MANILA — The Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) expressed serious concern over the rising number of unemployed Filipinos, warning that the country’s jobs crisis could worsen amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

In a statement, the labor federation criticized the government of Bongbong Marcos for relying on short-term measures such as job fairs and foreign investment promotions, describing these as insufficient solutions to the country’s structural employment challenges.

KMU said many of the jobs being created are temporary, contractual, and low-wage positions with poor labor conditions, leaving workers vulnerable to layoffs and exploitation.

The group warned that rising oil prices and production costs driven by the Middle East conflict could prompt businesses to implement layoffs and wage cuts under the guise of cost-saving measures. It cited the recently proposed four-day workweek scheme as an example, which KMU said could reduce wages, eliminate overtime pay, and extend working hours for employees.

The labor group also highlighted the plight of overseas Filipino workers who may be forced to return home due to the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran. KMU said returning OFWs could face a bleak local labor market, with limited job opportunities and rising poverty.

KMU called for a long-term solution to the jobs crisis through national industrialization, emphasizing the need to develop domestic industries that can provide sufficient and decent employment for all Filipinos.

“Workers and fellow Filipinos: in the face of the deepening global crisis, we must stand together to demand job security. Workers must unite, organize, build unions, and take action to defend our livelihoods,” the group said.