MANILA, Philippines -- Labor groups that were dispersed by anti-riot policemen in front of the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) in Intramuros Thursday night returned there Friday to hold an indignation rally and condemn the violent dispersal.

The protesters said they were planning to march to Mendiola.

Earlier in the day, the protesters also held a rally in front of the Manila Police District headquarters on United Nations Avenue and demanded the release of four of their colleagues who were arrested during Thursday?s dispersal.

On that day, some 300 farmers and workers who claimed they were unjustly fired from various companies had camped out in front of the DoLE building to ask for an audience with Labor Secretary Arturo Brion but were asked by police to leave.

The rally turned violent when the workers clashed with anti-riot policemen, prompting firefighters to use water cannons.

At least 18 protesters and policemen were hurt during the dispersal.