Wage Board Approves P50 Wage Hike in NCR Region
MANILA, Philippines — The regional wage board has approved a P50 wage hike in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) confirmed on Monday. This wage increase marks a significant step for workers in Metro Manila, aiming to improve their daily earnings amid rising living costs.
Under the new wage order, the daily minimum wage for the non-agriculture sector will rise from P645 to P695. Meanwhile, employees in agriculture, service, and retail establishments with 15 or fewer workers, as well as manufacturing firms with fewer than 10 employees, will see their minimum wage increase from P608 to P658.
Implementation and Impact of the Wage Hike
The wage board’s decision will take effect on July 18, benefiting approximately 1.2 million workers across the NCR. This adjustment comes just one day after the anniversary of the previous wage increase implemented on July 17, 2024, signaling a continuing effort to support workers’ financial stability.
Local leaders noted that the wage hike aims to address the pressing needs of workers struggling with inflation and rising prices of basic goods. Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized that the approval was unanimous by the NCR Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board through Wage Order No. 26.
Context and Economic Considerations
Although welcomed by workers, some economic experts have urged caution, warning about the possible ripple effects of wage increases on prices and employment. Nevertheless, the wage board’s decision reflects a balanced approach to meet workers’ demands while considering economic conditions.
For many workers, this wage hike provides much-needed relief and a chance to cope better with their daily expenses. As one employee shared, “Makatabang gyud ni sa among panginahanglan labi na sa mahal nga palaliton karon.” Local officials continue to monitor the impact of this wage increase to ensure it benefits both workers and businesses.
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