On the commemoration of International Labor Day, the Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) joins workers and progressive organizations in a mass mobilization in Manila, echoing the urgent call for the immediate passage of the P200 wage increase. PAHRA underscores that a living wage is not only a labor concern but a human rights issue, as it is essential for Filipinos to enjoy their rights to the fullest including access to food, housing, education, and health care.


“The P200 wage hike needs to be passed as soon as possible,” said PAHRA Secretary-General Egay Cabalitan in a statement. “Without a living wage, how can one afford rent, send children to school, or access medical care? Enjoying basic rights is impossible when wages fall short of daily survival.”


Cabalitan emphasized that without a living wage, workers are denied the ability to enjoy other fundamental rights such as education, housing, and health. Low wages trap families in a cycle of poverty, making it nearly impossible to live with dignity.


“Hindi pwedeng sabihin na may karapatan ang manggagawa kung wala siyang kakayahang tustusan ang kanyang pamilya. Kapag ang sahod ay kulang, kinakain ng gutom ang karapatang mabuhay nang may dignidad. Ang makataong sahod ay kailangan para sa buhay na ligtas, sapat, at patas para sa lahat.” said Cabalitan.


He also highlighted its “Doseng Karapat-Dapat” Human Rights Electoral Agenda launched last April, which includes upholding the rights and dignity of workers as one of its core pillars. The agenda calls on candidates for the 2025 elections to commit to policies that support fair wages, decent working conditions, and labor rights.


“Ngayong eleksyon, pumili tayo ng mga lider na kikilalanin ang karapatan ng manggagawa bilang karapatang pantao. Mga lider na magsusulong ng batas para sa makatarungang sahod at disenteng pamumuhay.”