Alliance of Health Workers (AHW) president Robert Mendoza said a protest will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 14, in what they have dubbed as "Black Hearts Day."
He explained the significance of the chosen day during the interview with TeleRadyo Serbisyo on Tuesday, Feb.13, saying "Tinatawag nating black hearts day kasi alam natin na may maitim na puso ang gobyerno kasi hindi naman namin nakikita na talagang may pagmamahal sila sa mga health workers (We call it black hearts day because we know that the government has a dark heart since we don't see any genuine love for the health workers)."
Mendoza also noted that the protest is scheduled to begin with a gathering in front of the Department of Health (DOH) at 8:30 a.m., followed by a procession towards Mendiola at 9:30 a.m.
Meanwhile, expressing apprehension about potential intervention by the Philippine National Police (PNP), the AHW president emphasized their peaceful intentions.
"We hope this won't happen because we are not violent in our rallies and protests,” Mendoza said.
"Ang gusto lang namin ay makarating sa Mendiola para makita ng ating Presidente na ito 'yung mga bulto ng health workers at kasama pa ang ibang government employee para ihatag ang mga hinaing (All we want is to reach Mendiola so that our President can see the plight of the health workers, along with other government employees, to address their grievances),” he added.