The sun hasn’t shined yet, but the streets were already filled with the noise of cars and jeepneys honking because of the heavy traffic and the complaints of some because of the long line for riding the LRT or MRT station or other vehicles. It was always like that; the only time that the streets aren’t like that is, of course, at midnight. Nonetheless, these are always the common problems that commuters, especially laborers, have to face. Let’s add the extreme heat because of the global warming that everyone has to face. Yet, as I stopped and looked around, everything became more clear. Everyone is moving forward; no matter how hard their job or day is, they endure and keep on doing their thing. Some stop to rest, but after that, they continue what they are doing. And that’s what keeps this society moving and growing; it’s because of the laborers, no matter what their job is, who work hard just to provide for their families and themselves.
Labor Day, also known as "Araw ng mga Manggagawa," is observed every year in recognition of the bravery of more than 100,000 workers who marched from Tondo's Plaza Moriones to Malacanang under the banner of "Union Obrera Democratica de Filipina'' of U.O.D.F. to demand better working conditions and fair wages from the then-American-led government. This occasion, which took place on May 1, 1903, is regarded as the birth of Labor Day. The first day of May was declared a national holiday by the Philippine Assembly on April 8, 1908, and the Labor Code of the Philippines was signed by former president Ferdinand E. Marcos on May 1, 1974.
So as we celebrate Labor Day and enjoy this one-day vacation, may we be reminded to be thankful to those laborers. From farmers, the government, doctors and nurses, drivers of jeepneys or other forms of public transportation, front-line employees, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), etc. Also, let’s not forget our professors, especially the school staff, who keep our school clean so that we can have a better learning environment. Last but not least, our parents, who work tirelessly to support us and give us a better future. A day of appreciation pales in comparison to the sacrifices made by laborers, especially those who spoke out on their behalf so that every one may receive fair wages, exercise their rights, or work in a better environment. They truly are our generation's modern-day heroes.
“Mabuhay ang Manggagawang Pilipino!”
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