Editorial

Labor and quality of life

It is known that the labor movement, which led to the recognition of the rights of workers, is a history of struggle. The said movement, now a global celebration, traces its roots to the US when the imposed 10- to 16-hour work day had caused unrest among laborers, who fought for fair distribution of resources and proper treatment. Backed by socialist groups, demonstrations filled up the streets, which eventually led to violence, deaths, and imprisonment of some organizers. At present, May 1, the day when thousands of business and workers paraded the streets in the US, is recognized by 66 countries, including the Philippines, as International Worker’s Day, or locally known as Labor Day in the country. 

In the Philippines, the first recorded Labor Day celebration transpired on May 1, 1903, when Filipino workers retaliated against the treatment of American firms, forcing them to do labor up to 12 hours a day. Thousands of workers marched from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacanang Palace, then the seat of the governor general of the Philippines, to demand for fairer working conditions and complete independence. Later on, the labor movement in the country flourished, as issues continue to plague the lives of laborers such as (but not limited to) contractualization, increasing unemployment rate, and disregard of labor rights and human dignity in workplaces.

Under the new circumstances, given the adverse effects of COVID-19 to the country’s economy and labor sector, both businesses and employees have continued to suffer. The former is burdened by additional costs from ensuring safe working environments, prioritizing the welfare of employees through health and relief assistance, and losing income due to restricted movement and dwindling tourism. The latter is overtaxed by retrenchments, underpayments, inability to sustain their family’s basic needs, threats of COVID-19 especially for frontliners, among others. Given this, safety nets – offering job opportunities to those who were removed from office due to COVID-19, giving assistance to businesses through loans and grants to recover from their losses, distributing hazard payments, and gradual opening of tourism sites – are important. Short term assistance (i.e., relief distribution) can only do so much. Families can have food on their table today, but their tomorrow remains uncertain. Hence, solutions that are responsive to long term needs have to be prioritized.  

Apart from Labor Day, the world also recognized the welfare of employees in workplaces on April 28. The “World Day for Safety and Health at Work” gave emphasis on the importance of occupational safety and health, mitigation and management of psychosocial risks, and establishment of conducive working environments. Through these mechanisms, employees are able to fulfill their jobs without any form of discrimination and oppression. This, above all, will ensure dignified work, while allowing employees or workers to achieve growth and development in their chosen fields of expertise.

The struggle to achieve a humane and dignified labor is simply grounded on the idea that “everybody is human being”. Everybody deserves to be treated well. Everybody needs to harness their skills and grow their visions. Everybody deserves quality of life.