MANILA, Philippines - Some 100 protesters led by the militant group Migrante International march to Mendiola in Manila Saturday to observe the weeklong Migrant Workers Day.
The demonstrators assailed the Arroyo administration for alleged exploitation and neglect of overseas Filipino workers and their families.
They were joined by other militant groups such as Anak Pawis, Kilusang Mayo Uno and Kadamay.
The protesters march from Recto Avenue to the historic Chino Roces Bridge (formerly Mendiola) near Malacañang Palace, where they burned boxes with the picture of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and the labor export policy of the government.
Some 200 uniformed policemen guarded the road leading to the Palace.
Authorities allowed the protesters to hold their program, which ended peacefully late afternoon.
Meanwhile, Labor Department Secretary Marianito Roque, also concurrent chief of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), led the celebration of Migrant Workers Day dubbed Pasasalamat sa OFW" at the Ninoy Aquino Memorial Stadium Saturday.
Roque recognized the sacrifices of OFWs and overseas Filipinos for their contribution to the economy.
Roque awarded the outstanding OFWs, including 95-year old Amador Javier who was named the most senior surviving migrant worker. - GMANews.TV