As Labor Day approaches, hundreds of workers representing various trade unions have joined forces to demand not just solidarity but also a legislated wage hike.
Promising to intensify their efforts, workers are gearing up for assemblies, consultations, and collective actions to push for wage increases that meet the standards of a family living wage (FLW) across all industries.
Charlie Arevalo, Spokesperson for Unity for Wage Increase Now, emphasized the necessity for minimum wages to align with FLW standards, citing constitutional mandates and international labor agreements.
Former Bayan Muna Representative Ferdinand Gaite highlighted the plight of government workers, noting that even the basic pay falls short of providing a decent standard of living.
Jerome Adonis, Secretary General of Kilusang Mayo Uno, expressed concerns over proposed Charter changes, fearing they could facilitate full foreign takeover and further exacerbate wage disparities.
Sonny Africa, Executive Director of IBON Foundation, underscored the inadequacy of current wage rates, emphasizing that private firms possess the capacity to raise wages given their robust revenue growth.
Amidst these demands, the Associated Labor Unions urged Congress to enact a P150 across-the-board daily wage hike for private sector employees, though business groups remain opposed, preferring regional wage setting by tripartite boards.
As the rallying cry for fair wages grows louder, workers are determined to stand united in their pursuit of economic justice.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #WageHike #FLW #IBONFoundation