CITY OF SAN FERNANDO---The Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) began its series of public consultations with concern groups for this year’s review of the existing minimum wage in Central Luzon. The dialogue was participated in by 76 representatives from various sectors in the Pampanga, 108 in Bulacan, and 70 in Bataan. The public consultation is an initial step in ensuring equitable wages for workers in the region. “The public consultations provide an opportunity for stakeholders, labor unions, employers, and employees to voice out their concerns and insights and contribute to the decision-making process. The valuable inputs and feedback from the sectors involved will be thoroughly considered in crafting a comprehensive and balanced minimum wage adjustment proposal,” said DOLE Central Luzon Director and RTWPB Chairperson Geraldine Panlilio. The RTWPB is also set conduct public consultations in the provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora. RTWPBs are mandated by law to periodically assess wage rates and conduct continuing studies used in the determination of the minimum wage rates applicable in the region or industry. Interested parties are advised to coordinate with their respective DOLE Field Offices or reach RTWPB through its official communication hotlines.