Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced Thursday that consultations on a possible wage hike for minimum wage earners in Metro Manila will begin mid-May. DOLE-National Capital Region (NCR) Director Sarah Buena Mirasol said preparations are underway for discussions between labor and employer groups regarding a potential salary adjustment for private-sector workers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mirasol stated that consultations between workers and employers will commence in May, with a public hearing scheduled for June. The announcement was made during the Labor Day job fair at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. If the deliberations proceed smoothly and result in a decision, a new wage order could be issued as early as July.

The last wage hike in the NCR took effect on July 17, 2024, setting the current minimum wage at PHP645.