BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
Every drop of sweat, every hour spent at work, and every act of service by workers form the strong foundation of a progressive nation.
That’s why every May 1st, the country observes Labor Day, a celebration that recognizes and honors the contributions of workers to society.
The origins of Labor Day date back to the 1800s when laborers in the United States protested against long working hours.
They demanded an eight-hour workday instead of enduring 10 to 16 hours with little to no rest.
On May 1, 1886, thousands marched in Chicago in what would be known as the Haymarket Affair, a defining moment in labor history.
In the Philippines, Labor Day was first celebrated on May 1, 1903.
Organized by the Union Obrera Democratica, the first labor federation in the country, thousands of workers marched from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacañang to demand better working conditions.
Since then, Labor Day has been marked every year as a tribute to the vital role of workers not only in driving the economy forward but also in shaping our society.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) continues to create policies and conduct research to improve workers’ welfare. Celebrations include job fairs, protest actions, and awards for outstanding laborers.
Despite ongoing challenges, Labor Day reminds us that the strength of a nation lies in the hands of the people who work diligently every day.
