DOLE representatives summoned by Provincial Council to address minimum wage violations in Palawan

Palawan, Philippines – In response to reports of certain private business establishments in the province allegedly failing to comply with the prescribed minimum wage for Palaweño workers, the Committee on Special Concerns of the 44th Sangguniang Panlalawigan is set to invite representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) MIMAROPA and DOLE Palawan next week.

The invitation aims to discuss the issue at hand and seek clarifications from DOLE regarding the reported violations, according to Board Member Ryan Maminta.

“I rise today to bring to the attention of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to act accordingly on the matters relayed and referred to in this representation pertaining to violations and non-implementation of the minimum wage as issued by the Regional Wage Board in some parts of the province of Palawan. It does not only pertain to the strict implementation of the minimum wage, however, it also includes the non-provision of the rightfully accorded benefits for the employees,” said Maminta.

The Committee on Special Concerns is committed to ensuring the welfare and rights of workers in Palawan, and this scheduled meeting serves as a proactive step towards addressing the alleged non-compliance with the minimum wage.

According to Maminta, the prescribed minimum wage plays a vital role in safeguarding the interests of workers, providing them with fair compensation for their labor and ensuring their well-being. It is essential for businesses to adhere to these wage regulations to promote equitable and just working conditions.

He acknowledged the significance of maintaining a harmonious labor environment, where the rights and welfare of workers are protected by holding accountable those who allegedly violate minimum wage regulations. The province also aims to uphold labor standards and promote a fair and just working environment for all Palaweño employees.

“Ang katwiran kasi sa mga munisipyo ay importante nang may ibinigay na trabaho, kailangan pa bang tama ang ipasuweldo? Ginoong tagapanguna, ito po ay hindi katanggap-tanggap sapagkat sa tamang pagsunod sa mga alituntunin ay dapat tama din ang ibinibigay na benepisyo at sahod sa mga empleyadong gumagawa. Dahil sa lubhang hirap ng buhay, naiintindihan din naman natin ang mga medium enterprises na tila nagtitipid sila pero at the end of the day, kailangan po nating sumunod sa batas at sa alituntunin,” he said during his privilege speech.

Aside from the invitation for DOLE MIMAROPA and DOLE Palawan, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan also invited representatives from the Provincial Public Employment Services Office (PESO).

The representatives of the said agencies are expected to provide insights, guidance, and recommendations to address the reported violations. Their expertise will be valuable in determining appropriate measures and enforcing compliance among private business establishments in Palawan.

The outcome of the meeting will be closely monitored, and appropriate actions will be taken to ensure that private business establishments in Palawan adhere to the prescribed minimum wage.

It can be recalled that in June 2022, the wage increase for Palaweño workers was implemented, wherein the designated minimum wage rate was set at P355 based on Wage Order No. RB-MIMAROPA-10 issued by the DOLE Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.