Minimum Wage Adjustments Continue Amid Legislative Pause
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) confirmed that minimum wage adjustments remain possible through ongoing evaluations by regional wage boards, even after Congress adjourned without approving the proposed legislated increase. DOLE Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez highlighted that the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) are actively conducting consultations and hearings nationwide.
“In fact, in the National Capital Region, the process is already underway, and we are hopeful that another round of assessment will determine whether a minimum wage increase is necessary and, if so, by how much,” Benavidez said. This shows that minimum wage adjustments remain a priority despite the legislative delay.
Legislative Process and DOLE’s Support
Benavidez acknowledged that Congress did not ratify the proposed wage hike before its sine die adjournment. However, he noted that similar wage increase proposals have been refiled in previous sessions, indicating ongoing legislative interest. “We respect the legislative process and will continue to take part in it. As part of the executive branch, we can offer our views and technical inputs to help ensure that proposed measures are crafted more effectively,” he added.
DOLE remains prepared to support lawmakers by providing technical advice aimed at shaping responsive wage-related laws. This partnership seeks to balance the needs of workers and the economic environment.
Efforts to Boost Employment Alongside Wage Reviews
Along with the wage deliberations, DOLE is intensifying efforts to increase employment opportunities nationwide. On June 12, the agency organized 49 job fairs across the country in celebration of the 126th Independence Day, offering more than 150,000 job openings for both local and overseas employment.
Benavidez explained that personnel from the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) carefully evaluated applicants during registration. They then referred jobseekers to at least five companies that matched their qualifications to “increase the probability of them getting hired.” Typically, about 15 percent of applicants secure jobs on the spot, while others become near-hires pending final interviews or submission of requirements.
Long-Term Goals for Employment Growth
DOLE emphasized that regular job fairs not only connect jobseekers with employers but also help reduce unemployment and promote business expansion. “We are striving to encourage more businesses to open and more investors to expand their operations so they can generate more employment opportunities—better jobs with better pay,” Benavidez stated.
The department’s dual approach of reviewing minimum wage adjustments and promoting employment aims to strengthen the labor market and improve worker welfare despite the absence of immediate legislative action.
For more news and updates on minimum wage adjustments, visit Filipinokami.com.