the streets of Manila.
April 8, 1908, marked a significant milestone when the Philippine Assembly passed a bill recognizing May 1 as Labor Day, declaring it a national holiday. The first Labor Day celebration occurred on May 1, 1913, organized by Herminigildo Cruz, the other founder of U.O.D.F., during the Congreso Obrero de Filipinas. The party demanded fair working conditions for the labor sector, including eight-hour working days, an end to child labor, equal labor standards for women, and employers’ liability to their employees.
Since then, Labor Day has been synonymous with demonstrations and rallies organized by the labor sector. In 2012, more than 40 labor federations joined forces to form the NAGKAISA coalition, aiming to convince the Philippine government to raise the minimum wage, eliminate labor contractualization, and control market fuel prices.
Why Labor Day in the Philippines is Important?
1. A Day of Respite: Labor Day grants respite from the daily grind. It’s a chance to unwind, surrounded by loved ones. Consider spending the day immersed in enlightening documentaries available online.
2. Upholding Worker Rights: In the Philippines, Labor Day ensures equitable treatment for all workers, regardless of their sector. It stands as a beacon for fair labor practices.
3. Honoring the Struggle: The battle for fair working conditions has spanned generations. On this day, we honor those who fought tirelessly for suitable workplaces and continue to champion workers’ rights.
4. A Historical Journey: Originating from the inaugural Labor Day protest on May 1, 1903, organized by the Union Obrera Democratica Filipina (UODF), this occasion symbolizes the fight for better conditions and just treatment.
5. Celebrating Contributions: Labor Day celebrates the invaluable contributions of workers nationwide. Their pivotal role in the country’s economic development and progress deserves recognition.
6. Evolution of Advocacy: Since the first official celebration in 1913, Labor Day has transformed into a powerful platform for workers’ rights advocacy and solidarity movements across the Philippines.
7. Pushing for Reform: This day sheds light on ongoing challenges faced by the labor force. It serves as a catalyst for reforms that promote social justice and equality, echoing the spirit of those who paved the way.
2024 marked as the 121st Anniversary of Labor Day
As of December 2023, the Philippines boasted a robust workforce of 50.5 million people. The service sector, the backbone of the economy, employed a majority of 57.3%, while the agricultural sector, the heartland of the nation’s heritage, engaged around 24.4%. The industrial sector, the forge of modernization, accounted for 18.3%.
Labor Day has blossomed into a beacon of aspiration and a clarion call for rights. It echoes the trials weathered, the sacrifices offered, and the triumphs secured through our united efforts. It’s a time to ponder our collective journey, the obstacles surmounted, and the prospects that lie on the horizon.
Let this day be a salute to the valiant souls who champion our cause and embody our collective will. May we nurture a profound gratitude for the liberties we enjoy and honor the ethos of this pivotal movement. Labor Day beckons us to solidarity, to persist in our quest to enhance the welfare of every Filipino.
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