The Manila Police District on Thursday barred several labor groups from holding a protest in Mendiola during Labor Day demonstrations.
Hundreds of workers joined mobilizations that began at Liwasang Bonifacio and marched through España Boulevard. The protest was halted along Recto Avenue in front of the University of the East, where police blocked demonstrators from proceeding to Mendiola.
The protesters called for a wage hike, demanding the minimum wage be raised to P1,200, citing the soaring cost of basic goods and electricity.
Labor group representatives said current wages are no longer enough to meet the daily needs of ordinary workers amid rising inflation.