WHILE workers skipped a non-working holiday commemorating Labor Day and opted to go to the streets to assail the government’s dismal failure to address their concerns amid the pandemic, the President claims they’re vigorously working to ensure their rights, including security of tenure.
“To all Filipino workers here and abroad, let me assure you that this administration will endeavor to work as vigorously as you have in creating an environment where security of tenure, statutory labor standards, and workers’ rights are not only upheld and protected, but also cherished as the foundations of a strong and thriving workforce,” said Duterte in his Labor Day message.
“This year, we honor our Filipino workers who – fueled not just by the desire to support their families and advance their careers – have tirelessly toiled these past several months to ensure that our society will continue to function in the face of an unprecedented health crisis that crippled industries across the world,” he added.
Labor groups trooped to the streets and held the traditional Labor Day protest, calling for higher wages, pandemic aid paid pandemic leave.
Workers also assailed the government’s insincerity in addressing their concerns, as some distressed workers have yet still to receive any financial aid.
In his message, Duterte also honored healthcare workers and other frontliners who “sustained our communities and industries during these difficult times.”
“On behalf of a grateful nation, I express my deepest gratitude to our hardworking healthcare workers and essential frontliners for their unwavering commitment in ensuring the unhampered delivery of goods and services that continue to sustain our communities and industries during these difficult times,” the President further averred.