RTWPB-7 holds public hearing on wage hike

CEBU, Philippines — The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-Region VII (RTWPB-7) recently hosted a public consultation to gather essential input for setting or adjusting the minimum wage in Central Visayas.

The consultation drew around 60 participants, including labor leaders, business representatives, and government officials. Stakeholders aired their views and recommendations on a proposed wage hike, underscoring the wide-ranging impact of wage policy.

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Director and RTWPB-7 Chairperson Atty. Roy L. Buenafe emphasized the value of inclusive dialogue in decision-making.

“This consultation aims to understand stakeholders’ sentiments and gauge their reactions—a mechanism for gathering inputs that may inform the wage deliberation process,” Buenafe said.

Labor Sector Representative Antonio Cuizon described the event as a vital forum for meaningful exchange between workers and employers.

“This opportunity ensures wage board members reach the best possible decision by hearing both sides,” Cuizon said.

Management Sector Representative Dr. Philip Tan underscored the need to base wage policies on real-world economic conditions.

“Consultations like these allow us to listen and arrive at informed, equitable decisions,” he added.

To provide economic context, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) OIC-Regional Director Wilma Perante presented the latest Labor Force Survey, comparing labor and economic trends in Central Visayas with other regions.

“The Labor Force Survey is crucial for shaping labor, economic, and social policy. It supports informed decisions and promotes inclusive economic development,” Perante said.

RTWPB-7 Board Secretary Atty. Evita G. Mendoza-Balane also outlined prevailing minimum wage rates nationwide, offering a comparative overview to guide potential adjustments.

The open forum revealed contrasting views. Nine labor leaders strongly advocated for a substantial wage increase, stressing that small adjustments fall short of achieving the “living wage” mandated by law.

They noted the lapse of the proposed P200 wage hike bill in Congress, amplifying calls for regional action.

Meanwhile, five business group representatives cautioned against steep hikes, warning that such moves could hurt local economies, deter investors, and lead to job losses.

Despite the divergence of perspectives, RTWPB-7 assured stakeholders that all contributions during the consultation would be carefully considered in its upcoming wage deliberations. — (FREEMAN)