Manila: Workers and union members across the globe took to the streets on International Workers' Day, May 1, to demand basic workers' rights, leading to sporadic clashes with riot police in several countries.
According to Thai News Agency, the demonstrations were marked by calls for higher wages and better labor conditions, with varying degrees of confrontation reported in different regions.
In the Philippines, over 20,000 workers and activists gathered in Manila to protest against low wages and the economic impact of Middle Eastern conflicts. Demonstrators urged the government to increase the nationwide minimum wage from 500-600 pesos to 1,200 pesos per day. Minor clashes occurred near the US embassy as police deployed water cannons to disperse the crowd, resulting in 60 arrests. Protesters also burned effigies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Donald Trump, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In South Korea, a historic demonstration took place in Seoul, celebrating the first Labor Day as an official public holiday for workers across all sectors. Participants called for enhanced labor rights, including raising the retirement age to 65 and opposing AI usage that threatens job security. The peaceful event saw over 2,500 police officers ensuring order.
Meanwhile, in Turkey, protesters clashed with riot police in Istanbul as they attempted to reach Taksim Square, where political activities have been banned since 2013. Riot police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, arresting 57 individuals. The protest, held under the slogan "Bread, Peace, Freedom," was further fueled by the recent arrest of Istanbul's mayor, perceived by supporters as a politically motivated move.
In Venezuela, acting President Delcy Rodrguez announced a significant increase in the monthly minimum wage and pensions amidst rampant inflation. Despite this, a union march demanding higher wages and pensions was thwarted by police and government rally participants, preventing it from reaching the presidential palace.
In Argentina, thousands rallied in Buenos Aires to oppose President Javier Miles' economic and labor reforms, which critics argue undermine workers' rights. The policies, intended to stimulate investment and employment, have been criticized for extending working hours from eight to twelve hours and eroding labor protections, including the right to strike.