Senator Advocates Executive Labor Commission Creation
Senator Alan Cayetano has renewed his urgent call for establishing an executive labor commission to tackle the persistent wage disparities across the Philippines. This move aims to provide a targeted and effective approach to wage policy, officials reported.
The senator emphasized the need for the executive labor commission after a Senate labor and employment panel convened on Thursday, September 4, to discuss the national minimum wage, wage increases, and the push for a living wage. Community members noted the ongoing challenges in addressing wage issues through traditional legislative means.
Executive Labor Commission to Craft Industry-Specific Wage Policies
Cayetano proposed the Executive-Legislative Labor Commission, or LabCom, under Senate Bill No. 104. This commission would develop wage policies tailored to specific industries and regions instead of depending on broad and often delayed wage hikes legislated by Congress, sources said.
“‘That’s the problem with legislative wage hikes, there’s no consensus. The LabCom won’t speak in general terms, it will come out with industry-specific solutions,” Cayetano said in Filipino, highlighting the commission’s focused approach.
Defining a Living Wage for Filipino Families
The proposed measure clearly defines a living wage as the income required for a family to cover both food and non-food expenses, with additional allowance for savings or investments that ensure social security. This definition aims to help families maintain a decent standard of living beyond mere subsistence, taking into account their physiological, social, and other essential needs, local leaders noted.
Inclusive Commission Composition for Balanced Wage Standards
The LabCom will include representatives from both the House and Senate, along with key government agencies such as the National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Department of Migrant Workers. It will also involve members from the private sector and labor groups, officials reported.
This diverse composition is designed to create fair and sustainable wage standards that reflect the unique conditions of various industries and regions. Cayetano stressed that such inclusivity is crucial to achieving a just society.
Ending Economic Migration Through Fair Wage Policies
“This will help end the endless stream of Filipinos who are forced to leave their homes and families for what they hope would be greener economic pastures,” the senator said, underscoring the social impact of equitable wage reforms.
By instituting the executive labor commission, the government could pave the way for more responsive and effective wage policies that uplift Filipino workers and reduce economic migration, community members observed.
For more news and updates on wage disparities, visit Filipinokami.com.
