Kilusang Mayo Uno-South Mindanao Region (SMR) demanded justice for the death of a worker while working at the Samal Island-Davao City (SIDC) Connector Bridge in Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal. Welmar Melecio Lagunsay, 25, a resident of Esperanza, Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte, fell on July 23 while preparing to pour cement at the construction site. He died on the way to the hospital.

KMU-SMR extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased worker.

“The incident is not an isolated case,” the group stated. “This reflects the lack or absence of occupational safety and health standards (OSHS) in many workplaces across the country.”

In the past six months alone, the Institute for Occupational Health and Safety Development (IOHSAD) recorded 153 workers’ deaths at work sites and 255 injuries.

In light of this, KMU-SMR held the Marcos regime accountable for its neglect of workers’ welfare and safety. Philippine governments, including that of Marcos Jr, have long endangered the lives of workers for capitalist profit, it said.

“China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), the company managing the construction of the SIDC Bridge, must pay for the burial and other expenses of the Lagunsay family,” KMU-SMR stated. Justice must be given to the death of Lagunsay and other victims of OSHS standards violations.

Construction of the SIDC Connector Bridge began amid strong opposition from fishing communities, residents of Samal Island, and environmental groups, because it wrecks the ocean and the livelihoods of the people.