Despite the heavy downpour, protesters were back on the streets on Monday, July 22, ahead of the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Human rights and civil society groups brought attention to a range of issues confronting the administration— low wages, militarization of the West Philippine Sea, and the displacement of fishermen due to reclamation projects.
The protesters carried effigies and tarpaulins for a colorful march on Commonwealth Avenue near Batasang Pambansa, an annual tradition to present important issues ahead of SONA speeches of Philippine presidents.
Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno called for the increase of national minimum wage to P1,200.
Later in his speech, Marcos announced that a pay hike for government workers is in the works. “Mayroon ding napipintong omento sa suweldo na makukuha nila sa apat na tranches. Naglaan na tayo ng pondo para rito simula sa taong ito at sa mga susunod na taon,” Marcos said in his speech.
But the labor groups on Monday also called for the abolition of Republic Act No. 6727 of the Wage Rationalization Act.
Groups also called for the demilitarization of the West Philippine Sea, urging Marcos to pursue an independent foreign policy that does not rely on either US and China. In his speech, Marcos underscored the importance of working with allies.
Protesteres also slammed the feud between President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, who did not attend the SONA this year. — PCIJ.org
