PBBM open to wage hike talks – Palace

By Filane Mikee Cervantes, Philippine News Agency

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, said Marcos is not shutting the door on dialogue, particularly aimed at improving workers’ conditions. (PCO file photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is open to engaging in dialogue with labor groups pushing for wage hikes, as pending consultations are set to begin in Metro Manila by mid-May, Malacañang said on Friday.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, said Marcos is not shutting the door on dialogue, particularly aimed at improving workers’ conditions.

“Ang Pangulo po ay lagi pong bukas sa anuman pong diskusyon para po sa ikabubuti ng mga manggagawa at hindi po iyan isinasara ‘yung pintuan (The President is always open to any discussion for the welfare of workers and is not closing the door on that),” Castro said.

She said the labor and employer sectors should clearly communicate how and when such talks might happen to allow for productive dialogue.

“Kailangan lang din po siguro natin na masabi sa Pangulo kung papaano, kailan, para po magkaroon sila ng magandang pag-uusap (We probably just need to tell the President how and when, so they can have a good discussion),” she said.

Marcos said Thursday any proposal for a wage increase in the private sector must be carefully reviewed due to its broader impact on the economy, businesses, and employment.

“Sa usapin naman ng pagtaas ng suweldo, masarap pakinggan ang matatamis na mga pangako, ngunit ang mga ito ay may epekto sa paglago ng negosyo, trabaho, at ekonomiya (When it comes to salary increases, it’s nice to hear sweet promises, but they have an impact on business growth, jobs, and the economy),” Marcos said during the 123rd Labor Day celebration at the SMX Convention Center.

Regional wage boards continue to study conditions in their respective areas, he said, adding that his administration is committed to supporting workers.

According to the President, 28 wage orders have been approved across 16 regions since June 2024.

Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said preparations are underway for consultations between labor and employer groups in the National Capital Region (NCR).

DOLE-NCR Director Sarah Buena Mirasol said a public hearing is planned for June, and a new wage order could be issued by July.

The last minimum wage hike in Metro Manila took effect on July 17, 2024, bringing the daily rate to PHP645.