Thousands expected to take to streets in first Labor Day protest since lockdown
MANILA, Philippines — Thousands of workers are determined to make a return to the streets for the first massive in-person Labor Day protest since one of the world’s longest lockdowns began in March 2020.
Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) chairperson Elmer Labog told Philstar.com that some 5,000 people are expected to attend Saturday’s demonstration at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila — a marked departure from last year’s Labor Day protests which were largely confined online.
The protest will essentially be in defiance of the government’s restrictions on mass gatherings as it extended until May 14 the modified enhanced community quarantine over Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
“Esensyal ang makibaka,” Labog said in a separate statement. “Kung gaano kahalaga ang pagkain, ang serbisyong medikal at iba pa, ganoon rin ang pangangailangang lumaban para sa nararapat.”
(To fight is essential … The need to fight for what is right is just as important as food, medical services and more.)
KMU said they will be demanding for much-needed aid amid the sprawling lockdowns, specifically P10,000 cash aid for the poor and jobless, a P100 daily wage subsidy for workers and a P15,000 production subsidy for farmers.
Aside from aid, the protesters will also be calling for mass testing, livelihood, a stop to attacks on activists, free and safe vaccines, and independence from foreign powers.
During the protest, an effigy of President Rodrigo Duterte resembling a vampire would be unveiled.
KMU reminded protesters to strictly observe health protocols and encouraged senior citizens and minors to instead join online protests.
Here is a list of activities on Labor Day:
- Mass at Santo Niño de Tondo Church to be officiated by Bishop Broderick Pabillo at 6 a.m.
- Jeepney drivers caravan at 7 a.m. starting at Blumentritt España to Liwasang Bonifacio
- Main Labor Day protest at Liwasang Bonifacio at 9:30 a.m.
- Various labor groups will hold an online protest at 2 p.m. which will be livestreamed on KMU’s Facebook page
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