Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has vowed to continue monitoring wage and income trends, saying that it is sensitive to workers' sentiments regarding higher wages and income.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a statement, the agency noted that its direct contribution in addressing this concern is through the annual minimum wage adjustments of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) for lower-paid workers.

The DOLE was reacting to the December 2025 OCTA Research Tugon ng Masa survey results, which showed higher wages and salaries as the top national concern of Filipinos.

The department said that as of the survey time, 14 wage orders granting increases of PHP20 to PHP100 per day to minimum wage earners in the private sector had been issued. Davao and Bicol regions are also set to commence their wage determination process this January and February.

Meanwhile, 11 wage orders were issued granting a PHP300 to PHP2,000 increase to the monthly minimum wage of domestic workers. This January, a wage order was issued granting an PHP800 increase to the monthly minimum wage of domestic workers in the National Capital Region, which will become effective on Feb. 7.

Apart from the annual minimum wage adjustments, various programs help workers earn higher incomes. The National Wages and Productivity Commission provides free training programs and technical assistance to enterprises. Meanwhile, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority offers certification programs that enhance workers' skills and employability.