Thousands of workers across Panama turned out for marches and rallies on   Labor Day, Tuesday, May 1.

They were reinforced with homilies and platitudes from politicians and party hacks, extolling the dignity of labor while work on 260 construction  projects is at a standstill as the employers’ association, Capac,  stands firm on its two cents an hour  pay raise offer, and the Suntracs union refuses what it has called “crumbs.”

Bargaining, which has dragged on for over six months will resume on Wednesday with the government hinting at arbitration.

Activities in the capital city, began early with a mass in the Don Bosco basilica, in Calidonia followed by a march from Parque Porras, scene of a mass  Siuntracs gathering on Monday, to Plaza Cinco de Mayo.

Meanwhile, associations and unions of construction workers, fishermen, and educators paraded to the beat of tamborito through the streets of the Santiago. in the province of Veraguas

Union parades took place in David, Chiriqui, and Bocas del Toro.

Meanwhile, President Varela Tweeted: “Thanks to your efforts, Panama continues to grow, with your work and the commitment you put to what you do, we continue to build this Nation, Happy # Day of the Worker."