LABOR groups may already push for an increase in their minimum wage except in Cagayan Valley and Soccsksargen.
In a virtual press briefing, National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) Executive Director Maria Criselda Sy said it has been more than a year since the last wage orders were approved in 15 regions.
She said Cagayan Valley will have its anniversary date on March 16 while the latest wage order in Socsksargen will reach one year on February 2.
Under the law, no petition for wage increase may be entertained within the 12-month period from effectivity of the last wage order.
Sy's announcement comes amid calls by different labor groups for an increase in salaries amid the skyrocketing prices of basic commodities.
No wage hike petitions have been filed yet before any Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
Sy, however, said the NWPC is already allowing the use of blended methods in conducting public consultation for possible wage adjustments.
"Our procedure on minimum wage determination is designed to be conducted face to face, particularly consultations and public hearings. That's why these were suspended amid the pandemic," she said.
"We have simplified our minimum wage setting procedures. We have provided fornthe use of the digital platforms for the public consultations and hearings to ensure the continuity of services of our regional boards despite the community restrictions," Sy added.
Similarly, she said they have directed regional wage boards to monitor the socio-economic situation amid the pandemic. (HDT / SunStar Philippines)