Cebu Labor Day marked by calls  for wage hikes, job security  reforms, and livelihood programs

CEBU, Philippines — Labor groups, government officials, and cause-oriented organizations marked the 124th Labor Day celebration in Cebu City yesterday, with calls for wage increases, job security, and broader economic reforms alongside government-led employment programs and livelihood initiatives.

Senator Imee Marcos, speaking before workers in Cebu City, called for urgent wage reforms and stronger job security measures, citing the continuing burden of rising prices on Filipino households.

She pointed to increases in fuel and electricity costs, which she said have further strained workers already struggling with low incomes.

Marcos noted concerns over high fuel and utility costs and said workers continue to experience what she described as “oil shock” and rising electricity bills. She also questioned official labor statistics, saying unemployment figures may not fully reflect underemployment and the daily struggles of many workers.

She said the widening gap between wages and the cost of living, citing estimates that a family of five needs about ?1,100 per day for basic needs, compared to the current minimum wage in Central Visayas ranging from about ?500 to ?540, and around ?680 in Metro Manila. She pushed for efforts to narrow regional wage disparities and align pay with living costs.

Marcos also raised concerns over contractualization, saying some workers remain under temporary employment arrangements for many years, including in government-related sectors.

She urged stronger enforcement of labor protections and increased investment in skills development, particularly in emerging technologies.

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro also joined Labor Day activities at Plaza Independencia, recognizing workers as key contributors to the province’s economy while acknowledging issues such as job insecurity and long working hours.

She reiterated the provincial government’s efforts to expand livelihood programs, skills training, healthcare services, and support for farmers, fisherfolk, and small enterprises.

Baricuatro emphasized the importance of cooperation among government, the private sector, and communities, saying stronger workers contribute to a stronger Cebu economy.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-7 opened the Labor Day celebration with a Tripartite Solidarity Walk at Plaza Independencia, bringing together representatives from labor unions, employers, and various industry sectors including manufacturing, construction, maritime, BPO, and healthcare. The activity highlighted unity among stakeholders in promoting workers’ welfare.

A job fair was also held at Robinsons Galleria Cebu, offering local and overseas employment opportunities. Organized by DOLE-7 with partner agencies and private employers, the event aimed to connect jobseekers with available work across different sectors.

Government agencies also rolled out livelihood and consumer support programs. The Department of Agriculture launched its “Benteng Bigas” initiative, providing subsidized rice to qualified beneficiaries including senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and minimum wage earners, with a limit of up to 10 kilograms per beneficiary.

A “Kadiwa ng Pangulo” fair was likewise opened, featuring local agricultural products such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, and native delicacies aimed at supporting farmers while providing affordable goods to consumers.

On the legislative side, Marcos cited pending proposals in Congress aimed at improving labor conditions, including wage increases for farmers and fisherfolk, income support for informal workers such as tricycle drivers, and expanded health and welfare programs. She urged faster action on these measures, saying many remain unaddressed.

Meanwhile, labor groups and cause-oriented organizations staged protest actions in Cebu City and nearby areas, calling for higher wages, social reforms, and action on inflation.

Groups including Workers for People’s Liberation and Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya held rallies along Colon Street, raising demands for wage increases and workers’ rights protections.

Bayan Central Visayas also called for broader mobilization, citing concerns over rising fuel prices, economic hardship, and alleged social issues affecting workers and communities. The group urged unity among various sectors in pushing for systemic reforms.

BMP Cebu and allied labor organizations joined the SANA ALL labor coalition rally along Osmeña Boulevard, calling for a national minimum wage increase and other economic reforms. Participants held marches and programs highlighting wage disparities, inflation, and job insecurity.

Across Cebu, the Labor Day observance reflected both government-led initiatives promoting employment and livelihood support, and continued calls from labor and activist groups for stronger wage protection, better job security, and broader reforms addressing the rising cost of living. (FREEMAN)