The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (PCCI) leadership acknowledged that the recently approved PHP35.00 per day wage hike for private sector workers in the National Capital Region (NCR) as a reasonable step to improve the lives of the working class.
While mindful of the potential strain on businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the PCCI assured that its members in Metro Manila will comply with the new minimum wage.
“We respect the wage board’s decision. Our focus now is monitoring the impact on MSMEs, the backbone of our economy, as they adjust to higher labor costs,” said PCCI president Enunina Mangio.
The business leader highlighted the need to consider businesses’ challenges.
The PHP35.00 increase, she believes, strikes a fairer balance compared to the earlier proposed PHP100 hike, which could have led to business closures and job losses.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) echoed the sentiment, viewing the wage increase as a positive step towards worker well-being.
Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual acknowledged the timeliness of the adjustment, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to improving workers’ quality of life.
“By aligning with the latest regional poverty threshold, the wage increase signifies our dedication to equitable growth and economic inclusivity,” he added.
Recognizing that small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are more susceptible to economic pressures like rising wages, the DTI chief said his agency is prepared to offer a comprehensive support system to boost their resilience and competitive edge.
He noted that the DTI’s programs focus on equipping SMEs with the necessary skills and knowledge through workshops and training sessions.
The agency is also actively promoting digital transformation by encouraging the adoption of e-commerce solutions and automation tools.
Furthermore, the DTI facilitates market access through trade fairs and e-commerce platforms, simplifies business registration processes, and provides shared service facilities with advanced equipment, all aimed at empowering SMEs for growth and success.
“We will collaborate with stakeholders to monitor the impact and facilitate a smooth adaptation process. Our goal is to foster an environment where both workers and businesses thrive, driving sustained economic growth and improving our nation’s socio-economic landscape,” Pascual said.
Meanwhile, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said employers have the responsibility to adjust the salary of workers to maintain the gap between wages amid the recent adjustment of minimum wage in Metro Manila
He said there is a mechanism for adjusting the wages so it would not cause demoralization in the workforce.