On May 1, 2025, Labor Day, labor groups alongside progressive activists, and rights advocates marched from Liwasang Bonifacio to Mendiola, Manila but were stopped at Recto Avenue by barbed wire fences and riot police where a scuffle between the two parties ensued. The protesters call for a standardization of the wages across the country as well as for better working conditions and job security. (Photos by Kenosis Yap and Jyor So )
A police officer attempts to take his shield from the protesters during the brief clash. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)Protesters grab a riot police officer by his riot gear after the riot police forces moved towards the protesters. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)Riot police pull on the barbed wire fences to keep them from being pulled away by the protesters who are attempting to march to the Mendiola Peace Arch. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)Elmer “Ka Bong” Labong, National Chairperson of Kilusang Mayo Uno delivers a speech after the effigy of the Philippine and United States Presidents Marcos and Trump are destroyed by the protesters. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)Activists and progressive groups hold up their signs calling for higher wages, lower commodity prices, and for union busting to stop. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)Hundreds of protesters hold up their signs, placards, and banners in support of the workers and to advocate for better working conditions, lower prices, and higher wages. (Photo: Kenosis Yap)During a cultural performance, labor leaders and organizers destroy the effigy of the Philippine and United States presidents with hammers and flags. (Photo: Jyor So)After the clash between the police and protesters, a standoff ensued whilst the program proper of the protest was underway. (Photo: Jyor So)Activists and protesters link their arms to protect each other as they are on the front lines against the riot police. (Photo: Jyor So)Arms linked, activists and protesters attempt to keep the police away from the crowd and each other. (Photo: Jyor So)Hundreds of protesters, workers, and activists calling for better working conditions, higher wages, and lower prices of commodities are seen marching from Liwasang Bonifacio to Mendiola, Manila. (Photo: Jyor So)Protesters hold up signs calling for liveable wages and a stop to contractualization. (Photo: Jyor So)
Mata Press 
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