Marcos on Labor Day: Gov’t an ‘active partner’ of workers

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Labor Day vowed to provide concrete measures to address the needs of Filipino workers and their families, emphasizing that the government is committed to being an “active partner” in building a fair and just society.

“Nararapat lamang na ang pagdiriwang na ito ay gawin nating pagkakataon upang bumuo ng mga kongkretong hakbang upang matugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng bawat pamilya, matiyak ang kaligtasan sa lugar ng trabaho, at mapangalagaan ang karapatang makamit ang magandang kinabukasan,” Marcos said in his May 1 message.

[Translation: We must use this occasion to create concrete steps to meet the needs of every family, ensure workplace safety, and protect the right to a better future.]

He assured workers that their role in the nation’s progress is recognized and valued, stressing that policies under his administration will reflect the dignity of those who strive every day.

“Inyong matitiyak na ang pamahalaan ay hindi lamang tagapagmasid sa pag-unlad, kung hindi aktibong katuwang ng sambayanan sa paglikha ng Bagong Pilipinas kung saan ang lipunan ay patas at makatarungan,” he said.

[Translation: You can be assured that the government is not merely an observer of progress, but an active partner of the people in creating a New Philippines where society is fair and just.]

Marcos acknowledged that the country’s development rests on the shoulders of its workers and said the government will continue to pursue programs that support their growth and prosperity.

“Taimtim ang aming paninindigang kayo ay hindi pababayaan, bagkus ay higit pang itataguyod—hindi bilang tungkulin lamang, kung hindi bilang pasasalamat at pagkilala sa inyong tunay na halaga at sakripisyo,” he added.

[Translation: We are deeply committed to not abandoning you, but to further uplift you—not merely as a duty, but as an expression of gratitude and recognition of your true worth and sacrifice.]