The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Western Visayas started its review of the minimum wage, in response to President Marcos’ directive to assess wage standards nationwide during the recent 126th Independence Day celebrations.
This move marks the beginning of a crucial period where wage standards will be scrutinized and potentially revised to reflect current economic conditions and public demands.
On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, the RTWPB held its regular meeting to discuss the necessary data for the wage review process.
Lawyer Sixto Rodriguez, Jr., the director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Western Visayas and RTWPB chairperson, emphasized the importance of the review process, stating, “We aim to ensure that the wage levels are fair and just, reflecting the economic realities of our region.”
The current wage order will expire on November 16, 2024, and the board has been granted a 60-day cooling-off period to deliberate on the wage adjustments.
The RTWPB is tasked with considering a wide range of factors, including the demands from workers, the socioeconomic status of the region, and the ability of employers to meet the proposed wage increases.
Currently, the minimum wage in Western Visayas is P480 for employers with more than 10 employees, P450 for those with 10 or fewer, and P440 for the agriculture sector.
Pending legislation, Senate Bill No. 2534, proposes a nationwide P100 increase in the minimum wage—a measure that has passed the third reading in the Senate and is awaiting the House of Representatives’ version before it is sent to Malacañang for President Marcos’ approval.
This proposed increase has heightened public expectations and pressure on the RTWPB to address wage disparities promptly.
The board is set to convene again in September 2024 to further discuss the implications of the proposed wage adjustments.
The RTWPB has yet to receive any formal petitions from labor groups in Western Visayas, but public consultations are planned to gauge sentiments and ensure a balanced approach to wage policy.
Rodriguez highlighted the need for a thorough review, saying, “It’s essential that we balance the demands for higher wages with the economic capacity of businesses to ensure that any increase is sustainable and beneficial for both workers and employers.”