Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada urged employers of domestic workers, known as “kasambahay,” in Metro Manila and the Caraga region to comply with new wage increases effective this month.
He emphasized that domestic workers have personal needs that must be addressed amid rising living costs.
Estrada, also the principal author of Republic Act No. 10361, or the Domestic Workers Act, said that this law protects kasambahays from abuse while ensuring they receive fair wages and are treated with dignity.
“Beyond the monthly wages earned by domestic workers, they also contribute significantly to their employers’ households, enhancing the quality of life for every family they serve on a daily basis,” the Senate leader stated.
As of January 4, 2025, the minimum wage for kasambahays in Metro Manila will increase from P6,500 to P7,000 per month. In the Caraga region, a similar increase will raise domestic workers’ wages by P1,000, bringing their minimum salary to P6,000 starting January 12, 2025.