DOLE consults with puerto princesa workers on wage hike requests across mimaropa

Organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the event focused on reviewing salary demands amidst rising living costs in the region.

Workers’ groups are calling for a wage increase that could range from PHP 30.00 to PHP 100.00 per day, while domestic workers are pushing for a raise from PHP 5,500 to PHP 6,500, in addition to receiving benefits such as SSS and Pag-IBIG contributions.

The employers’ side has also voiced their stance, proposing a more moderate increase, with some suggesting a PHP 30.00 to PHP 40.00 raise, while others advocate for an increase ranging from PHP 41.00 to PHP 50.00. Small businesses have expressed concern, emphasizing that only those businesses capable of handling such increases should implement them.

As of now, the wage proposals will not be finalized until after another consultation in Oriental Mindoro. The Tri-Partite Wage Board, which includes representatives from workers, employers, and the government, will review all the suggestions and submit a final recommendation to the National Wage Board.

According to DOLE Regional Director Naomi Lyn Abellano, the wage adjustment could be announced as early as December 7, 2024.

This process could see the minimum wage of PHP 395—last raised by PHP 40 on December 7, 2023—adjusted once more to meet the demands of workers and accommodate regional economic conditions.