Manila: Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday welcomed the PHP85 daily minimum wage increase for workers in the National Capital Region, calling it a "good start" but stressing the need for broader reforms to the wage-setting system.
According to Philippines News Agency, Hontiveros stated that the increase would provide relief to Metro Manila workers but emphasized that piecemeal adjustments are insufficient to address the long-term challenges facing workers, industries, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). She highlighted the necessity for wage policies that improve workers' living standards while enabling MSMEs to grow, innovate, and remain productive, particularly outside the NCR.
Hontiveros renewed her call for the passage of Senate Bill No. 210, or the proposed Fair Wages and Productivity Bill. This bill seeks to establish a two-track system: a catch-up wage increase for workers in larger, better-capitalized businesses and a support mechanism for MSMEs. The measure would also allow small businesses to receive temporary exemptions from mandated wage increases while streamlining procedures for registration, tax incentives, and minimum wage exemptions.
The bill proposes revising the composition of regional wage boards by making the Department of Labor and Employment the sole voting representative of national government agencies and adding two provincial governors in each region as voting members. Hontiveros mentioned the need for the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, local government officials, and Regional Development Councils to strengthen support programs for small enterprises.
She explained that the proposal would retain the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards while placing greater emphasis on productivity to help sustain rising incomes. The reforms aim to improve livelihoods across the country, not just in urban areas like Metro Manila.
Hontiveros also urged the 20th Congress to prioritize the Fair Wages and Productivity Bill when it opens its second regular session.
