DOLE begins review of Metro Manila minimum wage

Minimum wage earners in Metro Manila may soon see a salary increase, as the government initiates a review of current wage levels, the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) announced.

Labour Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma confirmed that all 17 Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) across the Philippines have started the process of reviewing minimum wages, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to begin deliberations 60 days before the anniversary of the last wage order.

The move could benefit approximately four million minimum wage earners and an additional eight million employees through potential pay adjustments.

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While some labour groups continue to push for a legislated across-the-board wage increase, others are advocating for the adoption of a living wage standard. Leguesma noted that aside from wage board adjustments, employees have other avenues for securing salary improvements, including collective bargaining agreements.

To further support employment opportunities, DOLE will organise nationwide job fairs across 70 sites on May 1, Labour Day. More than 170,000 local and overseas jobs will be offered by over 2,000 employers. Selected beneficiaries will also receive livelihood assistance as part of broader labour support initiatives, reported Philstar.