Clashes Erupt Near US Embassy in Manila During Labor Day Protest

01/05/2026

MANILA, May 1: Workers and police clashed near the United States Embassy, Manila on Friday as thousands gathered in the Philippine capital to mark Labor Day.

The rally was led by the groups Bagong Alyansang Makabayan and Kilusang Mayo Uno, which gathered along España Boulevard before marching towards the American embassy area.

Labor groups and human rights organisations held their annual demonstration calling for higher wages and tax relief amid rising living costs and an ongoing fuel price crisis. Protesters demanded an increase in the minimum daily wage to ₱1,200, along with the removal of value-added tax (VAT) and excise duties on fuel.

During the demonstration, Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Sarah Elago said sustained collective action remained crucial in advancing workers’ rights and social reforms, noting that past human rights gains were achieved through mass mobilisation.