In a significant move aimed at bolstering the livelihoods of workers, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board 6 (RTWPB-6) has officially sanctioned a daily minimum wage hike of between P40 to P45 for the private sector in Region 6. This decision, confirmed by RTWPB-6 chairman Sixto Rodriguez Jr., is intended to support employees while ensuring that businesses remain operational during economically challenging times.
The wage increase is part of Wage Order 30, which was approved on October 21, 2023. This adjustment affects all workers in Western Visayas, encompassing Negros Occidental and Bacolod City. Specifically, agricultural workers will see a P45 boost in their daily minimum wage, elevating it from P520 to P565. Meanwhile, non-agricultural workers in larger establishments (with more than 10 employees) will receive a P40 increase, bringing their daily wage from P550 to P590. Non-agricultural workers in smaller businesses will also experience a P40 rise, increasing their wage from P525 to P565.
Additionally, the monthly wage for domestic workers, known locally as kasambahays, will rise by P500, adjusting it from P6,500 to P7,000. This change underscores the RTWPB-6’s commitment to improving the financial standing of various worker categories amidst inflationary pressures.
Despite requests from employers to postpone the wage increase, Rodriguez affirmed that the new wage order is essential to protect jobs without compromising business sustainability. He mentioned that this decision took into account inflation rates and the purchasing power of the peso, while also respecting the employers' ability to comply with the new wage standards.
Rodriguez emphasized that the wage hike decision was made based on thorough consultations and data analysis. Resource speakers from relevant government agencies were involved to ensure that the decision was transparent and evidence-based. The necessary consultations and hearings carried out as part of the 2026 wage review included eight stakeholder meetings and four public consultations, with the final one taking place in Malay, Aklan, on October 20, 2023.
Following the approval, the RTWPB-6 submitted the wage order to the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) for review on October 22. Rodriguez stated that the NWPC will assess the order to ensure it meets legal requirements and standards.
The new wage order is anticipated to come into effect by mid-November 2023, pending NWPC's approval and subsequent publication of the order. Rodriguez indicated that the formal announcement could be made by a secretary upon approval, followed by immediate publication that will activate the new wages after a 15-day period.
This initiative marks the latest effort by RTWPB-6 to adapt to the evolving economic landscape and support both workers and businesses in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range of the approved daily minimum wage increase in Region 6?
The approved daily minimum wage increase in Region 6 ranges from P40 to P45.
When was the new wage order approved?
The new wage order was approved on October 21, 2023.
How will the wage increase affect agricultural and non-agricultural workers?
Agricultural workers will see a daily increase of P45, raising their minimum wage to P565, while non-agricultural workers in larger establishments will receive a P40 increase to P590, and those in smaller establishments will also get a P40 increase to P565.
Reporting by Mc Esplanada for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.