EDITORIAL - May Day

A hundred years ago today Filipino workers marched as an organized group for the first time to celebrate May 1 as Labor Day. Printers, lithographers, tailors, cigar makers, mechanics, all belonging to the first Philippine trade union organized by Isabelo de los Reyes, gathered at the Plaza Moriones in Tondo, Manila. After discussing the workers’ struggle and democratic unionism, the group marched to Malacañang, at the time occupied by the American governor-general, to demand Philippine independence. For his efforts, De los Reyes, an activist even during the Spanish colonial regime, was locked up for sedition. 

It would take half a century before the workers would get their wish for independence. The workers’ struggle itself has been an uphill battle. Throughout much of the 20th century, as the nation moved toward modernization, Filipinos were more concerned about finding a job than worrying about workers’ rights, including the need to earn a decent wage. It took decades before national leaders gave serious thought to promoting safety in the work place. As more and more women joined the work force, measures were also adopted to promote their welfare.

A hundred years after that first march by organized labor in this country, workers continue to seek better job conditions. In the developing world, balancing the need to promote workers’ rights with the need to attract investments and create more jobs can be a delicate act. There have been instances in this country where unionized workers have acted irresponsibly, leading to the shutdown of industries and consequent unemployment. But the biggest Philippine trade unions have learned their lessons and are generally willing to find a middle ground in labor disputes.

There are signs that the worst of the global economic slump is over, although the terrorist threat could again dampen markets. Even workers acknowledge that asking too much from employers at this time can kill struggling enterprises. Employers and the government, however, should also realize that the worst hit by an economic slump are those in the lower income brackets. If a wage adjustment is not possible, other forms of benefits or assistance can be given to workers. Such investments in the nation’s human resources can reap rewards in terms of improved productivity.