Special Advisory on 2026 Labor Day
Labor groups will hold demonstrations at traditional Metro Manila venues on the May 1, 2026 holiday. No widespread violence is forecasted, but foreign nationals must strictly avoid all demonstrations to prevent deportation.
Executive Summary:
- May 1, Labor Day, is a regular holiday in the Philippines. Work and classes nationwide are suspended on this day.
- Labor groups, trade unions, and sector alliances are expected to hold rallies and demonstrations on this day in traditional protest sites in Metro Manila. At least one group has confirmed their plans to protest on this day, but the time and location of the protest have not yet been disclosed as of writing.
- PSA Intelligence also assesses the likelihood of protests occurring in front of the US Embassy in Pasay and/or headquarters of oil companies in the Philippines due to the current context of high fuel prices, the Middle East conflict, and recent labor disputes, such as the layoff of around 70 noodle house workers.
- PSA Intelligence expects a larger turnout for this year's Labor Day protests than in previous years, driven by both national concerns and persistent labor issues like wages and contractualization.
- PSA Intelligence does not forecast significant security concerns arising from these protests. PSA Intelligence does not expect these demonstrations to devolve into targeted violent attacks against particular groups of people or companies, or widespread civil disobedience. Meanwhile, minor altercations between protesters and law enforcement are possible, but are considered unlikely to escalate beyond a manageable level for police personnel.
- PSA Intelligence reminds clients that the Philippine government may deport foreigners participating in any form of protest.
- As of writing, no road closures or rerouting schemes have been announced for Friday, May 1 in Metro Manila.
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