Labor Day in the Philippines is a public holiday every 1 May to
celebrate the Filipino worker. It is a chance to remember hard-won
workers’ rights. In 2018, the holiday falls on a Tuesday.
Labor Day is also a day for unions to bring attention to current
issues affecting workers. In 1886, unions in the United States were
successful in demanding an eight-hour working day. In the Philippines,
which was under United States colonial rule, workers organised a rally
at the American Governor-General’s residence demanding fairer working
conditions. This is officially recognised as the country’s first Labor
Day. However, it wasn’t until after 1913 when eight-hour days, as well
as other workers’ rights, were granted to the people.
Labor Day in the Philippines also shares much of its ethos with other
Labor Day celebrations around the world. Often many unions stage
demonstrations at Malacañang (the former American-Governor’s residence,
now Presidential palace) and big cities such as Manila, to bring
attention to their grievances. Issues such as raising the minimum wage
and inhumane working conditions continue to be brought before the
government.
Tags
Philippine Holidays
Post a Comment