The IYCW Asia-Pacific (ASPAC) delegation proudly participated in the 13th National Congress of Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) held in Baguio City, Philippines. The Congress provided an important platform for workers, trade unionists, and allied organizations to reflect on the past seven years of the labor movement. It was a time to assess both the victories and the persistent challenges that continue to shape the lives of Filipino workers.

The Congress highlighted the deepening crises faced by the working class in the Philippines and across the world. Discussions pointed to the growing problems of landlessness among farmers, stagnant wages, massive job insecurity caused by contractualization, and the continuous increase in the prices of basic commodities. On top of these, workers and unionists continue to suffer from harassment, repression, and even extrajudicial killings. These conditions reveal the harsh realities that workers must resist every day.

Yet, amidst these alarming issues, the Congress became a space of hope and collective strength. It successfully gathered KMU members, federations, allied organizations, and supporters, fostering unity and solidarity. The assembly showed that despite the attacks, the labor movement remains alive and determined to push forward. The spirit of grassroots resistance was visible, with participants expressing their firm commitment to defend the rights and dignity of workers.

The Congress also identified key tasks to further advance the struggle. These include intensifying the education of workers about their rights, strengthening organizing efforts, and mobilizing the broader community to support labor campaigns. Priority actions were laid out, such as the fight for a living wage, secure and regular jobs, the protection of human rights, and the active resistance against state-sponsored disinformation that seeks to discredit the labor movement.

The election of new KMU national officers signaled a renewed energy and collective leadership for the coming years. Their task is clear: to continue uniting workers and to build a more powerful and fearless movement that will challenge systems of oppression and exploitation. With continued solidarity among workers in the Philippines and throughout Asia-Pacific, the struggle for decent work, justice, and a better future will persist.