Filipinos nationwide are celebrating Labor Day today, May 1, with hopes for better economic opportunities ahead. Four of the highest public officials of our nation each released their own statements to mark the occasion. Check out their key messages below:
PRESIDENT FERDINAND MARCOS, JR.
Our country is built upon the sweat and toil of Filipinos working day in and day out to provide for the needs of their families and take a chance to uplift their lives. From the bustling cities to the remote fields in the countryside, it’s the labor of the Filipino that propels us forward, fueling our economy and sustaining the very fabric of our society.
On this special day, we recognize the invaluable contributions of our hardworking men and women whose grit and resilience have paved the way for our national development. We also pay homage to all the people who raised their voices in the pursuit of social justice, championing the rights of workers and ensuring that their efforts are duly valued and compensated.
The government continues to support the working class and uphold the principles of fairness, dignity and equity across all workspaces. Indeed, under the banner of a Bagong Pilipinas, we will usher in an era of greater prosperity where opportunities abound, creating a society where every worker is cherished, respected and empowered to thrive.
VICE PRESIDENT AND EDUCATION SECRETARY SARA DUTERTE
Saludo kami sa hindi matatawarang sipag at dedikasyon ninyo. Ang bawat araw ninyong pagsusumikap ay aming gabay tungo sa landas ng pag-unlad ng ating bayan.
Sa bawat OFW, medical at security frontliner, community workers, mga guro, at sa lahat ng nagtatrabaho sa ating pampubliko at pribadong sektor ng lipunan, ang inyong kontribusyon ay aming kinikilala at pinahahalagahan. Kayo ang itinuturing na tunay na bayani sa makabagong panahon. Nawa’y ipagpatuloy natin ang pagtahak sa isang maunlad na kinabukasan.
Sa pagpupugay na ito, isang panalangin ang aming isinasamo – ang inyong patuloy na pag-unlad at tagumpay.
SENATE PRESIDENT JUAN MIGUEL ZUBIRI
This country is built on the hard work of our workers. They power our industries, and any economic gains that we make as a country is thanks in large part to their labor.
Despite having a vital role in our economic landscape, however, our workers remain largely undervalued for their contributions. And so, we in the Senate stand with every Filipino worker in fighting for their rights, from better wages to safer workplaces.
Sa Senado, naipasa na natin ang P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act bilang tugon sa panawagan ng ating mga manggagawa. Umaasa kami na maipapasa na rin ito ng Kamara.
HOUSE SPEAKER FERDINAND MARTIN ROMUALDEZ
Filipino workers are known for their exceptional work ethic, creativity, and innate ability to rise above challenges. These attributes have not only fueled our industries at home but have also made them highly respected on the global stage. Our overseas Filipino workers, who brave distance and sacrifice, deserve special recognition for their contributions to both the Philippines and the economies of their host countries.
As we mark this important day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to the welfare of our workers. We must continue to work towards legislation that guarantees fair labor practices, promotes safety and health standards, and ensures that all feel the benefits of our growing economy.
The government is steadfast in its resolve to create more job opportunities and to foster an environment where labor rights are protected and economic opportunities flourish. We pledge to enhance our efforts in equipping our workforce with the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow through robust education and training programs.