AS LABOR Day approaches, progressive labor groups are intensifying their call for a ₱1,200 national minimum wage, citing the increasing cost of living and stagnant wage growth.
Rauf Sissay, representing Bayan Muna Partylist-Davao and Kilusang Mayo Uno-Southern Mindanao, said that since 2023, numerous progressive organizations have been advocating for this wage adjustment. He highlighted the economic hardships faced by workers and communities, exacerbated by rising inflation and the soaring prices of basic commodities.
“Tungod gina recognize natu ang kahimtang sa kasamtangan nga nagapadayon ang pagpit-os sa ekonomikanhon nga kahimtang sa atoang mga mamumuo ug kominidad nga labing igo sa inflation or grabeng pagsaka sa palaliton (Because we recognize the current situation, where the economic conditions of our workers and communities continue to be strained, especially those most affected by inflation or the sharp increase in prices),” he said in a media interview on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Despite these efforts, Sissay noted that the proposed wage hike remains pending in Congress. He urged the government to prioritize the legislated ₱200 across-the-board wage increase as an immediate solution to workers’ concerns.
Echoing this sentiment, Ramon Rusil of Nagkahiusang Mamumuo sa Philippines Japan Active Carbon-FDLO pointed out that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet daily needs, especially with the continuous rise in the cost of goods. He expressed disappointment over President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s lack of urgency in addressing the wage increase bill.
Labor groups cited data from the IBON Foundation, revealing that from 2000 to 2023, regional productivity increased by 62%, yet the minimum wage only saw a 9% rise. They argue that this disparity underscores the need for a substantial wage adjustment.
In the Davao Region, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) approved a ₱29 daily wage increase for private sector workers under Wage Order No. RB XI-23. Effective March 7, 2025, this adjustment raises the daily minimum wage to ₱510 for non-agriculture workers and ₱505 for those in the agriculture sector.
Additionally, domestic workers in the region received a wage increase under Wage Order No. RBXI-DW-03, effective March 6, 2024. The new monthly minimum wage is set at ₱6,000 in chartered cities and first-class municipalities, and ₱5,000 in other municipalities.
Despite these regional adjustments, labor groups argue that such increases are insufficient. They continue to advocate for a legislated national minimum wage of ₱1,200 to ensure a living wage for all Filipino workers. RGP