Senators React to ₱200 Daily Minimum Wage Increase
Several senators expressed mixed feelings following the House of Representatives’ approval of a bill mandating a ₱200 daily minimum wage increase. The lawmakers called for a bicameral conference committee to reconcile differences with the Senate’s earlier version, which recommended only a ₱100 wage hike. The discussion on the ₱200 daily minimum wage increase signals a critical moment for Filipino workers and the economy.
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri welcomed the House’s move, describing it as a vital lifeline for Filipino workers. “I always err on the side of the workers,” Zubiri said. “At this time, our labor force really needs financial support, not just cash aid, because they are working. This wage law will help them and their families.” He urged fellow senators to adopt the House’s version or quickly convene a bicameral conference before Congress adjourns. “Hopefully, we can tackle this in the next three days and finally pass the law.”
Balancing Labor Needs and Business Viability
Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito recognized the urgency of increasing wages but stressed the need to balance labor welfare with the survival of small and medium enterprises. “Whatever we can give to the laborers, let’s give,” Ejercito said. “But we have to ensure that businesses can survive this. It’s important that we don’t kill the goose that lays the golden egg.” He added that the House’s version was not yet extensively discussed in the Senate and suggested that a ₱150 compromise could be possible with more data.
Senator Joel Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment, advised caution. He explained that the Senate’s ₱100 wage hike bill was drafted after thorough consultations with labor and business groups. “We believe ₱100 is practical and manageable,” Villanueva said. “The ₱200 proposal is appealing, but it could be too burdensome for businesses. That’s ₱6,000 more per month per employee.”
Concerns Over Political and Economic Implications
Villanueva expressed concerns about potential political fallout if the ₱200 wage hike bill is adopted without careful review. “Let’s be honest — some might be setting this up for a veto by the President,” he warned. “If we adopt the ₱200, and the Palace finds it unsustainable, it could put the President in a difficult political position.” He also raised worries that the House’s sudden move might be a “knee-jerk” or populist reaction.
All three senators agreed that forming a bicameral conference committee remains the most logical step forward. Villanueva emphasized that there is still enough time to negotiate a balanced final bill before Congress adjourns. “What’s clear is that our workers need a raise. The only question now is how much, and how fast we can get it done without hurting the economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Malacañang clarified that President Marcos has yet to endorse or commit to signing the proposed ₱200 wage hike bill. The Palace awaits the results of bicameral discussions and a thorough review of the economic impact before making a decision.
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