May 1 to inspire workers in struggle for fair labor

Workers are reminded to not just observe Labor Day as tradition, but to consider it as a reminder that workers' struggle for fair labor and wages and protection for their rights continues.

This as thousands of workers across the country are expected to march on the streets in observance of the 103rd celebration of the Labor Day on May 1.

This early, the Department of Labor and Employment also issued a memorandum setting the guidelines for Monday, which is declared as regular non-working holiday.

DOLE said that there would be no classes and work on Monday and those who would report to work is entitled to receive 200 percent of his/her day's salary considering that Labor Day is among the 10 regular holidays declared by Executive Order 203.

The 200 percent shall apply on the first eight hours and an additional 30 percent for every hour worked in excess.

If it is the employee's regular day off and the day is unworked, he/she is still entitled for the day's pay of 100 percent.

In a labor forum held at Baseline restaurant last Wednesday, Joshua Mata, national secretary general of Alliance of Progressive Labor, told workers that since Labor Day is observed every year, it became like a tradition and workers seem to forget its real meaning.

"Every May 1, we march on the streets but what is really the relevance of Labor Day? For many, it remains just like a tradition but May 1 is the best time for us to be reminded that the struggle of workers do not end here," Mata explained.

Amid the problems and issues that are experienced by the present workers like unfair labor practices, low wages, among others, he encouraged them to never give up in fighting for their rights.

Meanwhile, Mata said that thousands of their members around the country will join the simultaneous march rallies and other protest activities on Monday. In Manila, he said that around 10,000 workers who are members of APL and its allied groups are expected to be on the streets to demand for jobs, improve wages and salaries and an end on the country's political crisis through the resignation of President Arroyo.

Around 2,000 APL members in Cebu are also expected to join protests; 3,000 in Davao; 2,000 in Cagayan de Oro and 1,000 in Iligan.

In Talisay City, the Metro Cebu Industrial Peace Council will celebrate their first anniversary this Monday, with Labor and Employment Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas as honored guest.

In a memorandum issued by Talisay City Mayor Socrates Fernandez, a commemorative program with the theme "Ang Galing Mo, Manggagawang Pilipino!" will be highlighted with the signing of the MCIPC's Constitution and By-Laws.

A joint declaration/manifesto will also be signed by leaders of the cities of Lapu-Lapu, Talisay, Cebu and Mandaue to support all undertakings by the councils that enhance greater productivity and cultivation of positive attitude and professionalism.

Expected also are activities that promote occupational health and safety including labor counseling.

Potential employees of business process outsourcing companies will also be awarded certificates of training for work scholarships.

Job fairs, both for local and international, will be simultaneously held at the Provincial Capitol grounds and the Cebu City Sports Complex. - Wenna A. Berondo, Jasmin R. Uy and Ferliza C. Contratista