Workers of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) under the Manila Toll Expressway System Inc. (MATES) stopped work and operations on April 4 to demand a wage increase and additional benefits. The workers’ union set up a strike along the northbound lane of the expressway and held a program there.

The workers and the union asserted their rights amid four years of zero significant wage increases and benefits from SLEX management. In addition, the workers are fighting for the reinstatement of illegally terminated employees and to expedite the two-year-long negotiations for the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

A worker said at a program that they wanted to convey to SLEX management and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) their “struggle, what the union is fighting for, protection for jobs and improvement in their benefits.”

They sought support and understanding from motorists passing through SLEX. The worker added, “We hope you also understand the situation of other workers like those in SLEX.” Passing motorists and truck drivers honked their horns in support of the workers.

“Now, you know—many already know how SLEX handles workers…they are blatantly harassing us,” he said.

He was referring to SLEX management deliberately delaying negotiations for the CBA. He said that while management sits at the negotiation table, they offer nothing for the workers. The SLEX management is also undermining the union by illegally terminating employees, including closing a department that affected at least 10 workers.

“Until this is resolved, we will continue to hold protests,” he said. SLEX management attempted to stop them. Additionally, replacement employees and patrollers reportedly arrived to manage traffic flow on SLEX.

DOLE representatives arrived on the day of the strike. Workers expect a response to their grievances and progress in their CBA negotiations.

Transportation leader and senatorial candidate Mody Floranda expressed support for SLEX workers. He said that while SLEX earns massive profits from privatization and increased toll fees, its workers’ wages and benefits are being repressed.

In 2024, SLEX raised toll fees, earning ₱3.96 billion from this increase in just the first half of 2024. SLEX is a highway privatized under San Miguel Corporation, whose current CEO is Ramon Ang. Ang is the fourth richest businessman in the country. According to Forbes, his net worth amounts to $3.8 billion.