Women-led groups, along with other progressive organizations, commemorated the International Women’s Day on Wednesday, March 8 by urging the national government to grant higher wages, ensure job security, and promote the protection of all Filipinos.
“We link arms with other women’s organizations and take to the streets to amplify our call for higher wages, job security, and trade union rights as we commemorate the International Working Women’s Day—the first under the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.,” said Gabriela Secretary-General Clarice Palce.
The progressive organizations spearheaded a series of protests to mark the celebration. Among those that took part include the following: Kilusan ng Manggagawang Kababaihan, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Federation of Free Workers, Partido Manggagawa, and Public Services Labor Independent Confederation.
“What we need is a P750 wage increase to push the minimum wage closer to the calculated P1,100 living wage for Filipinos. We need job security in the form of regular work for all and the abolition of contractual work in the country. We need improved services for violence against women and children (VAWC), health, and other public services,” Palce furthered.
Aside from airing their demands, the organizations denounced the proposed charter change as well as the planned implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program.