Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) announced on Monday, April 27, that it will stage coordinated Labor Day protests nationwide on May 1, citing low wages, rising prices, and global conflicts as key issues fueling unrest.
Partnering with All Workers Unity and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, KMU will lead a march to Mendiola, pressing the Marcos administration for living wages, price controls, and subsidies while demanding an end to the US-Isarel war on Iran.
Parallel actions are scheduled in Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Bicol, Negros, Cebu, Panay, and Davao. The announcement follows a “Nationwide Day of Action for Living Wages,” where workers from industries including manufacturing, construction, logistics, BPO, and telecommunications staged coordinated protests such as breaktime rallies, black shirt days, and strike actions.
KMU also welcomed the filing of wage hike petitions in Metro Manila, Region IV-A, and Central Luzon, calling it a sign of mounting economic pressure on workers.
“Sumisigla ang pagkilos ng mga manggagawa dulot ng krisis… at ang pangangailangang lumaban (The actions of workers are intensifying due to the crisis… and the need to fight) ,” said KMU chairperson Jerome Adonis.
He urged workers to unite for Labor Day, citing recent strike actions as proof of the gains that collective action can bring.
The group also raised concerns over government programs it claims have led to crackdowns in urban poor communities and alleged human rights abuses in some regions.
Organizers said protesters will gather along España Boulevard before marching to Mendiola on May 1 to join other labor groups and people’s organizations in the annual Labor Day demonstrations.
