Malacañang said Wednesday that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not yet issued any directive regarding the proposed legislated P200 wage increase, emphasizing instead the role of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in addressing wage concerns.
“The President has directed that we follow what is in the Labor Code. He has also ordered the RTWPB to review wages in all regions,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a news briefing.
“So far, 16 regions have already conducted reviews, and some have even implemented wage increases,” she added.
The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) is urging President Marcos to push for the immediate passage of a legislated P200 wage hike, citing the economic challenges of workers amid increasing prices of goods and services.
Castro reiterated that wage adjustments must balance the needs of both employers and employees to ensure fair and sustainable salary levels.
When asked if the President was inclined to certify the legislated wage hike as urgent, Castro said, “As of now, there is no directive regarding that. But the President acted quickly in directing the RTWPB review.”
The proposed wage hike remains pending in Congress.
The Palace indicated that while the President oversees the executive branch, legislative matters such as wage hikes are within Congress’ jurisdiction.
“The President’s focus is on what will benefit the people,” Castro said.
“The wage board allows for quicker action and directives to provide relief to our citizens,” she added.