Rising prices are set to take center stage as workers in Cebu prepare to mark Labor Day with a protest demanding higher wages and government action on the cost-of-living crisis.
Labor groups will hold a May 1, 2026 mobilization in Cebu, joining nationwide actions led by Workers for People’s Liberation (WPL)-Cebu, sectoral organizations under Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya (KILUSAN), and allied groups.
The march will begin at 8:30 a.m. from GMC Plaza near Plaza Independencia and will proceed to Gaisano South, where organizers will stage a short program to present their demands.
Organizers said they will highlight worsening economic conditions, citing inflation that rose to 4.1 percent in March from 2.4 percent in February.
They attributed the increase to oil price shocks linked to the Middle East conflict and a sharp depreciation of the local currency, noting it was the highest rate since July 2024 when inflation reached 4.4 percent.
Labor groups said wages have remained at minimum levels despite rising prices, leaving workers struggling to meet daily needs.
They said workers continue to face reduced working hours, forced leave arrangements, and job insecurity.
Vendors have reported declining income due to weaker consumer spending, while farmers and fisherfolk are dealing with higher fuel and production costs.
Transport workers also raised concerns, with jeepney drivers reportedly working 14 to 18 hours a day but earning only P200 to P300.
Some drivers have also been excluded from government subsidy programs, further affecting their income.
Organizers said many workers have resorted to skipping meals, walking long distances to save on transportation, and lining up for basic commodities as they cope with rising expenses.
Aside from economic demands, the groups will also raise issues on governance and foreign policy.
They criticized corruption in government and called for accountability, including the return of alleged stolen public funds.
They also urged the government to take a position on global conflicts, calling for the condemnation of what they described as U.S.-backed military actions in Palestine, Lebanon, and Iran, and for policies that uphold national sovereignty and neutrality.
Labor leaders laid out their demands, including a living wage, an end to contractualization, removal of excise tax and EVAT on oil products, repeal of Republic Act 8479 or the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Law, and a P200 emergency cost of living allowance.
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