President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Orders Review of Minimum Wage Rates
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued a directive to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board to review the minimum wage rates in every region. The directive was given during the Labor Day event in Malacañang, where President Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to champion the rights of Filipino workers under the “Bagong Pilipinas” or “New Philippines” initiative.
In his speech, President Marcos called upon the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board to initiate a timely review of the minimum wage in their respective regions. He emphasized the need to consider factors such as inflation and other relevant considerations. The review is expected to be completed within 60 days prior to the anniversary of the latest wage order.
President Marcos also urged the National Wages and Productivity Commission to review its rules to ensure that the boards are able to maintain a regular and predictable schedule of wage review, issuance, and effectivity. This measure aims to reduce uncertainty and enhance fairness for all stakeholders involved.
Current Minimum Wage Rates in the Philippines
The daily minimum wages in the Philippines vary per region and have averaged P354.32 from 1989 until 2024. Metro Manila had the highest minimum wage rate last year, reaching P610. It is important to note that the last time Congress passed a law increasing the national salary was in 1989 when the wage rationalization act raised the minimum wage by P25 from P64.
At the House of Representatives, separate bills have been filed to increase the wages of private sector workers by P150 to P750. Another bill mandates a P33,000-a-month entry wage for government employees. Meanwhile, senators have approved a bill to increase the daily minimum wage in the private sector by P100 on the second reading.
President Marcos Calls for Job Creation Measures
In addition to the wage review, President Marcos urged Congress to pass several measures for job creation. One of these measures is the Create More Law, which seeks to impose a 20 percent corporate income tax on local and foreign corporations under the enhanced deduction income tax regime.
During the Labor Day event, President Marcos also led the awarding of outstanding workers and unveiled the Department of Labor and Employment’s masterplan for the soon-to-be-built Workers’ Rehabilitation Center Complex. He also honored the golden anniversary of the Labor Code of the Philippines (LCP), which was promulgated during the leadership of his father, President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
Furthermore, President Marcos witnessed the Philippine Postal Corp.’s launch of commemorative stamps for the 50th anniversary of the signing of the LCP on May 1, 1974. He described the LCP as one of the most enduring pieces of social legislation in the Philippines, borne out of the vision for development, employment, and social justice.
President Marcos’ Commitment to Filipino Workers
President Marcos proudly reaffirmed the government’s commitment to champion the rights of Filipino workers in pursuit of development and prosperity. He expressed gratitude and recognition for the remarkable contributions of Filipino workers both in the country and abroad, describing them as beacons of hope and important pillars of the country’s foundation.
In a separate Labor Day statement, President Marcos vowed to usher in an era of greater prosperity where opportunities abound. He emphasized the government’s continuous support for the working class and its commitment to uphold the principles of fairness, dignity, and equity across all workspaces.
Under the banner of the “Bagong Pilipinas” initiative, President Marcos aims to create an environment that fosters growth and empowers Filipino workers to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Source: The Manila Times
