Negros Occidental and Bacolod City officials marked Labor Day on Saturday, May 1, by honoring the workers and the frontliners amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, in a statement, said the indispensable role and contribution of the Filipino labor force to the Filipino nation has long been acknowledged.
“Today’s Labor Day takes a novel and a more solemn meaning as we commemorate this day in the thick of a global health and economic crisis,” he said.
The past year has shown us not just the industry of the Filipino. We have witnessed in the raw, the passion, commitment, self-sacrifice, and bravery of our workers so courageously displayed to meet the needs of everyone — may it be healthcare, food production, security, logistics, or other essential functions. With these, we restate our profound gratitude, esteem, and appreciation”, Lacson said.
He also said the provincial government is will support the welfare and protection of the Negrense workforce.
Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia said he doesn’t know where the city would be without labor.
“I salute the men and women of our labor force…special mention to our frontliners and the people who care for us. I want to express our admiration and appreciation to our frontliners,” he added.
Meanwhile, progressive groups held a Labor Day protest at the major street of downtown Bacolod.
They called on the government to end contractualization, and increase the worker’s salaries.*