01/05/2026
๐๐๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ ๐๐๐ฌ
โ๏ธ Yuri Rodriguez
โOn May 1, 1903, more than 100,000 Filipino workers gathered at Malacaรฑang palaceโled by Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas (UODF)โwhere they chanted slogans against American imperialism and capitalismโto fight and protest for fair wages and dignity in labor. A special day that marked the birth of Labour Day here in the Philippines. Proof that there existed the courage of Filipino workers who retaliated and fought against exploitation.
โLong before this historical march, Filipino workers struggled yet endured long working hours, meager pay, and unsafe conditions. Under the American imperialist rule, they endured hardships that no Filipino worker should have gone through. But this resulted in a moment of anger, a moment where they no longer wanted to bargain, but to take control.
โThose same workers decided that they would no longer endure the struggles given to them by foreign people and started to retaliate. The Filipino workers decided that they will be demanding Philippine independence, improved working conditions, and an end to the exploitation of Filipino laborers by Americanโowned firms. So, a rally, a march, a fight, a confrontation was held and more than 100,000 Filipino workers joined in. Because even though they were struggling, there existed a voice that carved a movement that could no longer be silenced, but heard. Side by side, those workers fought for their rights.
โEvery May 1, there exists a reminder that rallies and protests are the ones who whisper that the fight is not over. Those workers are heroes. Banners are raised for them to honor the efforts and the results of their blood, sweat, and tears. So until today, their chants are still echoing amidst everything.
โWhat they held on to resulted into the uplifting of millions until this very day. A moment where future generations continue to experience what they fought for. If more people participate and extend their solidarity, the spirit of Labour Day will continue to shine.