Various workers’ groups staged protests across the country on Friday to commemorate Labor Day 2026, pressing for higher wages, job security, and expanded social services.
More than 300 workers gathered along Dr. A. Santos Avenue in Barangay San Antonio, Parañaque City, where protesters voiced concerns over insufficient wages and economic hardship, RH Jecelle Ricafort reported on DZRH's Dos Por Dos.
Labor organizations renewed calls for a P1,200 daily living wage and the passage of a legislated P200 wage increase, as they highlighted the rising cost of living. Demonstrators also demanded housing services and dignified employment opportunities.
Members of Workers for People’s Liberation said workers have long endured financial struggles, worsened by alleged government corruption and global conflicts such as tensions in the Middle East, which they said contributed to rising fuel prices and basic goods.
In Manila, thousands of protesters from different groups began marching as early as 8:00 a.m. toward Mendiola, with some converging at Welcome Rotonda. The gatherings caused slow-moving traffic along Quezon Boulevard southbound toward España.
At Marikina Cityhood Park around 700 workers from various labor unions also held a march and program, reported by RH Edniel Parrosa on DZRH News.
Protesters criticized policies under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., particularly in relation to ongoing economic challenges and the oil crisis.
WATCH: Nasa 700 manggagawa mula sa iba’t ibang labor union, nagmartsa at nagprograma sa Marikina Cityhood Park ngayong Labor Day | RH 52 @ednielparrosa, DZRH News pic.twitter.com/OKXZk3GJ6f
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) May 1, 2026
Meanwhile, police were deployed at EDSA Shrine despite no rally permit filed for the area.
According to a report by RH Val Gonzales, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) was placed on full alert status starting midnight, with personnel stationed in strategic locations across key areas. Authorities reported that traffic congestion occurred in parts of Quezon City due to early gatherings of rallyists.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) also implemented a “full alert” status nationwide, deploying 106,633 officers to secure public spaces and monitor demonstrations. The PNP said the move was meant to ensure rapid response capabilities and was not due to any confirmed security threat.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities have not detected any credible threats related to the Labor Day protests.
However, intelligence units were tasked to coordinate with local governments to monitor for possible “outside agitators” who might disrupt activities, similar to incidents reported during protests on September 21, 2025.
In Metro Manila, at least three groups secured permits to hold rallies and programs in five locations, including areas in University of the Philippines Diliman, government offices such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, as well as selected schools and public markets in Quezon City and Manila.
Authorities reiterated that the full alert status was a precautionary measure to maintain peace and order as thousands of workers exercised their right to assembly on Labor Day.
