Manila, Philippines — July 19, 2025 In a significant show of solidarity, the International Young Christian Workers Asia-Pacific (IYCW ASPAC) and YCW Philippines actively participated in a Trade Union talk convened by EILER, a labor research and education organization. The forum aimed to critically examine the conditions faced by workers under the Marcos administration, shedding light on the worsening state of labor rights in the country.

Participants from various sectors highlighted a range of pressing issues: persistently low wages, the rise of precarious employment, and an alarming increase in human rights violations. These concerns echoed across the testimonies shared, painting a stark picture of the challenges that continue to undermine workers’ dignity and livelihoods.

The event underscored a fundamental problem—weak social protection mechanisms that fail to safeguard the welfare of Filipino workers. As a response, the discussion moved for a collective action. A unified call emerged to amplify demands for substantial wage increases (national minimum wage across the board), secure and regular employment, and the defense of essential workers’ rights, such as the freedom to form and join unions and call for accountability from public officials.

The dialogue concluded with a commitment to strengthen collaboration across sectors and communities, reaffirming the importance of grassroots efforts and collective organizing in shaping policies that truly respect and uplift the working class.