May 01, 2026
The current reality for the working class has become a battlefield as the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has prioritized corruption, fascism, and war, continuously turning a blind eye to the needs of workers for bare minimum survival. Our mobilization today is not only in commemoration but in dissent of the Marcos Jr. administration and the US-Israel war on West Asia.
The Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines stands in solidarity with global workers in the struggle for wage, labor, and rights, especially in this time of crisis driven by global conflict waged by US-Israel. Alongside grave human rights violations, the resources powering their military and strengthening the war come from the very same resources that are denied to or disrupted in US colonies such as the Philippines. The global unrest has fueled rising oil prices and has dampened the ability of workers to prioritize survival.
As a fundamental commodity, the rising cost of fuel triggered the inflation in the price of basic goods, transportation, and agricultural inputs, much more devaluing the already low wages of workers. The purchasing power of an average Filipino worker is being hollowed out by the Marcos Jr. regime, more so with the value-added tax on fuel and basic goods, while billions are channeled into corruption. However, the refusal to remove VAT on fuel and basic goods only shows the disdain of this administration for the relief of workers during a crisis.
Today, we further demand the urgent passage of the P1,200 Living Wage, address the needs of Filipino families and workers, and scrap VAT and excise tax on fuel. We also amplify long-standing calls to remove the regional wage boards, which have become a hurdle to achieving liveable wages for workers, end contractualization, and uphold the right to form and join unions.
Our message is clear: the militant history of Labor Day is not merely for honoring the successes of workers’ resistance, but to continue the fight. As we call climate advocates to unite with workers, we recognize that all successes in the struggle require us to hold the line together.
End the US-Israel war in West Asia! We demand the Marcos Jr. administration for a livable wage, price control, and expanded subsidies now!
Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines 